Buddhist templeNara

Saidai-ji Temple

西大寺

Collectible stamp

An original digital stamp by emonster for your Temple Quest collection.

Discover Temple QuestComing soon for iPhone & iPad

Temple Quest collectible artwork, separate from official goshuin.

Empress Shōtoku established Saidai-ji in 765, following her earlier pledge to commission Four Heavenly Kings images during the Nakamaro rebellion.

Sources1

Founding, rebuilding, and milestones across the centuries.

About the era labels

Browse places by founding, rebuilding, and other events in each historical era.

An illustrated overview of the grounds. Match the numbers to the landmarks below.

Illustration © emonsterIllustrated map for orientation. Access and paths may change; follow signs at the site.

Landmarks on this map

Main Hall
The main hall enshrines standing Shakyamuni.
Landmark source
Aizen Hall
Aizen Hall is one of the three principal visiting halls.
Landmark source
Shio Hall
Shio Hall is one of the three principal visiting halls.
Landmark source
Daishi Hall
Daishi Hall forms part of the precinct.
Landmark source
Daikoku Hall
Daikoku Hall forms part of the precinct.
Landmark source
Fudo Hall
Fudo Hall forms part of the precinct.
Landmark source
Shuhokan Museum
The museum displays part of the temple’s collection.
Landmark source
Honbo
The Honbo forms part of the present precinct.
Landmark source
Komyoden
Komyoden is one of the precinct buildings.
Landmark source
Koshoden
Koshoden is one of the precinct buildings.
Landmark source

Map sources & credits

Check before you go

Hours, admission and access can change. Confirm current details with the site before travelling.

Hall visiting hours are 08:30–16:30, with admission ending 30 minutes before closing. The treasure hall has a separate schedule.

Sources1