1.
main hall of a Buddhist temple
The primary building of a Buddhist temple where the principal image of the Buddha is enshrined. It is the central structure for worship and ceremonies.
本堂でお参りをした。
I prayed at the main hall of the temple.
本堂は国宝に指定されている。
The main hall is designated as a national treasure.
修復工事を終えた本堂が、美しい姿を取り戻した。
The main hall, having completed restoration work, has regained its beautiful appearance.
USAGE:
本堂 is used specifically for Buddhist temples. When visiting temples in Japan, it is the main building where visitors go to pray. Major temple main halls, such as those at 清水寺 or 東大寺, are important cultural landmarks.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 本堂にお参りする (to pray at the main hall)
- 本堂の前 (in front of the main hall)
- 本堂の修復 (restoration of the main hall)
SIMILAR WORDS:
Shinto shrines use 本殿 (main sanctuary) or 拝殿 (worship hall) instead of 本堂. 金堂 is an alternative name for the main hall used in some older temple traditions.