Toshodaiji Temple

Toshodaiji Temple (唐招提寺), located in the city of Nara, Japan, is a Buddhist temple founded in 759 by the Chinese monk Jianzhen (Ganjin). It is considered one of the great temples of Nara and is renowned for its beautiful architecture, particularly the Golden Hall (Kondo), which is one of the oldest wooden structures in Japan and a prime example of Chinese Tang Dynasty architecture. The hall is adorned with intricate carvings and houses a statue of the temple’s founder, Jianzhen.

Toshodaiji Temple is also home to several National Treasures, including the Golden Hall, Lecture Hall, Drum Tower, Sutra Repository, and Treasure House. The temple also houses a collection of rare Buddhist scriptures. One of the most unique features of Toshodaiji Temple is its connection to China, evident in the temple’s architecture, which blends Japanese and Chinese design elements.

The statue of Jianzhen, also designated as a National Treasure, is unveiled to the public annually from June 5th to 7th during the Kaizan-ki memorial service.

Toshodaiji Temple is a popular tourist destination and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara.” Visitors can explore the temple grounds, which are adorned with lush greenery in every season, and view the impressive architecture and artifacts, including the newly built Treasure House, the Mieido Hall, and the ordination platform (Kaidan). The temple is located a short distance from other important cultural sites in Nara, including Todaiji Temple and Nara Park.

Getting there

By Train

From Kintetsu Nara Station:

• Take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Yamato-Saidaiji Station
• Transfer to the Kintetsu Kashihara Line to Nishinokyo Station
• Walk about 10 minutes (500 meters) north from Nishinokyo Station
• Total journey time: About 15 minutes
• Cost: 300 yen

By Bus

From Kintetsu Nara Station:

• Take bus number 72, 78, or 98
• Get off at Toshodaiji bus stop
• Journey time: About 20 minutes
• Cost: 270 yen

From JR Nara Station:

• Take bus number 72, 78, or 98
• Get off at Toshodaiji bus stop
• Journey time: About 15 minutes
• Cost: 270 yen

Details

Hours	8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Reception closes at 4:30 PM.
Admission	University students and Adults: 1,000 yen High school students: 400 yen Junior high school students: 400 yen Elementary school students: 200 yen
Phone	+81 742-33-7900
Address	13-46 Gojocho, Nara, 630-8032
Official Website	https://www.toshodaiji.jp/