Toji Temple: Kyoto’s Five-storied Pagoda & Buddha Masterpiece

As a UNESCO World Heritage site in Japan, Toji Temple is not only known as the iconic symbol of Kyoto, but it is also one of the oldest temples in Kyoto. You can see it from the Shinkansen bound for Kyoto, and it is close to Kyoto Station, which can be conveniently visited.

About 20,000 national treasures and important cultural properties are housed here, including the five-story pagoda, which can be the mecca for history buffs. Apart from that, there are many seasonal highlights; it can be the best place to view Kyoto cherry blossoms and the fascinating fall foliage in autumn. Moreover, one of the largest markets in Kyoto is held on the 21st day of each month, when you can catch a glimpse of Kyoto’s history and culture.

Explore this iconic temple in Kyoto with this professional tour guide. Delve into its quaint vibe and further understand more about its history, architecture, and seasonal highlights!

History of To-ji Kyoto

As one of the oldest temples in Kyoto, Kyoto Toji Temple's history dates back over 1,200 years, and it was originally considered the guardian temple to protect the eastern side of the capital. Therefore, Toji Temple is also called East Temple, built on the eastern entrance of Kyoto city. There was a West Temple on the other side, but it was not rebuilt. There are only some stone tablets left now.

Top Attractions & Highlights at Toji Temple Kyoto

Kondo Hall (The Golden Hall)

When stepping into Kyoto Toji Temple, Kondo Hall will be the first building that comes into view. The Kondo Hall is the main hall of the Toji Temple, as well as the largest building in the temple. Like most of the old buildings in Japan, the hall once went through fire as well, and then it was rebuilt in 1603. There are 3 statues, including Yakushi Nyorai, Nikko Bosatsu, and Gakko Bosatsu, which have been viewed as the Important Cultural Properties. According to Buddhism, Bosatsu enlightens human beings. Therefore, numerous people come here to pray for their spiritual and physical health.

Kodo Hall (The Lecture Hall)

The Kodo Hall, also renowned as the lecture hall, stands behind the Kondo Main Hall. The hall was destroyed by the fire and later rebuilt based on its original appearance and style. 21 statues of Buddha, Bosatsu, and guardian deities are enshrined here, among which 16 items are designated as the national treasures. Their exquisite workmanship impresses people. And the Kodo Hall has been an important cultural property nowadays.

Five-Story Pagoda

Not only is the Five-Story Pagoda an iconic landmark in Kyoto, but it is also the most important building in Toji. Reaching 55 meters, the pagoda is the tallest wooden structure in Japan and is designated as a national treasure. It was once struck and burned by lightning, and later underwent reconstruction.

The pagoda enshrines 4 statues of Buddha, facing four directions, and 8 Bodhisattvas. Colorful paintings on the walls and ceiling create a mysterious vibe. And its 1st floor is only open to the public in spring and autumn.

Festivals& Cultural Experiences

Distinctive Omamori

Aside from diverse kinds of seasonal highlights at the temple, distinctive omamori also grab people’s attention. Various kinds of amulets are said to bring some good luck in health, love, career, and fulfilling desires. There are also 9 types of limited goshuins during Kyoto Toji Temple illumination. These adorable things are regarded as top choices as souvenirs.

The Popular Flea Market in Kyoto

The Koboichi Market (also known as Kobo-ichi Market or Kobo-san) is held on the 21st day of each month, when the temple’s grounds will turn into a small market with over 1,000 colorful stalls. This Toji Temple event has evolved into one of Kyoto’s largest and three major markets nowadays, with a history of more than 750 years. As part of a religious festival, the market is held on this day to commemorate Kukai, a famous Buddhist saint in Japan.

In Toji Temple flea market, you will find an enormous variety of clothes, arts and crafts, potteries, and plants. If your Kyoto tour happens to be around the 21st day, do not miss this cultural experience in Kyoto. Hang out and pick up something you prefer as souvenirs while diving into its vibrant atmosphere.

Delightful Kyoto Cuisine

As the market evolves, a variety of vendors, selling sorts of Kyoto street foods, will gather here as well. In addition to assorted unique treasures, travelers can hunt for a quick bite to savor the authentic Kyoto flavors and boost their energy in one of the three major markets in Kyoto. Snacks, like yaki mochi (mugwort cakes), yaki bamboo shoots (grilled bamboo shoots), takoyaki (octopus balls), and yakisoba (fried noodles), are popular among locals and tourists.

Best Time to Visit Toji Temple

The best time to visit Toji Temple in Kyoto is in spring and autumn. Tō-ji Temple is considered one of Kyoto’s top hanami spots, and its cherry blossom season falls in the middle of March and April, when about 200 cherry trees compete for beauty. Taking a stroll at the temple while appreciating the weeping cherry above the pond can be one of the top things to do in Kyoto.

Not only is its spring enchanting, but Toji temple in Kyoto in autumn also attracts numerous citizens and tourists to admire its beauty. In the fall, lush maple trees inside the temple are gradually dyed red, and travelers can wander around the incredible beauty.

Toji Temple at night is also suitable for viewing, especially during the special night illumination period in spring and autumn, from the middle of March to the middle of April, and from late October to early December. Visiting on the 21st of any month is also advisable for the lively Kyoto Toji Temple flea market. 

