To-ji Temple
The 5-story 57 meter high pagoda has long served as a city landmark and a vibrant center for spiritual and community life. On the 21st of each month, a large flea market (Kobo-san market) is held on the grounds of To-ji Temple, drawing vendors from all over Japan. Handicrafts, antique clothing and furniture, children's toys, plants and food are available in abundance.
To fulfill an Imperial decree to protect the city, To-ji temple was built in 794. In 823 it changed hands from the emperor to the Shingon sect of Buddhism's originator, Kobo Daishi. The lecture hall contains 21 striking mandala images which encode Shingon teachings, while the main hall of the temple contains a blend of Chinese, Indian, and Japanese architectural styles, as well as statues of healing Buddhas.
* Address: 1 Kujo-cho Minami-ku, Kyoto
* Tel.: 075-691-3325 Fax: 075-662-0250
* Access: 5-minute walk from Kintetsu Railway To-ji Station, City Bus Stop To-ji-higashimon-mae, 15-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station Hachijo-guchi exit
* Parking:30 buses/2000 yen
150cars/600 yen (2hrs)
Taxis/400 yen
* Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
* Hours:8:30 - 17:30 (March 20)(September 20 -16:30)
* Closed: Open year round
* Entrance Fee:
Adults 500 yen
High School Students 400 yen
Junior High/Elementary School Students 300 yen
