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Higashi Honganji Temple (東本願寺) is a major Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. It serves as the headquarters of the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha school of Buddhism, one of the largest Buddhist denominations in Japan. The temple was originally founded in 1602 and relocated to its present location in 1617.
The main hall of the temple, called the Goeido (御影堂), is one of the largest wooden structures in the world and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Built in the 17th century, it is renowned for its intricate carvings and decorations. The temple complex also includes several other important buildings, such as the Amida-do Hall, which also houses an Amida Buddha statue, the Amida-do Gate, a designated Important Cultural Property, the Hiunkaku pavilion, designated as a National Treasure, and the white and black Shoin (study halls), both of which are also Important Cultural Properties. The large Onedono, an Edo-period shoin-style building, is also an Important Cultural Property.
Higashi Honganji Temple is known for its emphasis on the teachings of Shinran, the founder of the Jodo Shinshu sect of Buddhism. The temple’s mission is to spread Shinran’s teachings, particularly the concept of “Aku-nin Shoki” (salvation of the fundamentally evil person), emphasizing that anyone can attain salvation through reciting the Nembutsu (Buddhist invocation).
The temple is open to the public and welcomes visitors to explore its various buildings and grounds. Guided tours and Buddhist ceremonies are available for those who wish to learn more about the temple and its teachings. The temple also hosts a number of cultural events throughout the year, such as traditional Japanese festivals and music performances.
Getting there
From Kyoto Station to Higashi Honganji Temple:
| Walk | About 5 minutes (350 m) |
Details
| Hours | March to October / 5:50 AM – 5:30 PM November to February / 6:20 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Admission | Free |
| Phone | +81 75-371-9181 |
| Address | Karasuma Shichi-jō Agaru, Shimogyō-ku, Kyoto 600-8505, Japan |
| Official Website | http://english.higashihonganji.or.jp/english_top/ |
