Takakai Kubo has officially taken on the role of the 90th elder of Toshodaiji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Nara City, Japan, founded by the monk Ganjin who overcame hardships to come from China. In a recent press conference, Kubo expressed his commitment to honor the temple's long-standing traditions while also embracing necessary changes. He highlighted the importance of continuing the temple's legacy, which spans over 1200 years, stating that while he is open to change, there are essential aspects that will remain unchanged.

Kubo, born in 1949 in Tokyo, has dedicated decades to the practice of Buddhism, becoming a disciple of Morimoto Kōjun, a long-serving elder at Toshodaiji Temple. His extensive experience includes roles such as the chief steward and head of the Ritsu school religious administration since 2021. During his press conference, he revealed plans for new facilities, including a cultural asset storage building to replace an aging structure, with the aim to finalize the site selection and basic design within the next five years. He also expressed a desire to improve accessibility at the temple, recognizing the need for modern amenities while being sensitive to the traditional aspects cherished by visitors.

Kubo's upcoming installation ceremony is scheduled for April 6th at the temple's main hall. His vision for Toshodaiji Temple includes creating serene spaces conducive to meditation, maintaining its integrity as a religious site while also making it more accessible to a wider audience. His remarks reflect a modern approach to preserving heritage through thoughtful evolution, emphasizing that change should not come at the cost of core values.