Tōdai-ji

★ 4.9 (24K+ reviews) • 187K+ booked
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Tōdai-ji Reviews

4.9 /5
24K+ reviews
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Klook User
4 Nov 2025
Chose this tour instead of others because of the Nara portion. LOVED IT! Was able to see many checkpoints in one day, which was very convenient for me. Alex was very knowledgeable and a great guide! Highly recommend!!!!!
Sofia *************
4 Nov 2025
Being able to go to so many attractions in one day was great! Our guide, Eric, was very friendly and gave good explanations about the places we went to. Our entire family's favorite was Nara Park.
클룩 회원
3 Nov 2025
Guide Luffy Jjang (Siwon)'s passionate and friendly explanations, along with taking photos at every attraction, eliminated the need for a tripod. We had the option of a guided tour with Luffy Jjang or exploring on our own, so I recommend it even for those who just want transportation and prefer independent travel! We got a lot of restaurant recommendations and travel tips. I recommend taking the tour on the first day. Luffy Jjang, best of luck! ♥
1+
Remko ******
3 Nov 2025
A very enjoyable experience. Perhaps a little short on time in some places, but that was compensated by the wonderful, kind and helpful guide, Gary.
1+
MIN *******
3 Nov 2025
Thanks to Luffy-jjang guide, it was such a fun and perfect tour. You took pictures with such passion, so I have many wonderful photos. I was worried about whether to do the Nara-Kyoto bus tour or just go freely, but there's no need to worry, I highly recommend the bus tour. If you meet Luffy-jjang guide, you're even more lucky! (You even lent me 1000 yen at the end, so the memory with my son that almost went bad ended happily and peacefully ^^)
클룩 회원
2 Nov 2025
It was a packed full-day itinerary, so I was a little sad that I didn't have enough time to look around at my leisure, but I don't think I could have seen so many highlights without the tour package. The efficient route and the fact that all the tourists in the same group kept to the meeting times meant that I was able to see everything on the schedule without missing anything. I loved that our guide, Koi, was so energetic and cheerful, so the travel time wasn't boring. It's great to see someone enjoying and loving their work, and I'd love to take another tour led by Koi when he becomes a veteran in the future!😍❣️
클룩 회원
2 Nov 2025
Thanks to Manager Jung, it was such a comfortable trip!!! I'm leaving with so much fruitful and good information and knowledge~! Manager Jung is the best ❤️👍👍👍👍
2+
Klook *****
2 Nov 2025
I recently had the pleasure of going on a tour led by Tracy, and I can't recommend him enough! From start to finish, the day was exceptionally well-planned. Tracy’s knowledge of the area and the local wildlife was impressive, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. One of the standout moments was when Tracy shared some sensible tips on how to feed the deer. This not only enhanced our interaction with these beautiful creatures but also created memorable moments that I’ll cherish. The meeting times and spots were clearly communicated, which made the day flow smoothly. Tracy's friendly demeanor and passion for what he does really shone through, making the tour not just a learning experience but a delightful adventure.
2+

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FAQs about Tōdai-ji

When is the best time to visit Tōdai-ji Temple in Nara?

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Is there a special time of year to experience unique events at Tōdai-ji Temple?

What are the transportation options to Tōdai-ji Temple from major cities like Osaka and Kyoto?

Are there any local dishes I should try while visiting Nara?

What to know about Tōdai-ji

Discover the awe-inspiring Tōdai-ji Temple in Nara, Japan, a magnificent Buddhist complex that stands as a testament to ancient architectural brilliance and spiritual devotion. Home to the world's largest bronze statue of the Vairocana Buddha, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique blend of history, culture, and serene beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Just an hour's express train ride from Kyoto, this magnificent temple complex promises a journey through Japan's rich history and culture.
406-1 Zoshicho, Nara, 630-8587, Japan

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden)

Step into the Great Buddha Hall, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue. This hall, once the largest wooden building in the world, is a testament to ancient Japanese architectural prowess.

Nandaimon Gate

Marvel at Japan’s largest temple entrance gate, the Nandaimon, with its towering wooden pillars that set the stage for the grandeur that awaits inside Tōdai-ji.

Todaiji Museum

Opened in 2011, this museum showcases rotating exhibitions of religious art and cultural treasures from the temple's vast collection.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Tōdai-ji Temple, established in 752, is a symbol of Nara's historical importance as Japan’s first fixed capital. The temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting its profound cultural and historical value.

Architectural Marvels

Tōdai-ji's architecture reflects the influence of Chinese Tang dynasty temples. The complex originally included two towering pagodas, a library, lecture hall, and monks' quarters. Today, visitors can still marvel at the intricate designs and historical structures that have been preserved.

Local Cuisine

Savor the local delicacy, gyumabushi, a regional variant of gyudon (beef and rice bowls), at nearby restaurants like Mimaya. For a unique twist, try deer curry, a specialty in some parts of Japan.