It's one of the grand temples that I saw in Japan... Huge, despite the fact the size shrunk over 2 rounds of reconstruction. I think I missed the Nandai-mon Gate (mentioned in the map) or was that the "natural looking gate" that comes with original timber look? There isn't elaborate painting of the pillars - the timber simple gave that original & simple religious look.
There are similarities and differences of the Japanese temple structure as compared to the Chinese! At least, the immediate difference spotted is the 2 'corners' on the roof of the temple. Instead of the dragon heads (which are very common in amongst the Chinese structures), we saw "fish" heads!!! hahaha... not ordinary fish, ok! (Take a closer look at the picture I took at Osaka Castle). These golden ornaments (known as shibi in Japanese) were believe to protect the building from catching fires.
Inside the temple housed the Great Buddha Vairocana (15m high) seated on a lotus pedestal, while situated outside the hall was Pindula which is believed to have miracle powers to relieve pain if one rubs the corresponding part of his body. Well, Tomoko put it across humorously, he was sent out of the hall because he was so clever and not paying attention in the teaching! Hey, that reminds us of sending the hyperactive students out of class!!! Hahaha...
Tomoko highlighted to us the 4 colours that are associated to temples (in Japan) (not sure if it applies to others...): White, Black, Red and Green. Think there's one more colour... ah!!! can't remember what' it is... is it golden colour? Hm...
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