What is the Kondo? A thorough explanation of the history, structure, and worship methods of the main hall, the heart of temple architecture.
Basic Knowledge of the Kondo
Definition and Role of the Kondo
The Kondo (金堂) is the central building in a Buddhist temple where the principal image is enshrined. The name “Kondo” originates from the fact that the interior is adorned with gold.
It is the most important building in a temple complex and functions as a place where monks and believers perform worship and chanting. While it may be called “Hondo,” “Butsuden,” or “Chudo” depending on the sect and era, the name “Kondo” is common, especially in ancient temples built from the Nara period to the Heian period.
Historical Changes of the Kondo
From the Asuka period to the Nara period, the Kondo was built as the center of the Buddhist complex. Kondo from this period are characterized by a style influenced by China and the Korean Peninsula, featuring a multi-story structure (like a two-story building) and a magnificent mokoshi (a type of eaves).
From the Heian period onward, with the development of esoteric Buddhist temples, the forms of the main hall (Kondo) also diversified. In Tendai and Shingon Buddhist temples, the terms “Chudo” (central hall) and “Hondo” (main hall) became more common, while in Zen Buddhist temples, they came to be called “Butsuden” (Buddha hall).
From the Kamakura to the Muromachi period, architectural styles such as Zen style (Tang style), Japanese style, and Daibutsu style (Indian style) coexisted, and Kondo reflecting the characteristics of each sect were built.
Representative Kondo Architecture
Horyu-ji Temple Kondo (Nara Prefecture)
Known as the world’s oldest wooden building, the Horyu-ji Temple Kondo is believed to have been built in the late 7th to early 8th century. It is designated a National Treasure and forms the core of the World Heritage Site “Buddhist Monuments in the Horyu-ji Area.”
Architectural Features:
- A two-story building with five bays in length and four bays in width.
- A unique structure with a skirt roof on the first story.
- Columns with entasis (a curve in the middle).
- Decorative brackets using cloud-shaped brackets (kumoto) and cloud-shaped corbels (kumohijiki).
Household Buddhas:
- Shakyamuni Triad (Asuka period, National Treasure)
- Seated Yakushi Nyorai (Asuka period, National Treasure)
- Seated Amida Nyorai (Kamakura period, Important Cultural Property)
- Standing Four Heavenly Kings (Hakuhō period, National Treasure)
Todai-ji Temple’s Main Hall (Great Buddha Hall) (Nara Prefecture)
The Great Buddha Hall of Todai-ji Temple, one of the world’s largest wooden buildings, is officially called the Main Hall. The current building was rebuilt in the Edo period (1709), but it is approximately two-thirds the size of the original (8th century) structure.
Architectural Features:
- Approximately 57 meters wide, 50 meters deep, and 49 meters high
- A powerful structure based on the Daibutsu-style (Tenjiku-style) architecture
- Structural reinforcement by massive rainbow beams and tie beams
Enshrined Buddha:
- Seated statue of Vairocana Buddha (Nara and Edo period, National Treasure) – Commonly known as the “Great Buddha of Nara,” approximately 15 meters tall
Yakushi-ji Temple Main Hall (Nara Prefecture)
This main hall, reconstructed in 1976, recreates the style of the Hakuhō period. It is a valuable building that revives the appearance of the temple at the time of its founding (8th century).
Enshrined Buddhas:
- Yakushi Triad (Asuka period, National Treasure) – A representative example of Hakuho period sculpture in Japan
Toshodai-ji Temple Main Hall (Nara Prefecture)
This main hall, built in the late Nara period (late 8th century), is a National Treasure building that embodies the finest of Tenpyo architecture. As the central building of the head temple of the Ritsu sect founded by Jianzhen, it possesses a simple yet dignified beauty.
Architectural Features:
- A single-story building with seven bays in length and four bays in width.
- A typical structure of the Tenpyo style.
- A magnificent facade supported by eight columns.
Enshrined Buddhas:
- Seated statue of Vairocana Buddha (Nara period, National Treasure)
- Standing statue of Yakushi Nyorai (Nara period, National Treasure)
- Standing statue of Senju Kannon (Nara period, National Treasure)
Murō-ji Temple Main Hall (Nara Prefecture)
This main hall, built in the early Heian period (9th century), is a National Treasure building with elements of the kakezukuri (suspended construction) style characteristic of mountain temples. It is the central building of Murō-ji Temple, known as the “Women’s Kōya.”
Enshrined Buddhas:
- Standing Statue of Shakyamuni Buddha (Heian period, National Treasure)
- Standing Statue of Eleven-Headed Kannon (Heian period, National Treasure)
- Standing Statue of Yakushi Nyorai (Heian period, Important Cultural Property)
Architectural Structure and Characteristics of the Main Hall
Basic Structural Elements
Foundation Platform:
The main hall is usually built on a stone foundation platform. This indicates the status of the building and also serves the practical purpose of protecting the building from dampness. Stairs are often located in the center of the front, and worshippers enter the hall from here.
