Nishi Hongan-ji Temple

西本願寺

UNESCO World Heritage temple, headquarters of Jodo Shinshu Honganji sect. Massive complex with ornate Karamon gate (National Treasure) featuring intricate carvings. Founder's Hall (Goei-do) is one of world's largest wooden structures. Free admission, peaceful despite downtown location.

Visit: 45 minutes to 1 hour (2 hours with garden tour)

Entrance: Free admission (special garden tours by reservation, 1,000 yen)

Hours: 5:30 AM - 5:30 PM (buildings close at 5:00 PM)

Highlights & Must-See Features

Karamon gate with intricate carvings (National Treasure)
Goei-do (Founder's Hall) - one of world's largest wooden buildings
UNESCO World Heritage site
Beautiful ginkgo trees (November)
Ornate Amida Hall
Hidden gardens (by reservation)
Free admission

📍 How to Get There

Nearest Station

Kyoto Station - 15 minutes walk north

Step-by-Step Directions

1 From Kyoto Station: Walk 15 minutes north along Horikawa-dori
2 From Kyoto Station: Bus 9, 28, 75 to Nishi Honganji-mae (5 min)
3 Very close to Kyoto Station - easy first or last temple visit
4 Walking distance from Higashi Hongan-ji (10 minutes east)

Location & Maps

🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Latitude: 34.991371

Longitude: 135.751902

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Best Time to Visit

Early morning for peaceful atmosphere. Ginkgo trees in late November spectacular. Less crowded than major temples. Special garden tours (reservation required) show hidden National Treasures.