By train
The temple is about 500 meters north of Nishinokyo Station, next to Yakushiji Temple. To get there from Kintetsu Nara Station, take the Kintetsu Nara Line to Yamato-Saidaiji Station, then transfer to the Kintetsu Kashihara Line. The trip takes 15 minutes and costs 300 yen.
By bus
Buses 72, 78, and 98 run three times an hour from Kintetsu Nara Station (20 minutes, 310 yen) and JR Nara Station (15 minutes, 310 yen) to Toshodaiji Temple. The closest stop is Toshodaiji, right in front of the temple. Bus 98 stops at Toshodaiji-higashiguchi, a 5-minute walk away. For return trips, catch buses 72, 77, or 97 from Toshodaiji-higashiguchi.
5
Toshodaiji Temple
8 of 15 in attractions in Nara
Toshodaiji (唐招提寺, Tōshōdaiji) was founded in 759 by Ganjin, a Chinese priest invited to Japan by the emperor to improve Japanese Buddhism. His teachings were pivotal in the development of Buddhism in Japan. The temple’s main hall was renovated and reopened in 2009 after almost a decade of work. The lecture hall, originally from the Nara Imperial Palace, is the only surviving building from the palace.
Toshodaiji also houses a statue of Ganjin, displayed annually around June 6. The temple grounds are peaceful, with small paths leading to Ganjin’s grave, a large Heian-period bell, and several other historical features.
Hours and Fees
Toshodaiji Temple
- Opening hours
-
8:30 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
- Closed
-
No closing days
- Entrance fee
-
1000 yen
Getting there
Google MapsResources
English
Toshodaiji Temple
Official website
Japanese
Toshodaiji Temple
Official website
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