An image decoding method for decoding, on a block-by-block basis, image data included in a coded bitstream includes: obtaining a fixed number of merging candidates each of which is a candidate set of a prediction direction, a motion vector, and a reference picture index which are to be referenced in decoding of a current block (S303); and obtaining, from the coded bitstream, an index for identifying a merging candidate for the current block (S304), wherein the fixed number of merging candidates include: one or more first candidates each derived based on a prediction direction, a motion vector, and a reference picture index which have been used for decoding a neighboring block spatially or temporally neighboring the current block; and one or more second candidates having a predetermined fixed. The fixed number is greater than or equal to two.