The Majestic Todai-ji Namdaimon: Gateway to Nara's Spiritual Heart
Discover the spiritual grandeur of Todai-ji Namdaimon, a cultural landmark in Nara, Japan, steeped in history and architectural beauty.
Experience the grandeur of Todai-ji Namdaimon, an iconic Buddhist temple in Nara, Japan. This cultural landmark offers a glimpse into the rich history and spiritual significance of the region, making it a must-visit for tourists.
A brief summary to Todai-ji Namdaimon (Grand South Gate)
- 406-1 Zoshicho, Nara, Zoshicho, Nara, 630-8211, JP
- +81742-22-5511
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and fully appreciate the tranquil atmosphere.
- Don’t forget your camera; the architectural details and surrounding nature make for stunning photographs.
- Take a leisurely walk in Nara Park afterward to see the free-roaming deer.
- Check the temple's website for any special events or festivals that may coincide with your visit.
- Respect the sacredness of the site; maintain a quiet demeanor while exploring.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving, take the Nishi-Meihan Expressway and exit at the Nara Interchange. Follow the signs towards Nara city center. Once in the city, head south on Route 369. Continue straight until you reach Zoshicho. Look for signs to Todai-ji. Parking is available nearby, but be aware that it can get crowded, especially during weekends.
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Train
To reach Todai-ji Namdaimon by train, take the Kintetsu Nara Line from Osaka or Kyoto. If you're coming from Osaka, get on at Namba Station and travel to Kintetsu Nara Station. From Kyoto, take the train from Kyoto Station to Kintetsu Nara Station. Once you arrive at Kintetsu Nara Station, exit the station and follow the signs to Todai-ji, which will take about 20 minutes on foot. Head towards the Nara Park area, and you will see the Grand South Gate as you approach the temple.
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Bus
You can take a bus to Nara city from major cities like Osaka and Kyoto. If you're coming from Osaka, take the Nara Kotsu Bus from Osaka Station to Nara Station. From Nara Station, you can catch a local bus heading to Todai-ji Daibutsuden. Get off at the Todai-ji Daibutsuden bus stop, and you will find the Grand South Gate nearby. The bus ride takes about 40 minutes.
Discover more about Todai-ji Namdaimon (Grand South Gate)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Ban Inoue Todaiji
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Kasuganoenchi
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Todaiji Kondo Hakkaku Toro (Bronze Octagonal Lantern)
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Todai-ji Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall)
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Asajigahara Enchi
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Tobihino
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Todai-ji Daibutsu-ike Pond
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Todai-ji Urasando (Back Approach Road)
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Noborioji Park
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Rokuen Park
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Kofuku-ji Gojunoto (Five Story Pagoda)
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Sarusawa-ike Monument
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Unmissable attractions to see
Todai-ji Museum
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Isuien Garden and Neiraku Museum
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Nara Park
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Yoshikien Garden
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Nara National Museum
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Nekodan (Cat Stairway)
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Manyo Botanical Gardens
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Todai-ji Nigatsu-do
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Ukimido Pavilion
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Sagi Pond
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Essential places to dine
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Happy Kitchen Kin-no-shika
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Miyama
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Restaurant Naraya Todaiji
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Rokumeien
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akordu
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Todaiji Emado Chaya
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Kotoya
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Yumekaze Plaza
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Risky
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Higashimuki Shopping Street
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【Souvenirs】GOTO-CHI Nara
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Time's Place Nara
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Spark
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ザ・バー
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M's Bar
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Amberjack
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SK Music At Brazilian Bar
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Savant
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LAMP BAR
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Woo Koo Bar?
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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LAPIN
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PLAN on NARA
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oasis
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Ammona
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