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Toshodai-ji Temple

4.5 (200)Tourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Toshodai-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the heart of Nara. This temple isn't just a place of worship; it's a pivotal chapter in the story of Buddhism in Japan.

Founded in 759 AD by Ganjin, a revered Chinese Buddhist monk, Toshodai-ji Temple was established as a center for Buddhist education and training. Ganjin's journey to Japan, fraught with hardship and failed attempts, ended in Nara where he made significant contributions to Japanese Buddhism, including introducing the Ritsu school, which focuses on monastic rules.

Toshodai-ji's architectural layout and its statues are national treasures. The Golden Hall, the main worship hall, stands as a prime example of classical Buddhist architecture, unaltered since its construction, offering a glimpse into the artistry of the era. The temple also houses a statue of Ganjin, which is a religious icon and a symbol of the enduring ties between Japan and China.

Visiting Toshodai-ji offers more than just a view of beautiful buildings and art; it provides a connection to the profound spiritual and historical narratives that have shaped Japan. It's an enlightening experience for anyone interested in the depth of Japanese tradition and the peaceful teachings of Buddhism.

Hours:

8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry  until 4:30 PM)

Closed: 

Closed on year end and new year holidays

Available: 

All year

Minimum age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

Adults/University Students: 1000 yen

High School Students/Middle school students: ¥400

Elementary school student: 200 yen


Hours
Monday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Sunday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Phone
+81 742-33-7900
Website
www.toshodaiji.jp

The area

Address
13-46 Gojōchō, Nara, 630-8032, Japan

What other travelers are saying about Toshodai-ji Temple

It is a nice and well kept buddisth temple relatively small in size. What I found to be a turn off was the price which is 1000 yen per person. Compared to many other temples in Japan this one stood out to me. Overall there was not really something that stayed with me for that price. It might just be me but I would not recommend it as a visit. What I also found strange and with all due respect was the fact that it was not possible to take pictures of the statues which were in fact the interesting part of the temple.
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Alessandro Balocco
Sep 28, 2024
Beautiful Buddhist temple. Incredibly well taken care of. The Garden surroundings the temples were very nice well worth the visit. A very piecefull place. If I am in Nara definitely will have to visit again If you read English, make sure to get the brochure it gives a great overview of the history of the temple and also has a website off of the qrcode, these people thought about everything!
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sky i
Sep 15, 2024
A bit ways off from the usual Nara old city and park and attractions, this temple sits on the west side of Nara station and literally in the middle of rice paddies fields (yes still). This temple, however, is no less significant than todaiji or any other temples in Nara or Kyoto, being the home temple to the famed Chinese master Ganjin came over to Japan over 1200 years ago. He has been celebrated for centuries in jaoan, yet few in communist China today knows much of this history--what a pity. Ganjin's final live cast statue is considered a national treasure which only was open to public views 3 days in a year to the public which we were lucky enough to be here for it. Just an amazing experience. For those who are revered in history, this is a special place absolutely worth the visit and reflection.
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Jerome Mo
Jun 12, 2024
Tōshōdai-ji (唐招提寺) is a Buddhist temple of the Risshū sect in the city of Nara... The Classic Golden Hall, also known as the kondō, features a single-story, hipped-tiled roof with a seven-bay-wide facade. Tōshōdai-ji is one of the places in Nara designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site (seem like there's lots of it thou) The temple is much more quiet n peaceful as not much tourists or visitors during the time we are there...
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KiM BooN LeE
Jun 22, 2024
Beautiful heritage temple. Iinside in ruins and no pics allowed. No up keep. Was disappointed that other than the Gardner and shop attended there wasn't anyone around
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Mildred
Oct 22, 2024


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