Nanto Shichi Daiji

Nanto Shichi Daiji (南都七大寺), literally "the seven great temples of Nanto (synonym of Nara)" is a historical common name generally referring to the powerful and influential seven Buddhist temples located in Nara. Although as to which temples were included under this naming has fluctuated as there were rise and fall in their power, it was the followings at early stage, which are all originally built by imperial order^[1]

• Daian-ji (大安寺)
• Gangō-ji (元興寺)
• Hōryū-ji (法隆寺) (located off the border of today Nara, in the town of Ikaruga, Nara)
• Kōfuku-ji (興福寺)
• Saidai-ji (西大寺)
• Tōdai-ji (東大寺)
• Yakushi-ji (薬師寺)

Sometimes the temples were called "the fifteen great temples of Nanto" too, including other prestigious temples such as Tōshōdai-ji (唐招提寺) and Hokke-ji (法華寺).

See also

• For an explanation of terms concerning Japanese Buddhism, Japanese Buddhist art, and Japanese Buddhist temple architecture, see the Glossary of Japanese Buddhism.

References

1. ^ "七大寺日記 Shichi Daiji Nikki (A Diary on the Seven Great Temples)" (in Japanese). http://www.narahaku.go.jp/meihin/syoseki/095.html. Retrieved 2007-03-22. ^{[dead link]} This book is a collection of travel records to the seven great temples in Nara, published in Heian Period. A copy of 13th century is shown at Nara National Museum. Designated National Treasure.