Saidai-ji Temple

西大寺

One of the Seven Great Temples of Nanto, established in 765 by Empress Shotoku. It is famous for the 'Great Tea Ceremony,' where a huge tea bowl is shared by everyone. It is right next to Daiwa-Saidaiji Station.

Saidai-ji was founded in 765 by Empress Shotoku, facing Todai-ji across the way. It is one of the Seven Great Temples of Nanto. In the Nara period its precincts were vast, but it was burned several times afterward. It was revived by Eison during the Kamakura period, and most of its surviving buildings, including the main hall, the Aizen-do and the Shio-do, were built in the Edo period. The most famous event here is the 'Great Tea Ceremony': matcha is served in a giant bowl over thirty centimeters in diameter, which a group of people lifts together to drink. It is held in January, April and October, so check the dates in advance. The main hall, Aizen-do and Shio-do each charge a few hundred yen, and it is open about 8:30–16:30. Access: about a 3-minute walk from the south exit of Kintetsu Daiwa-Saidaiji Station. It can be combined with a visit to Heijo Palace Site and Akishino-dera.

Saidai-ji Temple

Opening hours

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby