On the road to Todai-ji. ABOVE: The Nandai-mon (Great Southern Gate) is the main entrance to Todai-ji. Within the gate stand two guardian gods (Nio), which were being restored. Todai-ji is a very famous temple that was founded in the year 745. Unfortunately, it also symbolises the tourist trap mentality that is widespread across Nara and especially Kyoto. I was not prepared to pay 500 Yen just to walk through a door to see a dusty bronze statue. Pictures of the exterior, however, are below.
The pictures above are of the grounds surrounding Todai-ji. Peace at last, and not a dumb deer in site. ABOVE LEFT & RIGHT: Many old trees are in this area, and I was struck by the patterns of the root bark. It's not often you see roots like this, and the Japanese have an enormous respect for the trees.
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