Toji Temple

Toji Temple, officially known as Kyoji Gokokuji, stands in southern Kyoto as Japan's tallest wooden pagoda and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 796 shortly after Kyoto became the imperial capital, the temple was later entrusted to Kobo Daishi (also known as Kukai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism, in 823. This gift from Emperor Saga transformed Toji into one of Japan's most important centers for esoteric Buddhist teaching, a role it maintains over 1,200 years later.

The temple's most iconic feature is its five-story pagoda, reaching 54.8 meters in height. Originally constructed in 826, the current structure dates from 1644 after multiple reconstructions following fires. The pagoda's silhouette has become synonymous with Kyoto's skyline and represents one of the finest examples of Japanese wooden architecture. The temple complex also houses the Kondo (Main Hall) and Kodo (Lecture Hall), both containing exceptional Buddhist statuary including 21 three-dimensional mandalas arranged to represent the cosmic Buddhist universe.

Visitors can explore the temple grounds year-round, with particularly striking views during spring cherry blossom season and autumn when the pagoda is reflected in the temple's pond. The Kondo displays a healing Buddha statue, while the Kodo contains an impressive collection of esoteric Buddhist statues arranged in their original 9th-century configuration. On the 21st of each month, Toji hosts the Kobo-san Market, one of Kyoto's largest flea markets with over 1,000 vendors selling antiques, crafts, food, and clothing.

Toji Temple is located approximately 1 kilometer southwest of Kyoto Station, making it easily accessible on foot in about 15 minutes. Alternatively, take the Kintetsu Kyoto Line one stop to Toji Station, from which the temple is a short walk. City buses 16, 19, 42, and 78 also stop near the temple. Admission to the temple grounds costs ¥500 for adults, with an additional ¥300 fee to enter the Kondo and Kodo halls. Special viewing periods for the pagoda interior occasionally occur during spring and autumn, requiring separate admission.