Chion-in Temple

知恩院

Headquarters of Jodo Buddhism (Pure Land sect) and one of Kyoto's grandest temples. Features Japan's largest wooden temple gate (Sanmon, 24m high, National Treasure). The massive 74-ton bell requires 17 monks to ring it on New Year's Eve. Founded 1234 on site where Honen taught.

Visit: 1 hour (add 30 minutes for gardens, 30 minutes for Sanmon gate climb)

Entrance: Temple grounds free, Hojo gardens 400 yen (seasonal), Sanmon gate climb 800 yen (when open)

Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (gardens), main halls and grounds accessible earlier

Highlights & Must-See Features

Largest temple gate in Japan - Sanmon (24m high, National Treasure)
Japan's heaviest bell - 74 tons (largest in Japan)
Beautiful Hojo gardens with pond and seasonal flowers
Nightingale floors (uguisubari) - security squeaking floors
New Year's Eve bell ceremony (broadcast on TV)
Massive main hall (Mieido) - largest wooden building in Kyoto

📍 How to Get There

Nearest Station

Higashiyama Station (Tozai Subway) - 8 minutes walk

Step-by-Step Directions

1 From Kyoto Station: Bus 206 to Chion-in-mae stop (20 minutes)
2 From Higashiyama Station: 8 minute walk east and uphill
3 From Gion: 5 minute walk north through Maruyama Park
4 Adjacent to Maruyama Park and near Yasaka Shrine

Location & Maps

🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Latitude: 35.005493

Longitude: 135.781914

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Best Time to Visit

Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) spectacular. Autumn foliage (November). New Year's Eve to hear 108 bell strikes (joya-no-kane ritual). Early morning for peaceful grounds.