Chionin Temple

Chionin Temple (知恩院) is a Buddhist temple located in Higashiyama, Kyoto, Japan. It is the head temple of the Jodo-shu (Pure Land) sect of Buddhism, one of the largest Buddhist sects in Japan. Founded in 1175 by Honen, the temple is known for its beautiful architecture, expansive grounds, and large-scale religious ceremonies.

The main hall of the temple, called the Mieido (御影堂), is one of the largest wooden buildings in Japan and is a designated National Treasure. Built in 1636, the hall houses a statue of Honen, the founder of the Jodo-shu sect, as well as other important Buddhist statues. The Amida-do hall (阿弥陀堂), dedicated to Amida Buddha, is another important structure and is designated as an Important Cultural Property.

One of the most notable features of Chionin Temple is its massive Sanmon Gate (三門), counted among the three largest gates in Japan and recognized as an Important Cultural Property.

Chionin Temple is also renowned for its beautiful gardens, which include a stroll garden (Hojo Garden) and a dry landscape garden (Yuzen-en Garden). The Hojo Garden, a pond stroll garden created in the early Muromachi period, is designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty. The Yuzen-en Garden is a dry landscape garden known for its striking contrast between white sand and green moss.

Visitors to Chionin Temple can explore the vast temple grounds and numerous buildings, participate in guided tours, and witness Buddhist ceremonies. The temple also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as traditional Japanese festivals and music performances. Additionally, Chionin Temple is steeped in folklore, with seven legends known as the “Seven Mysteries of Chion-in,” adding an air of mystery and intrigue to the temple’s history.

Getting there

By Bus

From Kyoto Station:

• Take City Bus No. 206
• Journey time: 23 minutes
• Get off at Chion-in-mae bus stop
• 5-minute walk to the temple

By Train

From Kyoto Station:

1. Take Karasuma Line subway to Karasuma Oike (6 minutes)
2. Transfer to Tozai Line to Higashiyama Station (5 minutes)
3. 8-minute walk to the temple

By Taxi

From Kyoto Station:

• Journey time: About 15 minutes

Details

Hours	9:00 AM – 4:30 PM Reception closes at 3:50 PM
Admission	Yūzen’en Garden Adults: 300 yen Elementary and junior high school students: 150 yen. Hōjō Garde Adults: 400 yen Elementary and junior high school students: 200 yen Both Gardens Adults: 500 yen Elementary and junior high school students: 250 yen
Phone	+81 75-531-2111
Address	400 Rinkacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-8686
Official Website	https://www.chion-in.or.jp/