Experience the Grandeur of Tōdai-ji: A Cultural Gem in Nara
Discover Tōdai-ji, the majestic Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan, home to the Great Buddha and a symbol of Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Tōdai-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a breathtaking Buddhist temple located in Nara, Japan. Known for housing the Great Buddha, this architectural marvel offers visitors a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural history. With its stunning structure and serene gardens, Tōdai-ji is a must-visit for tourists seeking spiritual and historical enlightenment.
A brief summary to Tōdai-ji
- 406-1 Zoshicho, Nara, Zoshicho, Nara, 630-8587, JP
- +81742-22-5511
- Visit website
- Monday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Don't miss the chance to feed the deer in Nara Park; they are friendly and a beloved part of the experience.
- Check for any special events or exhibitions at the temple during your visit for a unique experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore the expansive temple grounds and nearby park.
Getting There
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Train
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Nara Station. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Once you arrive at Nara Station, exit the station and head towards the bus terminal located to your right. You will find various buses that can take you to Tōdai-ji.
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Bus
From Nara Station, board the Nara City Loop Bus (green line) and get off at 'Tōdai-ji Daibutsuden' bus stop. The ride takes about 10 minutes. Once you get off the bus, follow the signs to Tōdai-ji, which is just a short walk from the bus stop.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk from Nara Station to Tōdai-ji, it is about a 30-minute walk. Exit the station and head north along Sanjo Street. Continue straight, passing by Nara Park. Tōdai-ji will be on your left as you approach the park.
Discover more about Tōdai-ji
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Todai-ji Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall)
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Todaiji Kondo Hakkaku Toro (Bronze Octagonal Lantern)
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Todaiji Honbo (Abbot's Quaeters, Temple Office)
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Todai-ji Urasando (Back Approach Road)
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Todaiji Nandaimon (Great South Gate)
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Todaiji Nigatsudo (February Hall)
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Ban Inoue Todaiji
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旧奈良市水道高地区配水池
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Tobihino
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Kataoka Bairin
0.9 km
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Rokuen Park
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Kofuku-ji
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Ukimido
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Kofuku-ji Gojunoto (Five Story Pagoda)
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Sagiike pond
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Unmissable attractions to see
Todaiji Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall)
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Nekodan (Cat Stairway)
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Todaiji Kagami-ike Pond
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Todai-ji Daibutsu-ike Pond
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Todai-ji Nigatsudo Kuden (Divine Rice Field)
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Todai-ji Kaidan-in
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Todai-ji Museum
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Nara Park Management Office
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Todai-ji Namdaimon (Grand South Gate)
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Todai-ji Hokkedo (Sangatsudo, March Hall)
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Todai-ji Nigatsu-do
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Isuien Garden and Neiraku Museum
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Kasuganoenchi
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Tamukeyama Hachimangu
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Nara Okuyama Driveway
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Essential places to dine
Rokumeien
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Todaiji Emado Chaya
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akordu
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Yokyoan Honten
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Happy Kitchen Kin-no-shika
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Monsieur Pépé
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Restaurant Naraya Todaiji
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Kamameshi Shizuka Kouen-ten志津香
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Miyama
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Izasa-Nakatani-hompo Yumekaze-hiroba
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Kotoya
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La Terrasse
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Shiroganeya
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Satei Yusui
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Mizuya Chaya
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Imanishi-kyorindo
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Yumekaze Plaza
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Nara-miyage hyakka-shoten
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Museum Shop, Nara National Museum
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NARA MEIHINKAN
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Nara Higashimuki Shopping Street
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Risky
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Higashimuki Shopping Street
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Sanrakudo Higashimuki
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【Souvenirs】GOTO-CHI Nara
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Time's Place Nara
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Kintetsu-Nara Station
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Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten - Nara Flagship Store
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Konishi Sakura-dori Shopping Street
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Spark
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
ザ・バー
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Amberjack
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ダルウィニー
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M's Bar
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バー フィディック
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blue note Naramachi
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LAMP BAR
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SK Music At Brazilian Bar
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Savant
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shisha&bar vanguard
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Music Bar Reciaffe
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Salon des vins Sève
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Light
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AUTHENTIC TABLE TAVERN
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Woo Koo Bar?
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