A Temple Founded by Ganjin, Who Brought Buddhism to Japan
Toshodaiji was founded by the Chinese monk Ganjin, who, after enduring many hardships, finally arrived in Japan at the invitation of Emperor Shomu.
After arriving, Ganjin spent five years at Todai-ji Temple to institutionalize the system of bestowing Buddhist precepts (ordination) at the Kaidan-in (Ordination Hall). Upon retiring from Todai-ji, he was granted the former residence of Prince Niitabe (the seventh son of Emperor Tenmu).
There, he established a teaching and ordination center called "Toritsu Shodai."
Supporters of Ganjin donated buildings such as his residence, dormitories, warehouses, a dining hall, a lecture hall for teaching, and a temporary main hall (Kondo) to enshrine the principal image of worship. Even after Ganjin’s passing, the Main Hall and East Pagoda were constructed.
By the early Heian period, the entire temple complex was completed, and the name was changed from "Toritsu Shodai" to "Toshodaiji."
