Toshodaiji Raido Hall Special Opening & Shaka Nenbutsu-e 2026

Why You Should Visit

Every year from October 21 for three days, Toshodaiji in Nara's Nishinokyo area holds the Shaka Nenbutsu-e memorial service and opens the normally closed Raido Hall. Inside, visitors can see the National Treasure Kinki Shari-to (Golden Turtle Reliquary) and the Important Cultural Property standing statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. The service was started in 1203 by the monk Gedatsu Shonin Jokei and has continued for over 800 years. Services are held in the hall early in the morning, at midday and in the evening. A rare chance to step inside a hall at the temple founded by Ganjin that opens only three days a year.

Essentials

location

Raido Hall, Toshodaiji Temple

period

October 21, 2026 (Wed) - October 23, 2026 (Fri)

Time

9:00–16:00 (until 15:00 on the final day, Oct 23)

cost

Adults & university students ¥1,000 / junior & senior high school students ¥400 / elementary school students ¥200

Links

Official Website

Kobe · Gluten-free

Basque cheesecakeBaked with rice flour, no wheat. Whole 12cm, serves 2-3¥4,700 incl. shipping (Japan only)

access

About 10 min walk from Kintetsu Nishinokyo Station. By car, use the paid Toshodaiji parking lot (150 cars).

NOTE

Services in the Raido Hall

Oct 21 (Wed) 14:00, 19:00
Oct 22 (Thu) 4:00, 14:00, 19:00
Oct 23 (Fri) 4:00, 7:00

On display

Kinki Shari-to (National Treasure): reliquary holding Buddha relics brought to Japan by Ganjin
Standing statue of Shakyamuni Buddha (Important Cultural Property): wooden statue made in 1258

* Service times and displays are subject to change

FAQ

Do I need a reservation to see the Raido Hall?

Neither the temple nor the tourism association mentions reservations. Visit between 9:00 and 16:00 (until 15:00 on the final day).

Is there a fee on top of regular admission?

The Nara Prefecture tourism listing gives ¥1,000 for adults, ¥400 for junior and senior high school students and ¥200 for elementary school students, the same as regular admission. No separate fee is listed.

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