About Todai-ji
Todai-ji was commissioned by Emperor Shomu in the 8th century as the head of a national network of provincial temples, meant to protect the realm through Buddhist faith. Its Great Buddha, a bronze image of Vairocana about 15 meters tall, was consecrated in 752 in a grand ceremony attended by monks from across Asia.
The Daibutsuden that shelters the statue was rebuilt in 1709 and remains one of the largest wooden buildings in the world, though it is a third smaller than the original. Visitors pass the towering Nandaimon gate with its fierce guardian kings before entering. Inside, a pillar with a hole the size of the Buddha's nostril tempts visitors to squeeze through for good luck, and the hillside hall of Nigatsu-do offers sweeping views.
What to see
- Great Buddha in the Daibutsuden
- Nandaimon gate and its guardian statues
- Nigatsu-do hall and its veranda view
- Pillar with the good luck hole
- Nara Park deer along the approach
Visiting Todai-ji: practical guide
- Best time
- March to May and October to November
- Hours
- Daily, about 7:30 to 17:30 April to October; shorter in winter
- Entry
- About 800 JPY for the Great Buddha Hall
- Dress code
- Respectful clothing
- Nearest airport
- Itami Osaka International Airport (ITM), 45 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Arrive at opening to avoid school groups
- Bow to the deer and keep crackers out of reach until you feed them
- Visit Nigatsu-do at sunset for a quieter view
Festivals and special days
- Omizutori at Nigatsu-do (1 to 14 March)
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Buddhism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes and hats before entering temple halls.
- Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing.
- Never point your feet toward a Buddha image or monk.
- Women should not touch or hand items directly to Theravada monks.
- Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels.
- Do not climb on or pose disrespectfully with Buddha statues.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Todai-ji?
Todai-ji is in Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan, Asia. GPS coordinates: 34.6892, 135.8397. The nearest airport is Itami Osaka International Airport (ITM), 45 km.
What is the best time to visit Todai-ji?
March to May and October to November
Is there an entry fee for Todai-ji?
About 800 JPY for the Great Buddha Hall Opening hours: Daily, about 7:30 to 17:30 April to October; shorter in winter
What should I wear when visiting Todai-ji?
Respectful clothing
Which religion is Todai-ji sacred to?
Todai-ji is sacred to Buddhism. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
