Embrace Tranquility at Todai-ji Namdaimon: A Grand Gateway to History
Discover the grandeur of Todai-ji Namdaimon, a cultural landmark and gateway to Japan's rich Buddhist heritage in the heart of Nara.
Todai-ji Namdaimon, also known as the Grand South Gate, is a majestic entrance to the Todai-ji Temple in Nara, Japan. This iconic structure is not only a marvel of traditional Japanese architecture but also a symbol of Nara's rich cultural heritage. Tourists can explore the serene surroundings, interact with friendly deer in Nara Park, and admire the intricate carvings that adorn the gate's wooden beams. A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must for anyone looking to experience Japan's historical beauty.
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 enjoy the gate with fewer crowds and capture perfect photos.
- Don't miss the nearby Todai-ji Temple and the Great Buddha statue for a complete experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring Nara Park and its surroundings involves a fair amount of walking.
- Bring some deer crackers to feed the friendly deer in Nara Park; they are a highlight for many visitors.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from Nara Park, head towards the Nara National Museum. Once you reach the museum, continue walking straight towards the large open area where you will see the Great Buddha Hall (Todai-ji). The Grand South Gate (Nandaimon) is located just to the south of the Great Buddha Hall. It is a short 10-minute walk from the museum.
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Bus
From Nara Station, take the Nara City Loop Bus (also known as the 'Nara Kotsu Bus'). Board the bus heading towards 'Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall)'. The journey takes about 15 minutes. Get off at the 'Todai-ji Daibutsuden' stop. From there, walk south for about 5 minutes, and you will reach the Grand South Gate (Nandaimon).
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Bicycle
If you are renting a bicycle, head towards Nara Park from your rental location. Once you are in the park, cycle towards the Great Buddha Hall (Todai-ji). The Grand South Gate (Nandaimon) is right outside the Great Buddha Hall. It should take you around 10 minutes from the center of Nara Park.
Discover more about Todai-ji Namdaimon (Grand South Gate)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Todaiji Honbo (Abbot's Quaeters, Temple Office)
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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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旧奈良市水道高地区配水池
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Kofuku-ji Gojunoto (Five Story Pagoda)
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Nara Prefecture Visitors Bureau
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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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Tōdai-ji
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Chayama-enchi
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Tamukeyama Hachimangu
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Todai-ji Hokkedo (Sangatsudo, March Hall)
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Kataoka Bairin
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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
Yokyoan Honten
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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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Izasa-Nakatani-hompo Yumekaze-hiroba
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Kamameshi Shizuka Kouen-ten志津香
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Monsieur Pépé
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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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La Terrasse
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Shiroganeya
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Uma-no-me
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Satei Yusui
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Yumekaze Plaza
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Nara-miyage hyakka-shoten
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Museum Shop, Nara National Museum
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Imanishi-kyorindo
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NARA MEIHINKAN
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Risky
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Nara Higashimuki Shopping Street
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Higashimuki Shopping Street
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Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten - Nara Flagship Store
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Sanrakudo Higashimuki
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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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Kintetsu-Nara Station
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Mochiido Center Town
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
ザ・バー
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M's Bar
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バー フィディック
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Amberjack
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blue note Naramachi
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ダルウィニー
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SK Music At Brazilian Bar
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Salon des vins Sève
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Savant
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Music Bar Reciaffe
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LAMP BAR
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Light
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AUTHENTIC TABLE TAVERN
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Woo Koo Bar?
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
CLUB EDEN
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SNACK BAR solo
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ADAMAS
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NIGHT SPACE エアメール
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フィッツ奈良
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Cotton Club
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LAPIN
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PLAN on NARA
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Club Lounge, Sheraton Miyako Hotel Osaka
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oasis
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Bonita
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G2
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Ammona
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