A pattern matching method comprising the steps of: computing matching scores while shifting a template picture in increments of four pixels so as to find a pixel corresponding to a maximum matching score; performing, starting from the pixel of the maximum matching score obtained in the matching score computing step, matching computations on each of an upper, a lower, a left-hand and a right-hand pixel surrounding the starting pixel in order to reach a pixel having a higher matching score than any other surrounding pixel; coming to a stop when the pixel with the highest matching score is reached; and adding to the highest matching score obtained in the computation performing step a correction value which takes into account the matching scores of the pixels adjacent to the highest matching score pixel, whereby matching score allowances due to dislocated pixels are corrected.