How to Get to Toji Temple Kyoto

By Train

JR Railway to Hachijo Exit of Kyoto Station (a short distance from Toji Temple)
JR Railway to Hachijo Exit of Kyoto Station, then transfer to the city bus Route 16/19/71 and get off at the Toji Higashimon Mae Stop (a short distance)
Kintetsu Railway to Toji Station (10-minute walk)
Keihan Railway to Tambabashi Station and transfer to Kintetsu Tambabashi Station (10-minute walk from Toji Station)

By Bus

City bus Route 17/71/207 to Toji Higashimon Mae Stop (a short distance)
City bus the 78/19/42 line to Toji Minamimonmae
City bus the 16 line to Toji Nishimonmae

By Car

Take the National Route 1 from Kyoto Minami IC

Note:
Parking rates: (rates will apply during the New Year special viewing period)
600 yen/2 hours for a private car and taxi
200 yen/2 hours for motorcycles
2,000 yen/2hours for a large bus

Essential Guide for Visiting Toji Temple

Opening Hours

Tickets

There are different types of tickets to meet various needs. More detailed Toji Temple entrance fees are as follows:

Insider Tips

1. Photography is prohibited inside the main halls.
2. Early mornings are recommended to visit the Toji Temple to enjoy a peaceful trip.
3. The Toji Temple flea market held on the 21st of each month will offer you some treasures and palatable street food.
4. The five-story pagoda reflecting on the pond offers you a stunning picture at sunrise or sunset.
5. The garden inside the temple provides your viewfinder with the best view of Toji Temple.
6. Take the ride on the Tokaido Shinkansen on the way from Tokyo to Kyoto, seat A can help you capture the five-story pagoda, and seat E on the way from Osaka to Kyoto also works.

Nearby Attractions

Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower will be the first thing that comes into view when you step out of Kyoto Station. As the tallest building in Kyoto, it reaches 131 meters high, with the observation deck, where you are provided with a panorama of the Kyoto cityscape. On clear days, you can even look far over Osaka.

Kyoto National Museum

As the Imperial Museum of Kyoto, Kyoto National Museum houses a collection of more than 14,000 art and cultural properties from Japan and East Asian, which can be a paradise and must-see Kyoto attraction for art fanciers. Two exhibition halls exist, one of which is designated as the Important Cultural Property and another one as the Museum of Modern Art.

Higashi Honganji Temple

Higashi Honganji Temple, also called Shinshu Hongyo, is the head temple of the Shinshu Otani sect. Enshrined with Shinran Shonin, the founder of the Jodo Shin sect, the Mieido was the largest wooden building in the world. And its beautiful garden boasts a national place, featuring the stunning scenery.

Kyoto Aquarium

Known as the Sea of Kyoto, visitors can gain an immersive experience, like being underwater. The large-scale aquarium houses 15,000 creatures, with 250 various species, where you can get close to see, touch, and interact with the ecosystem. There are workshops and various programs, which enable you to get a deeper understanding of marine life.

Tofukuji Temple

As one of the largest Zen temples in Kyoto, Tofukuji Temple is also renowned for its breathtaking autumn landscape, with gradient autumn colors from yellow to red. In the fall, Tofukuji will be packed with people from Japan and abroad coming for its autumn colors. The most popular one belongs to the view of Tsutenkyo Bridge, filled with lush maple trees from mid-November to late November.

1-Day Kyoto Itinerary including Toji Temple

Start your first station of your Kyoto tour from Fushimi Inari Shrine to feel its magnificence brought by thousands of torri gates. After having lunch around central Kyoto, head to Toji Temple and explore more national treasures. Then go to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of the most appealing temples in Kyoto, to end your day tour.

FAQs about Toji Temple Kyoto

1. Is Toji Temple free to visit?

It is not free for all areas, like Kondo Hall, Kodo Hall, and the inside pagoda. Temple grounds and the Miedo Hall and Jikido are free throughout the year.

2. How long is the average visiting time at Toji Temple?

2-3 hours are recommended in special opening periods in spring and autumn to visit the Treasure Museum and other temples.

3. How many meters tall is the five-story pagoda?

The five-storied pagoda is 55 meters tall, which was rebuilt in 1644, and it is the tallest five-storied pagoda in Japan.

4. Can I visit the interior of the five-story pagoda?

The first floor of its interior is only open to the public during the New Year and some special exhibitions and opening periods in spring and autumn, which usually last about one week.

5. What time does the Kobo Market usually start?

Shops at the market one by one begin to open at 5:00 am, and almost all stores are open at about 8:00 am. They close at around 4:00 pm.

6. Is it better to go to Toji Temple in the morning or at night?

Morning is for stunning landscapes in their best viewing periods, and night is for a peaceful atmosphere to avoid crowds with an illuminated pagoda.

7. Can I walk from Kyoto Station to Toji Temple?

It takes you about 15 minutes to walk from Kyoto Station to Toji Temple, or you can take the bus from the Hachijo Exit of Kyoto Station to the temple.

8. Is the illumination worth visiting?

Definitely worth it! The illumination at Toji Temple will leave you with an unforgettable impression and bring you a magical experience, with its colorful architecture.

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