Columns and Brackets:
Thick cylindrical columns support the building, and complex brackets (tokyo) are arranged on top of the columns. These brackets serve both a structural role in distributing the weight of the roof and a decorative role in adorning the building.
Roof:
The roof of the main hall (Kondo) is generally of the irimoya style (hip-and-gable roof) and is covered with traditional roof tiles (hongawara-buki). In the case of multi-story buildings, the roof style may differ between the upper and lower floors.
Interior Space Composition
Inner Sanctuary (Naijin):
This is the most sacred space where the principal image is enshrined. General visitors are usually not allowed to enter. The principal image is enshrined on a pedestal called a shumidan, and is often surrounded by attendant Buddhas and statues of the Four Heavenly Kings.
Outer Sanctuary (Gejin):
This is the space where worshippers pay their respects. A railing or lattice separates it from the inner sanctuary, and worshippers pray to the principal image from here.
Shumidan (Shumidan):
This is a platform for enshrining Buddha statues, symbolizing Mount Sumeru in the Buddhist worldview. Often adorned with intricate carvings and coloring, it possesses artistic value in itself.
Points to Note When Visiting the Main Hall
Basic Etiquette for Worship
1. Preparation Before Entering the Hall:
- Bow when passing through the main gate.
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin (hold the ladle in your right hand and wash your left hand → hold the ladle in your left hand and wash your right hand → hold the ladle in your right hand, receive water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth → stand the ladle upright and wash the handle).
- Bow before entering the main hall.
2. Etiquette Inside the Hall:
- If you remove your shoes before entering, arrange them neatly.
- Do not enter the inner sanctuary; worship quietly from the outer sanctuary.
- Photography is often prohibited, so check beforehand.
- Refrain from loud conversations and maintain silence.
3. Method of Worship:
- Join your hands in prayer before the main image and bow once or three times (bow deeply three times).
- Make a wish silently in your heart, or recite a sutra such as the Heart Sutra.
- If offering a monetary donation, quietly place it in the donation box (do not throw it).
- Finally, clasp your hands together and bow once more before leaving.
Points of Interest During Your Visit
Observation of Architectural Style:
- Pay attention to the entasis (bulge) of the columns and the complexity of the brackets.
- Observe the curvature of the roof and the depth of the eaves.
- Appreciate the carvings on the doors and transoms.
Appreciation of Buddhist Statues:
- Pay attention to the facial expression and hand gestures of the main deity.
- Observe the decorative beauty of the halo and pedestal.
- Confirm the arrangement of the attendant Buddhas and the Four Heavenly Kings statues.
Interior Decoration:
- Ceiling and wall paintings (if present).
- Carvings and coloring of the altar.
- Arrangement of lanterns and flower offerings.
Special Viewing Opportunities
Many temples offer special viewings of their inner sanctuaries and hidden Buddha statues, which are usually closed to the public:
Spring and Autumn Special Viewings:
Many temples open their inner sanctuaries and Buddha statues, normally closed to the public, once or twice a year. At Horyu-ji Temple, the Kannon statue in the Yumedono Hall is unveiled every spring and autumn.
Gokaicho (Public Opening):
Some temples unveil their hidden Buddha statues only once every few years to several decades. The Gokaicho at Zenko-ji Temple (Nagano Prefecture) is known as a major event held once every seven years.
Annual Events:
Special viewings may be held during Buddhist events such as the first three days of the New Year, Setsubun (Bean-Throwing Festival), Hana Matsuri (Flower Festival, April 8th), and Obon (Buddhist All Souls’ Day).
Benefits Obtained at the Main Hall
Main Benefits Based on the Principal Deity
Main Hall with Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha):
- Healing from illness and longevity
- Good health and protection from disease
- Healing of mind and body
- Examples: Yakushi-ji Main Hall, Murō-ji Main Hall
Main Hall with Shakyamuni Buddha:
- Attainment of enlightenment and improvement of wisdom
- Peace of mind
- Guidance to the right path
- Examples: Hōryū-ji Main Hall, Murō-ji Main Hall
Main Hall with Amida Nyorai (Amitabha Buddha):
- Rebirth in paradise
- Ancestor worship
- Peace of mind
- Example: Byōdō-in Phoenix Hall (Amida Hall)
Main Hall with Kannon Bodhisattva:
- Fulfillment of all wishes
- Protection from misfortune and disaster
- Conception and safe childbirth
- Example: Hase-dera Temple Main Hall
Golden Hall with the Vairocana Buddha as its principal image:
- National peace and security, world peace
- Acquisition of cosmic wisdom
- Fulfillment of all wishes
- Example: Todai-ji Temple Golden Hall (Great Buddha Hall), Toshodai-ji Temple Golden Hall
Spiritual Effects of Worship
Purification of the Mind:
By facing the Buddha statue in the tranquil Golden Hall, you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and calm your mind.
Dialogue with History:
By touching architecture and Buddha statues with over a thousand years of history, you can experience a spirituality that transcends time.
