Introduction｜はじめに
Tō-ji is one of Kyoto’s most famous temples,
located not far from Kyoto Station.
The five-storied pagoda rises quietly above the city,
and has become one of Kyoto’s symbolic landscapes.🌿
🟫 MINI MEMO
Tō-ji was founded in 796,
shortly after the capital moved to Heian-kyō.
In 1994,
it became part of the UNESCO World Heritage site
“Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.”
Nandaimon Gate｜南大門
The Southern Gate is one of the main entrances to Tō-ji.
Passing through the large wooden gate,
the atmosphere slowly changes.
🟫 PHOTO TIP
The pagoda begins to appear beautifully
after passing through the gate.
Five-Storied Pagoda｜五重塔
The five-storied pagoda is the symbol of Tō-ji.
At approximately 55 meters tall,
it is the tallest wooden five-storied pagoda in Japan.
🟫 MINI MEMO
Inside the pagoda,
Buddhist statues are arranged around a central pillar called the shinbashira（心柱）.
Night View of the Pagoda｜夜の五重塔
During cherry blossom season and autumn illuminations,
the pagoda reflection becomes especially beautiful.🌙
🟫 PHOTO TIP
The reflection on the pond changes depending on wind and weather.
Kondō Hall｜金堂
The Kondō is the main hall of Tō-ji.
Yakushi Nyorai,
the Buddha of healing,
is enshrined here.
🟫 REAL INFO
Please speak quietly inside the prayer areas.
Kōdō Hall｜講堂
Inside the Kōdō,
21 Buddhist statues are arranged around Dainichi Nyorai.
This arrangement is known as a three-dimensional mandala.
🟫 MINI MEMO
The Kōdō is often considered the spiritual center of Tō-ji.
Mieidō Hall｜御影堂
Mieidō is dedicated to Kōbō Daishi,
also known as Kūkai.
🟫 CAT MEMO 🐾
“The five-storied pagoda…
was smaller than I expected!”
“It fits perfectly under my paw!”
🗺 Google Map
The pagoda may be the first thing you notice.
But the quiet atmosphere may stay with you longer.🌿
Thank you for visiting Tō-ji.
We hope this quiet Kyoto walk
brings you a peaceful moment too 🐾
🗺 Explore More Kyoto Areas
Kyoto is divided into several unique areas, each offering different attractions and experiences.
