Higashi Hongan-ji Temple
東本願寺
Headquarters of Otani-ha branch of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. Features Goei-do Hall - one of world's largest wooden structures with massive interior space. Impressive temple gate. Free admission. Very close to Kyoto Station, perfect for arrival/departure day visits.
Highlights & Must-See Features
- Goei-do Hall - one of world's largest wooden structures
- Massive temple gates
- Free admission
- Closest major temple to Kyoto Station
- Beautiful autumn ginkgo trees
- Impressive interior space
📍 How to Get There
Nearest Station
Kyoto Station - 10 minutes walk north
Step-by-Step Directions
- 1 From Kyoto Station: Walk 10 minutes north on Karasuma-dori
- 2 From Kyoto Station: Bus 5, 26, 101 to Karasuma Shomen (3 min)
- 3 Closest major temple to Kyoto Station
- 4 Easy combination with Nishi Hongan-ji (10 min walk west)
Location & Maps
🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
34.991493 135.758662 💡 Tip: "View Location" shows the temple on the map. "Get Directions" navigates from your current position.
Best Time to Visit
Morning or late afternoon. Perfect for arrival/departure day when staying near Kyoto Station. Less touristy, more local atmosphere. Autumn ginkgo trees beautiful.
Contact & Info
Karasuma-dori Shichijo-agaru, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, 600-8505
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Nearby Temples & Shrines
These sacred sites are closest to Higashi Hongan-ji Temple and easy to combine in a single visit.
Nishi Hongan-ji Temple
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Free admission (special garden tours by reservation, 1,000 yen) · 45 minutes to 1 hour (2 hours with garden tour)
Sanjusangendo Temple
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600 yen adults, 400 yen junior high/high school, 300 yen children · 45 minutes to 1 hour (allow time to appreciate each statue section)
To-ji Flea Market (Kobo-san)
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Free market entry (temple grounds have separate admission) · 1.5-3 hours (easy to spend a full morning)
To-ji Temple
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500 yen temple and garden, special exhibitions 1,000 yen · 1 hour (3+ hours on flea market day 21st)
Rokkaku-do Temple
六角堂
Free · 15-20 minutes
Kennin-ji Temple
建仁寺
600 yen adults, 300 yen junior high/elementary students · 45 minutes to 1 hour