Emperor+Shomu

Emperor Shomu Tenno, who lived from 701-756, was the 45th emperor of Japan. He reigned from March 4th, 724- August 19th, 749. He was young when his father died, so before him, Empresses Gemmei and Gensho took to the throne in his stead. Once he came of age, he assumed rule. He was known as the first emperor who married a woman not born into royalty - Empress Komyo. They both were Buddhists.

He ordered the making of a structure, 16 meters high and called Vairocahna Buddha, wanting it to mimic Japan's bureaucracy. Often times, he was blamed for using up the country's supply of precious metals and bronze. He ended up spending large amounts of money on previously existing monasteries and temples. In 741, he founded a branch monastery and nunnery in each province.