What other travelers are saying about Omizutori (Shunie)
The sheer size of the statues is incredibly impressive and leaves you in absolute awe. The outdoor area surrounding the temple is also beautiful and not too crowded. In general, it’s quite peaceful—even on the weekend, there was hardly any waiting time. I would definitely recommend a visit and would love to come back again.
Very impressive temple with a gigantic Buddha statue. Despite the crowds, it was peaceful and gives a sense of quiet. The wooden models of the temple as it evolved through history are excellent. The ticket queue was short and toilets clean. There are free English tour guides before the temple (who are learners who read out text but do so in a very pleasant and cheerful way and did not accept any money). Worth visiting.
Sun was very strong, however, it could not stop us from walking a long distance to admire the gorgeous architecture of the temple. Entering the main hall cost us 800Yen/person but it was worth every single yen. The giant Buddha was extremely amazing. Everything was well explained in both Japanese and English.
What a unique and impressive place to visit. Just the walk up to the temple humbled you due to it immense size. It was busy but not too busy, mainly thanks to the designated walking route and space to walk the path. The Buddha is impressive and huge. We really much appreciated visited this place. Would definitely visit it again.
Tōdai-ji in Nara is one of Japan’s most iconic and spiritually significant temples—a place where history, architecture, and nature blend into something truly unforgettable. As the centerpiece of Japan’s first permanent capital, Nara, Tōdai-ji reflects the power and devotion of ancient Japan—and still leaves modern visitors in awe.
Built in the 8th century during Nara’s time as Japan’s capital, Tōdai-ji served as the head temple for all provincial Buddhist temples across the country. Its creation was a monumental national project symbolizing unity and faith.
At its center is the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden)—once the world’s largest wooden building, and still overwhelmingly massive even today. Inside sits the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a 15-meter bronze statue of Vairocana Buddha, so large and serene that it practically radiates stillness and strength.
Tōdai-ji isn’t just about architecture and spirituality—it’s also famous for its free-roaming deer, considered messengers of the gods in Shinto belief. They wander peacefully through Nara Park, bowing for treats and interacting gently with visitors. The mix of sacred wildlife and historic grandeur makes the area uniquely charming and unlike anywhere else in the world.
