Religious site
Tōdai-ji
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Tōdai-ji is a monumental Buddhist temple complex in Nara, originally built in the 8th century. The main hall, Daibutsuden, is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world and houses the 15-meter-tall bronze Daibutsu, a statue of Buddha Vairocana. Visitors can walk around the statue, see the towering wooden pillars, and even crawl through a hole in one pillar said to grant enlightenment. The temple grounds also include the Nandaimon Gate with fierce guardian statues and the Nigatsu-do Hall with views over Nara.
Don't miss
- See the 15-meter bronze Daibutsu, the world's largest bronze Buddha statue.
- Visit the Daibutsuden, one of the world's largest wooden structures.
- Crawl through the 'Buddha's nostril' pillar for good luck.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Tōdai-ji
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inAsakusa Senso-ji Temple and Old Tokyo Walking Tour4.9★ · 977 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$30 per personSee dates →
Best full dayWorld Heritage Kyoto & Nara Uji Authentic Matcha Experience4.9★ · 2,229 travelers~9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$123 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleNara: Half-Day Private Tour of 4 Must-See Spots & Deer Park5★ · 17 travelers~5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$214 per personSee dates →More attractions in Nara