Todaiji Temple in Nara is one of Japan’s most famous temples. It houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world.
The temple opened in 752. Today it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.”
Todaiji is also known for Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall). This large wooden building holds the Great Buddha statue.
Great Buddha (Daibutsu)
The Great Buddha stands about 15 meters tall.
This bronze statue represents Vairocana Buddha, a symbol of enlightenment in Buddhism. The statue sits on a large lotus pedestal inside Daibutsuden.
Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden)
Daibutsuden holds the Great Buddha and several other Buddhist statues.
The building first opened in the 8th century. However, fires destroyed it several times. The current building dates from 1707.
At Todaiji Temple’s Great Buddha Hall, visitors can crawl through a hole in a wooden pillar. The hole is said to be the same size as the Great Buddha’s nostril, and people believe it brings good health.
Nandaimon Gate
Nandaimon Gate is the main entrance to Todaiji Temple.
The gate stands about 25 meters tall. Inside the gate are two large guardian statues called Agyo and Ungyo. These statues protect the temple from evil spirits.
My wife insists I post this video she took of me being swarmed at the deer park outside Todaiji Temple in Nara. 🦌 pic.twitter.com/Nh1HJCkQ26
— Samuel Deats 🌕 (@SamuelDeats) November 4, 2024
Nigatsudo Hall
Nigatsudo Hall is a smaller hall inside the Todaiji complex.
It stands on a hillside and overlooks Nara City. The hall is also famous for the Omizutori ceremony, which takes place every March.
Admission and Opening Hours
Admission
- Great Buddha Hall: 800 yen (adults)
- Elementary school students: 400 yen
The surrounding temple grounds are free to enter.
Opening Hours
- 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Hours may change by season.
Access
Todaiji Temple is located inside Nara Park.
- About 20 minutes on foot from Kintetsu Nara Station
- About 45 minutes on foot from JR Nara Station
- Local buses from JR Nara Station also stop near the temple
FAQ
Todaiji Temple is known for the Great Buddha statue and the large wooden building called Daibutsuden.
Yes. Nara Park, which surrounds the temple, has many free-roaming deer. These deer often approach visitors.
Ushiku Daibutsu in Ibaraki stands about 120 meters tall. It is much taller than the Great Buddha in Nara.
