To-ji Temple

The basics

If you’re arriving in Kyoto by bullet train, keep a look out for the temple’s distinctive five storied pagoda as you whizz past en route to Kyoto Station. The pagoda itself is only open to the public on select days, but there’s plenty to see as you stroll the leafy temple grounds. Visit the Kondo (Main Hall), home to statues including that of Yakushi Nyorai, Buddha of Medicine; peek inside the Kodo (Lecture Hall); visit the To-Ji Treasure Museum to admire the temple’s most priceless artifacts; or join locals to browse the stalls at the temple’s monthly market.

Things to know before you go

*To-ji Temple is one of Kyoto’s most visited attractions and a must for history buffs, photographers, and first-time visitors.

• Entrance to the temple grounds, market, and some buildings is free; admission tickets are required for the Kondo, Kodo, and the museum.
• The Jikido (temple refectory) has a gift shop, luggage storage, and information point; a café and sushi restaurant are located just outside the northeast temple gate.
• The temple complex and most temple buildings are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

To-Ji Temple is located in downtown Kyoto, about a 15-minute walk southwest of Kyoto Station. The closest train station is To-Ji station (Kintetsu-Kyoto Line), just a 2-minute walk from the temple.

When to get there

The temple complex is open daily all year-round, although it’s most beautiful during spring or autumn, with a backdrop of cherry blossoms or fall foliage. By far the most popular time to visit is during the monthly Kobo-ichi flea market, held on the 21st of each month, or the antiques market, held on the first Sunday of the month.

Exploring Kyoto’s Markets

The Kobo-ichi Market at To-Ji Temple is one of Kyoto’s most famous markets. In addition to it being a great place to bag a bargain, it’s an unmissable cultural experience, drawing locals from all around Kyoto. Shoppers should also head to Nishiki Market in the Gion district, where you can sample typical Japanese cuisine and regional specialties; explore the enormous Tenjin-san flea market, held monthly at the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine; or shop for traditional handicrafts and gifts at the Tezukuri-ichi Market, held monthly at Chionji Temple.