Exploring the Wonders of Todai-ji Museum
Discover the spiritual and artistic treasures of Japan at Todai-ji Museum in Nara, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning artifacts and architecture.
Nestled in the historic city of Nara, Todai-ji Museum is a treasure trove of Buddhist art and heritage, featuring stunning architecture and serene gardens that captivate visitors.
A brief summary to Todai-ji Museum
- Suimoncho, 100 東大寺総合文化センター内, Nara, Suimoncho, Nara, 630-8208, JP
- +81742-20-5511
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Don't miss the opportunity to take photos of the Great Buddha statue, especially from different angles.
- Check the museum's website for any special exhibitions or events that may be happening during your visit.
- Take a leisurely walk around the temple grounds to fully appreciate the natural beauty and historical context.
Getting There
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Train
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line towards Nara. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Disembark at Nara Station. Once you arrive at Nara Station, exit the station and head towards the bus terminal.
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Bus
At Nara Station, take bus number 97 or 100 from the bus terminal. These buses will take you directly to Todai-ji Museum. The ride takes about 10-15 minutes. Get off at the 'Daibutsuden' (Great Buddha Hall) stop. From there, follow the signs to Todai-ji Museum, which is located within the Todai-ji Temple complex.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk from Nara Station, it will take you approximately 30-40 minutes. Exit Nara Station and head south on Sanjo Street. Continue straight until you reach the entrance of Nara Park. Walk through the park, enjoying the sights and deer, and follow the signs to Todai-ji Temple. The museum is located next to the Great Buddha Hall within the complex.
Discover more about Todai-ji Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Todaiji Nandaimon (Great South Gate)
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Todaiji Honbo (Abbot's Quaeters, Temple Office)
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Ban Inoue Todaiji
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Todaiji Kondo Hakkaku Toro (Bronze Octagonal Lantern)
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Todai-ji Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall)
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Todai-ji Urasando (Back Approach Road)
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Todaiji Nigatsudo (February Hall)
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Rokuen Park
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Ukimido
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Sagiike pond
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Kofuku-ji
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Kofuku-ji Gojunoto (Five Story Pagoda)
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旧奈良市水道高地区配水池
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NARA Visitor Center & Inn
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Nara Prefecture Visitors Bureau
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Unmissable attractions to see
Todai-ji Namdaimon (Grand South Gate)
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Todaiji Kagami-ike Pond
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Isuien Garden and Neiraku Museum
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Okumura Commemorative Museum
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Kasuganoenchi
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Yoshikien Garden
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Todaiji Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall)
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Tōdai-ji
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Ukigumo-enchi
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Nekodan (Cat Stairway)
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Nara National Museum
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Todai-ji Kaidan-in
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Nara Park
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Todai-ji Daibutsu-ike Pond
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Todai-ji Nigatsudo Kuden (Divine Rice Field)
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Essential places to dine
Yokyoan Honten
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Happy Kitchen Kin-no-shika
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Restaurant Naraya Todaiji
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Izasa-Nakatani-hompo Yumekaze-hiroba
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Miyama
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Kamameshi Shizuka Kouen-ten志津香
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Monsieur Pépé
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akordu
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Rokumeien
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Todaiji Emado Chaya
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Kotoya
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La Terrasse
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Uma-no-me
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Shiroganeya
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Satei Yusui
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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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Imanishi-kyorindo
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Risky
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Nara Higashimuki Shopping Street
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Higashimuki Shopping Street
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Sanrakudo Higashimuki
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Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten - Nara Flagship Store
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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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Spark
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Konishi Sakura-dori Shopping Street
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
ザ・バー
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M's Bar
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Amberjack
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blue note Naramachi
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SK Music At Brazilian Bar
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Savant
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Salon des vins Sève
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Music Bar Reciaffe
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LAMP BAR
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shisha&bar vanguard
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Light
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AUTHENTIC TABLE TAVERN
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Woo Koo Bar?
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