Daigo-ji, Settsu Travel Guide

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Explore Kyoto's Daigo-ji Temple: A historic Buddhist site with stunning architecture, serene gardens, and mountain views.

Daigo-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, is a sprawling temple complex dating back to the 9th century. Divided into two main areas, Shimo-Daigo (lower) and Kami-Daigo (upper), it features ancient buildings, stunning gardens, and a serene mountain atmosphere, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Daigo-ji

22 Daigohigashiojicho, Kyoto, Daigohigashiojicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 601-1325, JP
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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

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to hike to Kami-Daigo, as the trail can be steep and challenging.
Check the seasonal opening hours, as they vary slightly depending on the time of year.
Visit during the cherry blossom season (early April) or autumn foliage (late November) for the most breathtaking views.
Consider purchasing a combination ticket to access multiple areas of Shimo-Daigo, including Sanbo-in, the Reihokan Museum, and Garan.
Allow at least one hour to explore Shimo-Daigo and at least three hours if you plan to hike to Kami-Daigo.

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Explore Daigo-ji on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Daigo-ji, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Kyoto Station, take the JR Biwako Line or Kosei Line to Yamashina Station (5 minutes, ¥180). Transfer to the Tozai Subway Line and get off at Daigo Station (8 minutes, ¥260). From Daigo Station, it's a 15-minute walk to Daigo-ji Temple. Alternatively, take community bus number 4 from Daigo Station (¥210, every 30 minutes).
Bus

From Kyoto Station (Hachijo side), take Keihan Bus number 301 directly to Daigo-ji Temple (30 minutes, ¥260). The bus runs once or twice per hour. Get off at the Daigoji bus stop.
Taxi

From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Daigo-ji Temple takes approximately 10-15 minutes and costs around ¥4,000-¥4,800. Alternatively, from Daigo Station, a short taxi ride to the temple is also an option.
Driving

Daigo-ji Temple is located southeast of Kyoto. Parking is available near the temple, but spaces are limited, especially on weekends. Parking fees are charged by the hour, with increasing rates after 5 hours. Consider using public transportation, especially on Saturdays and Sundays.

Discover more about Daigo-ji

Daigo-ji Temple, nestled in the Fushimi district of Kyoto, is a significant temple with a history spanning over 1,200 years. Founded in 874 by Shobo, a Buddhist monk, the temple is divided into two main areas: Shimo-Daigo at the base of the mountain and Kami-Daigo on the summit of Mt. Daigo. Shimo-Daigo is easily accessible and houses several key structures, including the Kondo (main hall) and a five-story pagoda built in 951, the oldest wooden structure in Kyoto. Sanbo-in Temple, known for its exquisite gardens designed in the Momoyama period, is also located here. The Reihokan Museum preserves and exhibits the temple's vast collection of historical documents and art objects.Kami-Daigo, the original site of the temple, requires a more challenging hike to reach. The Juntei Hall stands where the original 9th-century hermitage once stood. The ascent is rewarded with tranquil scenery, mountain views, and a sense of peacefulness.Daigo-ji played an important role in the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism and became an influential temple with followers including emperors and military leaders. Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a key figure in Japanese history, contributed to the temple's restoration in the 16th century and famously held a cherry blossom viewing party here in 1598. The temple is renowned for its cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, drawing visitors year-round.