Ringing in the New Year at Tōdai-ji

Although I have already lived in Nara a number of years, I have yet to spend the Holidays here, especially during New Year's Eve.  As I happened to finally be in town this year, I decided to make a visit to Tōdai-ji to witness the ringing of the bell at the start of the New Year.  Having seen this event on TV before I have always wanted to see in person.  It was definitely a nice change of pace from fireworks, champagne or watching Kohaku on TV.