Nigatsu-do
Nigatsu-do is a hillside hall within the Todai-ji temple complex, famous for the Omizutori fire ritual held each March, when huge flaming torches are swung from its wooden veranda showering sparks over the crowd below, in a purification ceremony with over 1,250 years of unbroken history. Outside that specific event, the veranda offers one of the best free viewpoints in Nara, looking out over the rooftops of Todai-ji and the city beyond.
It's a short but worthwhile uphill detour from the main Todai-ji hall, especially valuable for the view alone even for visitors who won't be there for the March ceremony.
Nigatsu-do FAQs
An annual fire ritual held each March at Nigatsu-do, where large torches are swung from the hall's veranda showering sparks over onlookers, part of a purification ceremony with over 1,250 years of continuous history.
No, the grounds are free to visit.
A wide view over the rooftops of Todai-ji's main hall and out toward the city, considered one of Nara's best free viewpoints.
It's a short uphill walk east of the main hall, part of the same overall temple complex.
About 20-30 minutes, longer during the March Omizutori events.
Reviews/Comments
No comments yet — be the first.