Aesthetic Experience:
In a space where architectural beauty and sculptural beauty are fused, you can deeply appreciate the traditional Japanese aesthetic.
Access Information to the Main Main Hall
Horyuji Temple Main Hall (Ikaruga-cho, Ikoma-gun, Nara Prefecture)
Access by Train:
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from JR Yamatoji Line “Horyuji Station,” or immediately after alighting at the “Horyuji Monzen” bus stop.
- 5 minutes on foot from the “Horyuji-mae” bus stop, accessible from Kintetsu Kashihara Line “Tsutsui Station.”
Access by Car:
- Approximately 10 minutes from Nishimeihan Expressway “Horyuji IC.”
- Parking: Town-operated parking available (paid).
Visiting Hours:
- February 22nd to November 3rd: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- November 4th to February 21st: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Admission Fee:
- General: 1,500 yen
- Elementary school students: 750 yen
Todai-ji Temple’s Main Hall (Great Buddha Hall) (Nara City, Nara Prefecture)
Access by Train:
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Kintetsu Nara Station on the Kintetsu Nara Line
- Approximately 25 minutes on foot from Nara Station on the JR Yamatoji Line, or 5 minutes on foot from the Daibutsu-den Kasuga Taisha-mae bus stop
Access by Car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Horai Interchange on the Daini-Hanna Expressway
- Parking: Numerous prefectural and private parking lots available (paid)
Visiting Hours:
- April to October: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- November to March: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Admission Fee:
- Adults: 600 yen
- Elementary school students: 300 yen
Yakushi-ji Temple’s Main Hall (Nara City, Nara Prefecture)
Access by Train:
- A short walk from Nishinokyo Station on the Kintetsu Kashihara Line
Access by Car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Horai Interchange on the Daini-Hanna Expressway
- Parking: Available (Paid)
Visiting Hours:
- 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
Admission Fee:
- Adults: 1,100 yen
- Junior and Senior High School Students: 700 yen
- Elementary School Students: 300 yen
Toshodai-ji Temple Main Hall (Nara City, Nara Prefecture)
Access by Train:
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Nishinokyo Station on the Kintetsu Kashihara Line
Access by Car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Horai Interchange on the Daini-Hanna Expressway
- Parking: Available (Paid)
Visiting Hours:
- 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
Admission Fee:
- Adults: 1,000 yen
- Junior and Senior High School Students: 400 yen
- Elementary School Students: 200 yen
Muroji Temple Main Hall (Uda City, Nara Prefecture)
Access by Train:
- 5-minute walk from the “Muroji” bus stop after taking a bus from Kintetsu Osaka Line “Muroguchi-Ono Station”
Access by Car:
- Approximately 30 minutes from Meihan National Highway “Hari IC”
- Parking: Available (Paid)
Visiting Hours:
- April 1st to November 30th: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- December 1st to March 31st: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Admission Fee:
- Adults: 600 yen
- Children: 400 yen
Notes and Manners for Visiting the Main Hall
Clothing and Items to Bring
Appropriate Clothing:
- Avoid revealing clothing and dress modestly.
- Even in summer, it is preferable to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- In winter, the inside of the temple can get cold, so please take precautions against the cold.
What to bring:
- Please leave large luggage in a coin locker or leave it at the temple office.
- Note that even if you can bring a camera, photography is often prohibited.
- Bringing prayer beads will allow for a more respectful visit.
Prohibited Actions
Prohibited Actions Inside the Temple:
- Eating and drinking (please hydrate outside)
- Smoking
- Loud conversations
- Use of mobile phones (please set to silent mode)
- Touching Buddha statues or architecture
- Unauthorized photography
Other Notes:
- Pets are generally prohibited (except for guide dogs, etc.)
- Shoes are strictly prohibited inside the temple (if specified)
- Please be considerate of other visitors.
For those requiring special consideration
Visiting in a wheelchair:
Many old temples have many steps, making wheelchair access difficult. It is recommended to inquire with the temple office in advance. Some temples, such as the Todai-ji Great Buddha Hall, have ramps and wheelchair-accessible restrooms.
For the elderly:
Many temples have stairs leading to the main hall (Kondo), so please wear comfortable shoes. Some temples also have rest areas.
Summary: The Significance of Visiting the Main Hall
The main hall (Kondo) is not merely a tourist attraction, but a sacred space that has attracted the faith of people for over a thousand years. Visiting the main hall, which embodies the finest architectural techniques and Buddhist art passed down from ancient times, is a valuable opportunity to experience Japanese history and culture.
Through worshipping the main image, you can find peace of mind, and by appreciating the beauty of the architecture and Buddha statues, you can feel spiritual richness. By observing proper etiquette and manners, and taking time to quietly contemplate the main hall, you will gain a profound experience unlike anything you would find in everyday life.
When visiting Nara or Kyoto, be sure to take the time to visit the main hall and feel its solemn atmosphere and the weight of its history.
