Nishi-Hongan-ji Temple

  • Kyoto
  • Sightseeing
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter

A UNESCO World Heritage site and the head temple of the Honganji school of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. The "Karamon" gate, featuring Momoyama culture's finest, is also called "Higurashi-no-mon" (Sunset Gate) because its intricate carvings keep viewers captivated until dark. Two giant main halls stand in the vast grounds, and their gold-shining interiors offer an experience of the beauty of Buddhist paradise. The approximately 400-year-old "Sakasa Icho" (Inverted Ginkgo) tree turning golden in autumn is a masterpiece. It is one of Kyoto's representative sanctuaries where gorgeous art and deep faith unite.

Nishi-Hongan-ji Temple
Favorite
西本願寺　御影堂から阿弥陀堂へ渡る（冒頭部分）

西本願寺　御影堂から阿弥陀堂へ渡る（冒頭部分）

Nishi Hongan-ji Temple

西本願寺　境内の見どころ（冒頭部分）

西本願寺　境内の見どころ（冒頭部分）

Nishi Hongan-ji Temple

Nishi-Hongan-ji Temple

Address
Honganji Monzen-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto
Website
https://www.hongwanji.kyoto/
Operator
Nishi Hongan-ji Temple

Nearby Spots

Hongan-ji Dendo-in
Kyoto

Hongan-ji Dendo-in

A masterpiece of Meiji-era eclectic architecture standing near Nishi-Hongan-ji. Its exterior, reminiscent of brick Saracenic style or Indian architecture, stands out uniquely among the traditional Kyo-machiya townhouses. Featuring humorous monster stone statues around the roof, it is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. You can feel the flexible spirit of that time that transcended the boundaries of Buddhist temples and enjoy modern design beauty; it is a photogenic hideaway telling the layers of Kyoto's diverse history.

  • Kyoto
  • Sightseeing
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter
Higashi-Hongan-ji Temple
Kyoto

Higashi-Hongan-ji Temple

The head temple of the Otani school of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, located near Kyoto Station. The "Goei-do," one of the world's largest wooden buildings, overwhelms visitors with its staggering scale and heavy construction. The golden interior decorations and exquisite carvings tell of the pinnacle of traditional Japanese woodworking techniques. The display of "Kezuna" (hair ropes) made of human hair and hemp, once used to transport giant timbers for construction, allows you to touch the deep faith of people from that time. It is a powerful place where you can feel the immense architectural energy right at the gateway to Kyoto.

  • Kyoto
  • Sightseeing
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter
Kyoto Station Area
Kyoto

Kyoto Station Area

The area around Kyoto Station, the gateway to Kyoto, is an energetic area where the latest urban functions and historical spots intersect. The station itself is a modern piece of architecture like a giant art work, offering a panoramic city view from the rooftop. Nearby are "To-ji" with the world's tallest wooden structure, and "Nishi-Hongan-ji" and "Higashi-Hongan-ji" with overwhelming giant wooden buildings, allowing you to touch the scale of Kyoto's history immediately upon arrival. Also gathering Kyoto Tower, latest shopping malls, and countless restaurants, it is a very convenient area for all travelers who want to efficiently enjoy both convenience...

  • Kyoto
  • Sightseeing
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter
To-ji Temple
Kyoto

To-ji Temple

To-ji, whose symbol is the Five-storied Pagoda (National Treasure) towering over Kyoto's gateway, is the central monastery of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism entrusted to Kukai (Kobo Daishi) 1,200 years ago. The interior of the pagoda, Japan's tallest wooden tower, and the "Three-dimensional Mandala" of 21 statues in the Lecture Hall captivate visitors with overwhelming power and exquisite beauty. It is a precious remnant of the Heian period capital and a World Heritage site. Every 21st, the "Kobo-san" flea market is held, bustling with international travelers seeking antiques and traditional crafts. It is a temple symbolizing Kyoto where deep faith meets local...

  • Kyoto
  • Sightseeing
  • Spring
  • Summer
  • Autumn
  • Winter
Kyotoに戻る