What other travelers are saying about Todai-ji Temple
Best experience in Nara! I was so amazed at the history of this temple! Seeing all the sites made me feel so small from the grandness of what I observed! I would 100 percent recommend that everyone visits here if they came to visit the deer! This made the trip to Nara so memorable! I would also recommend visiting the museum to get more insight into the history of the contraction and story behind the tempe!
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.
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.
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.
I had Asian Art as part of my course, and we studied Tōdai-ji in-depth during my research on Japanese art and architecture. To finally see the subject matter face-to-face was a truly surreal experience. The feeling can only be described as “Wow.”
The entire complex is remarkably well preserved, carefully managed, and fully deserving of its designation as a Cultural UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting Tōdai-ji is not only an opportunity to witness one of Japan’s most historically significant temples, but also a meaningful way to connect with the country’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
It’s well worth your time and stands as one of the must-see destinations when visiting Nara, Japan. I highly recommend including it in any first-time or repeat itinerary.
