Daigo-ji Temple: A Journey Through History and Nature
Explore Kyoto's Daigo-ji Temple: A World Heritage Site with stunning gardens, ancient architecture, and a rich Buddhist history.
Daigo-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vast temple complex southeast of Kyoto, encompassing an entire mountainside. Founded in 874, it's an important temple of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. The temple is divided into two main areas: Shimo-Daigo (lower) and Kami-Daigo (upper), offering a blend of historical buildings, serene gardens, and mountain trails.
A brief summary to Daigo-ji
- 22 Daigohigashiojicho, Kyoto, Daigohigashiojicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 601-1325, JP
- +8175-571-0002
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to hike to Kami-Daigo, as the trail can be steep and challenging.
- Visit during the spring (late March to early May) or autumn (late October to early December) to experience the temple's renowned cherry blossoms or vibrant fall foliage.
- Check the official website for seasonal events and festivals, such as the cherry blossom viewing parade in April.
- Allow at least half a day to explore the entire Daigo-ji complex, including both Shimo-Daigo and Kami-Daigo.
- Consider purchasing a combined ticket to access multiple areas of Shimo-Daigo, such as Sanboin, the Reihokan Museum, and the Garan.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Yamashina Station (5 minutes, 180 yen) and transfer to the Tozai Subway Line (8 minutes, 260 yen) to Daigo Station. From Daigo Station, it's a 15-minute walk or a short ride on community bus number 4 (210 yen) to Daigo-ji Temple. Alternatively, Keihan Bus number 301 connects Kyoto Station (Hachijo side) with Daigoji once or twice per hour. The one way trip takes 30 minutes and costs 260 yen.
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Taxi
From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Daigo-ji Temple takes approximately 10-15 minutes and costs around 1,500 yen. From Daigo Station, a taxi to Daigo-ji Temple is a short ride, costing approximately 700-800 yen.
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Walking
From Daigo Station (Tozai Subway Line), Daigo-ji Temple is approximately a 15-minute walk. Follow the signs and enjoy the local scenery along the way.
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Parking
Daigo-ji Temple has a parking area with 100 spaces, costing 1,000 yen for 5 hours. An additional 100 yen will be charged every 30 minutes after the first 5 hours. Parking is limited, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, so public transportation is recommended.
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