Toji Temple

Toji Temple (東寺), officially known as Kyoo Gokoku-ji (教王護国寺), is a Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. It was founded in 796 AD during the Heian period and is one of the oldest and most important temples in Kyoto. Toji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its five-story pagoda, which, at approximately 55 meters (187 feet) tall, is the tallest wooden tower in Japan.

The temple was originally established as a guardian temple for the capital city and was closely associated with the Imperial family. In 823, Emperor Saga bestowed the temple upon Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. Since then, Toji Temple has served as a major center for Shingon Buddhism. Over the centuries, the temple has undergone numerous renovations and additions, and today it boasts a variety of buildings, statues, and other cultural treasures.

One of the highlights of Toji Temple is the Kondo (main hall), where the principal image of worship, a statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha), is enshrined. The Lecture Hall (Kodo) houses 21 statues imported from China by Kobo Daishi, which are arranged in a three-dimensional mandala with Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana) at the center, surrounded by other Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and guardian deities. These statues are designated as National Treasures and represent a pinnacle of esoteric Buddhist art.

Toji Temple is also home to the Kobo-ichi Market, a monthly flea market held on the 21st of each month. At this bustling market, visitors can find a wide array of items, including antiques, handicrafts, clothing, and food. The temple also offers special night-time viewing during spring and autumn, where the illuminated five-story pagoda and Kondo create a magical atmosphere.

Getting there

By Train

From Kyoto Station:

• Take the Kintetsu Line to Toji Station
• 10-minute walk from Toji Station

Alternatively:

• 15-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit

By Bus

Get off at one of these bus stops:

• Toji Minamimon-mae
• Toji Higashimon-mae
• Kujo Omiya
• Toji Nishimon-mae

Details

Hours	Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 5:00 PM Main Hall (Kondo) and Lecture Hall (Kodo): 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Admission closes at 4:30 PM) Kanchi-in: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Admission closes at 4:30 PM) Treasure Museum (Open only during exhibition periods): 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Admission closes at 4:30 PM)
Admission	Free
Phone	+81 75-691-3325
Address	1 Kujocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8473
Official Website	https://toji.or.jp/