A template inspection method for performing defect inspection of a template, by bringing a pattern formation surface of a template used to form a pattern close to a first fluid coated on a flat substrate, filling the first fluid into a pattern of the template, and by performing optical observation of the template in a state that the first fluid is sandwiched between the template and the substrate, wherein a difference between an optical constant of the first fluid and an optical constant of the template is larger than a difference between an optical constant of air and the optical constant of the template.