🏯 Introducing the charms of To-ji Temple in Kyoto!

Toji Temple (Kyoogokokuji Temple) is the head temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism located in Minami Ward, Kyoto City, and is a famous temple registered as a World Heritage Site. It was built as a guardian of the eastern side of Heian-kyo when the capital was moved to Heian-kyo in 794, and is a historic temple that was used as a religious base by Kobo Daishi Kukai. 🕰️ History of Toji Temple • Founded: The temple was built in 794 by order of Emperor Kanmu. • Kukai's involvement: In 823, Kukai was given Toji Temple and developed it as the center of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. Since then, it has flourished as the head temple of the Shingon sect. • Cultural properties: There are many buildings and Buddhist statues designated as national treasures and important cultural properties. It is also known as a place of learning and training where the spirit of Kukai lives on. 🌟 Highlights 1. Five-story pagoda • The tallest wooden structure in Japan (55m) • The five-story pagoda is the symbol of Toji Temple. It blends in with the scenery of the four seasons, and the contrast with the cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves is particularly spectacular. • Special interior opening • The interior of the five-story pagoda is open to the public several times a year, allowing visitors to see the Buddha statues and decorations up close. 2. Kondo • The main image of Yakushi Nyorai • The Kondo, designated as a national treasure, houses a group of impressive Buddha statues, centered around Yakushi Nyorai. It is a sacred space where you can experience the teachings of Kukai. 3. Lecture hall • Three-dimensional mandala • A space lined with 21 Buddha statues that express Kukai's ideas. It is a valuable exhibit that allows you to visually understand the teachings of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. 4. Garden • A beautiful garden with autumn leaves and cherry blossoms • The grounds are filled with nature in every season. It is especially famous for its autumn leaves in autumn and cherry blossoms in spring. The temple is also lit up, creating a fantastic atmosphere. 🛍️ Toji Temple's Kobo Market (Fair) • On the 21st of every month, a festival known as "Kobo Market" is held. In honor of Kukai, the market attracts many worshippers and tourists, and becomes a bustling market filled with antiques, crafts, and local specialties. • Recommended food: You can try pickles and Japanese sweets that are unique to Kyoto! ⏰ Visiting Information • Visiting hours: • Temple grounds: 5:00-17:00 • Main hall and lecture hall: 8:00-17:00 (last admission at 16:30) • Admission fee: • Temple grounds are free • Main hall and lecture hall: 800 yen (additional fees may apply during special public viewings) • Illumination: 1,000 yen (seasonal) 🚗 Access • Location: 1 Kujo-cho, Minami-ku, Kyoto • Transportation: • About 15 minutes walk from JR Kyoto Station. • About 5 minutes by city bus from Kyoto Station, immediately after getting off at Toji bus stop. • About 5 minutes by taxi from Kyoto Station Hachijo Exit. 🍁 How to spend time at Toji Temple 1. Visit early in the morning and stroll around the five-story pagoda and gardens in a quiet atmosphere. 2. Take your time to appreciate the Buddha statues and mandalas in the Kondo and Kodo. 3. If you're visiting on the 21st, enjoy souvenir shopping and gourmet food at Kobo Market. 4. Don't miss the autumn and spring illuminations! You can enjoy a fantastic landscape that is different from the daytime. 🌟 Summary Toji Temple is a special space where historical buildings, the spirit of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, and the nature of the four seasons are in harmony. It is a spot where you can spend a quiet and deep time while sightseeing in Kyoto. Be sure to visit and enjoy the teachings of Kukai and the beauty of Japan! #DomesticTravelRecord #Trip #SoloTrip #Kyoto #Kyoto #KyotoTourism