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Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, Kyoto

4.3
#24 of 687 in Historic Sites in Kyoto
Religious Site · Hidden Gem · Tourist Spot
Visit the headquarters of a Buddhist sect at Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, a temple bearing the same name as the sect. Established in 1602 by Shogun Tokugawa leyasu when splitting the existing Shin sect in two, the center of Higashi Honganji sits just a few streets to the east of Nishi Honganji, the headquarters of the other faction created after the Shogun's interference. Stroll through the temple's traditional Japanese garden and admire the large wooden structure of the main temple hall, rebuilt in 1895 after a fire burned down the original temple. Plan to visit Higashi Hongan-ji Temple and other customer-reviewed, writer-recommended Kyoto attractions using our Kyoto trip tool.
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Tours to Higashi Hongan-ji Temple

FROM $20 BOOK WITH VIATOR 5-Hour Guided Walking Tour - Walk in Kyoto, Talk in English
4.4
Duration: 5 hours
Tours from $20 »
FROM $131 BOOK WITH VIATOR Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle Walking Tour
4.5
Duration: 7 hours
Tours from $131 »
FROM $109 BOOK WITH VIATOR Living Buddhism
Duration: 3 hours
Tours from $109 »

Higashi Hongan-ji Temple reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.0
745 reviews
Google
4.4
TripAdvisor
  • By Della G
    During our stay in Kyoto, our accommodations were not far from this shin temple. The actual construction of this temple dates back to the mid 1600's. The grounds are extensive and the main hall is.....  more »
  • By Komator
    It's huge, very taken care of. You can visit it as you want, and it's free. It's very well located so you'll cross it sooner or later in Kyoto.  more »
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Google
  • By Kristy Marques
    It is free to enter. You just need to remove your shoes and put them into a plastic bag start in the one infront of you and go clockwise. The detailing is very beautiful. It is very peaceful inside. Make sure to be quiet in respect for those who are praying. There are a few bathrooms on premises and you can walk here from Kyoto station.
  • By TS C
    This place is second to none. On my on my! The temple is huge! One of the largest, if not the largest wooden structure in the world. Definitely a "hidden" gem....... You really can't tell how big this temple is from the outside. Photos cannot do justice. Recommended to go any time but do spend some time inside the building. Its great place to meditate. Don't rush. I can spend whole day.... If there weren't Yodobashi camera 2 minutes away. Bring your super wide angle lens!
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