Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, Kinki Kansai Travel Guide

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Discover Kyoto's Higashi Hongan-ji Temple: A majestic wooden structure and serene Buddhist sanctuary with a rich history and cultural significance.

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Higashi Hongan-ji Temple

Higashi Hongan-ji, or the Eastern Monastery of the Original Vow, is a significant Jodo Shinshu Buddhist temple in Kyoto. Founded in 1602, it stands as a testament to the enduring influence of Pure Land Buddhism in Japan. The temple features the Goei-do Hall, one of the largest wooden structures in the world, and offers visitors a serene and awe-inspiring experience.

A brief summary to Higashi Hongan-ji Temple

烏丸通七条上る, Kyoto, Tokiwacho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8505, JP
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Monday 6:20 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 6:20 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 6:20 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 6:20 am-4:30 pm
Friday 6:20 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 6:20 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 6:20 am-4:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Higashi Hongan-ji Temple.

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the temple's peaceful atmosphere.
Take your shoes off before entering the main halls.
Photography is not allowed inside the Goei-do Hall.
Explore the Shoseien Garden for a tranquil escape and seasonal beauty (admission fee applies).
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Nishi Hongan-ji Temple to compare the two head temples of the Jodo Shinshu sect.

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Getting There

Walking

From Kyoto Station's Karasuma Central Gate, walk straight north, passing Starbucks and Yodobashi Camera. Cross Shichijo-dori Street, and Higashi Hongan-ji will be directly in front of you. The walk is approximately 7 minutes.
Public Transport

Take Kyoto City Bus 9, 28, or 75 from Kyoto Station. Get off at the Nishi Honganji-mae bus stop, which is a short walk from Higashi Hongan-ji. The fare is ¥230 for adults and ¥120 for children. Alternatively, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Gojo Station and walk 5 minutes to the temple. Subway fares range from ¥220 to ¥350 depending on the distance.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available from Kyoto Station. Ask to be taken to 'Higashi Hongan-ji' (東本願寺). The ride should take approximately 5 minutes and cost around ¥620-¥1000, as the starting fare is around ¥490-500 for the first kilometer, with additional fees per kilometer. Note that taxi fares increase by 20% between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM.

Discover more about Higashi Hongan-ji Temple

Higashi Hongan-ji, officially known as Shinshu Honbyo, is one of the two head temples of the Jodo Shinshu sect of Pure Land Buddhism. Located in Kyoto, it was founded in 1602 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, who split the Honganji sect to diminish its power. The temple's history is marked by repeated destruction by fire and subsequent rebuilding, with most of the current structures dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.The Goei-do Hall, or Founder's Hall, is the centerpiece of Higashi Hongan-ji and one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. Rebuilt in 1895, it enshrines a portrait of Shinran Shonin, the founder of the Jodo Shinshu sect. The vast interior, adorned with gold chandeliers and supported by massive pillars, creates a sense of tranquility and reverence. Photography is not permitted inside the Goei-do Hall.Adjacent to the Goei-do Hall is the Amida-do Hall, which enshrines a statue of Amida Buddha. The interior of the Amida-do Hall is lavishly decorated with gold, representing the Pure Land described in Buddhist scriptures. Visitors can also explore the Shoseien Garden, a detached garden that was once a villa and is now designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty. The garden features seasonal beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and snowy landscapes in winter.Higashi Hongan-ji continues to be an influential spiritual center and offers visitors a glimpse into contemporary Japanese Buddhism.