Toshodai-ji Temple

UNESCO World Heritage

唐招提寺

Toshodai-ji is a Buddhist temple founded in 759 by Ganjin (Jianzhen), a Chinese monk who overcame many hardships to come to Japan. Its Golden Hall (Kondo) is known for its "Tenpyo" style roof from the Nara period. Some treasures are shown only on special days, such as the statue of Ganjin in early June. Toshodai-ji is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara".

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Visitor information

Opening hours

Open 8:30–17:00 (last entry 16:30).

Closed

Open all year.

Admission

Adults ¥1,000, elementary school students ¥200. People with disabilities pay half price.

Getting there

About a 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Nishinokyo Station.

From JR Nara or Kintetsu Nara Station, take a bus heading to Rokujo-yama (about 17 minutes).

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

Shinhouzou Treasure House opens in spring and autumn (adults and university students ¥200). The statue of Ganjin is shown on June 5–7.

Tips for Muslim visitors

Toshodai-ji is the head temple of the Ritsu school of Buddhism, with Kondo and Kodo halls from the Nara period; visitors may simply look around.
Buddhist temples welcome visitors of all faiths. You can enjoy the buildings and gardens without joining any prayer, burning incense or buying charms.
Many halls ask you to take off your shoes. Wear socks and shoes that are easy to slip off, and keep a bag for your shoes if none is provided.
Photography is often not allowed inside halls. Follow the signs and ask staff if you are unsure.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Nara and the verified places to pray nearby.
Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.