SUMMARY
Todaiji Temple is one of Japan's most important and historic Buddhist temples. Famous for housing the Great Buddha, one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world, Todaiji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Nara's most iconic attractions.
DESCRIPTION
Todaiji Temple was originally established in 752 as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples in Japan. It played a central role in the spread of Buddhism during the Nara Period and remains one of the country's most significant religious sites.
The temple's main hall, known as Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), houses the famous 15-meter-tall bronze Buddha statue known as Vairocana Buddha. Although the current building dates from the 18th century, it remains one of the largest wooden structures in the world.
Visitors can admire the impressive architecture, explore the temple grounds, and learn about Japan's rich Buddhist heritage. Inside the hall, there is also a famous wooden pillar with a hole said to be the same size as the Buddha's nostril. According to local belief, those who successfully pass through it will receive good fortune and enlightenment.
The temple grounds extend through beautiful parkland connected to Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely among visitors.
As one of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, Todaiji is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture, history, and religion.
The temple's main hall, known as Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall), houses the famous 15-meter-tall bronze Buddha statue known as Vairocana Buddha. Although the current building dates from the 18th century, it remains one of the largest wooden structures in the world.
Visitors can admire the impressive architecture, explore the temple grounds, and learn about Japan's rich Buddhist heritage. Inside the hall, there is also a famous wooden pillar with a hole said to be the same size as the Buddha's nostril. According to local belief, those who successfully pass through it will receive good fortune and enlightenment.
The temple grounds extend through beautiful parkland connected to Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely among visitors.
As one of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara, Todaiji is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture, history, and religion.
Access
By Train
From Kintetsu Nara Station, walk approximately 20 minutes through Nara Park. From JR Nara Station, the walk takes approximately 30 minutes.
By Car
For a more comfortable and hassle-free experience, we recommend using Easy Travel private car and driver. Enjoy convenient transportation while exploring Nara, Kyoto, Osaka, and nearby attractions.
From Kintetsu Nara Station, walk approximately 20 minutes through Nara Park. From JR Nara Station, the walk takes approximately 30 minutes.
By Car
For a more comfortable and hassle-free experience, we recommend using Easy Travel private car and driver. Enjoy convenient transportation while exploring Nara, Kyoto, Osaka, and nearby attractions.
Hours & Fees
Opening Hours:
08:00 – 17:00 (November–February)
07:30 – 17:30 (March, April, September, October)
07:30 – 18:00 (May–August)
Admission Fee:
• Adults: ¥800
• Children: ¥400
08:00 – 17:00 (November–February)
07:30 – 17:30 (March, April, September, October)
07:30 – 18:00 (May–August)
Admission Fee:
• Adults: ¥800
• Children: ¥400
Related recommended itinerary
Travel Plan Builder
Confused on building travel plan? Use Easy Travel Automatic Travel Plan Builder
Make Travel Plan