To-ji
東寺（教王護国寺）
The head temple of the Shingon sect founded by Kūkai, with a 55-meter five-story pagoda, the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan.
To-ji was built when the capital moved to Heian-kyō. In 823, Emperor Saga granted the temple to Kūkai, and it became the head temple of Shingon esoteric Buddhism. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site under 'Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto'. The roughly 55-meter five-story pagoda is a landmark of Kyoto. Inside the lecture hall, a three-dimensional mandala made of 21 Buddhist statues is awe-inspiring. Entry to the temple grounds is free. The Golden Hall and lecture hall cost about 500 yen, with extra fees during special openings. On the 21st of each month, the Kōbō-san flea market is very lively. It is about a 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station.
Opening hours
08:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Kyoto Railway Museum
- Nishi Hongan-ji
- Kyoto Tower
- Sanjusangen-do
- Tofuku-ji
- Fushimi Inari Taisha
- Nishiki Market
- Nijo Castle