Where You Can Witness Japan’s Tallest Pagoda, Ancient Statues, and Monthly Markets
🌟 Overview
To-ji Temple (東寺), officially named Kyo-o-gokokuji, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just south of Kyoto Station.
Founded in 796 AD, it’s one of Kyoto’s oldest temples and a key center for Shingon Buddhism, established by the legendary monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi).
The temple is most famous for its towering Five-Story Pagoda, standing at 55 meters — the tallest wooden structure in Japan. But beyond the iconic skyline, To-ji offers a deep spiritual atmosphere, magnificent statues, and one of Kyoto’s best monthly flea markets.
🔭 Highlights & Attractions
🗼 Five-Story Pagoda (Goju-no-to)
Kyoto’s symbolic tower and the tallest pagoda in Japan. You can view the interior during special openings (limited dates).
🛕 Kondo Hall (Main Hall)
Houses a majestic seated Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha) flanked by Bodhisattvas — a powerful space for spiritual reflection.
🔥 Lecture Hall (Kodo)
Home to 21 incredible statues including Dainichi Nyorai at the center — forming a three-dimensional Mandala that represents cosmic truth.
🧧 Kobo-san Market (21st of Every Month)
One of Kyoto’s biggest and most colorful flea markets. Local crafts, antiques, clothes, and street food draw thousands of visitors.
🗺️ Temple Zones
| Area | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Five-Story Pagoda | Symbol of Kyoto, stunning during cherry blossom season |
| Kondo (Main Hall) | Yakushi Buddha, calm and sacred space |
| Kodo (Lecture Hall) | 3D Mandala of powerful Buddhist statues |
| Gardens & Pathways | Peaceful strolls with seasonal flowers |
| Kobo-san Market Area | Lively stalls on the 21st of each month |
🎟️ Admission & Hours
| Area | Fee |
|---|---|
| Temple Grounds | Free |
| Lecture Hall & Main Hall | ¥500 (combined) |
| Pagoda Interior (special dates only) | +¥800 (when available) |
🕒 Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM)
🗓️ Open Daily
🛍️ Kobo-san Market: 21st monthly, 9:00 AM – around 4:00 PM
🚨 Visitor Tips
- 📷 Photography is not allowed inside halls
- 🌸 Pagoda is especially beautiful in spring and during evening light-ups
- 🧘 Don’t miss the 3D Mandala — it’s visually and spiritually striking
- 🛍️ Visit on the 21st to experience a lively mix of spirituality and shopping
- 💴 Cash only at many stalls and for temple tickets
🚉 Access
- 🚉 Kyoto Station – 15 min walk
- 🚉 Toji Station (Kintetsu Line) – 5 min walk
📍 Easy to visit on arrival/departure day due to proximity to Kyoto Station
🍱 Nearby Food Picks
- Kyoto Ramen Street (Inside Kyoto Station)
🍜 Multiple ramen shops – perfect before/after your visit
📍 Kyoto Station, Isetan 10F - Toji Temple Snack Stalls (Market Day Only)
🍢 Local street food: takoyaki, grilled mochi, taiyaki
📍 Temple grounds during Kobo-san Market - Café Sils Maria
☕ Peaceful café with matcha desserts and lunch plates
📍 5 min from To-ji Temple
🔁 Sample Plan: “Cultural Morning Near Kyoto Station”
🕐 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- 🛕 Start at Kondo Hall and feel the temple’s calm
- 🔥 Enter Kodo Hall and observe the 3D Mandala
- 🗼 Walk around the Five-Story Pagoda
- 🛍️ Visit Kobo-san Market (if it’s the 21st)
- 🍜 Have lunch at Kyoto Ramen Street nearby
📍 Address & Contact
Address
1 Kujocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto 601-8473, Japan
Phone
📞 +81-75-691-3325
Official Website
🌐 https://toji.or.jp/