# Daigo-ji

> A sprawling World Heritage Site famous for Toyotomi Hideyoshi's legendary 1598 cherry blossom viewing party and Kyoto's oldest wooden structure, the five-story pagoda.

- Prefecture: Kyoto
- Type: Temple
- Address: Kyoto, Japan
- Admission: 1000 yen
- Official site: https://www.daigoji.or.jp/en/

Shingon Buddhist temple founded 874 by the monk Shobo on Mount Daigo. Sprawls across an entire mountainside, split into lower Daigo and upper Daigo, connected by a steep trail. The five-story pagoda (951) is Kyoto's oldest surviving wooden structure, National Treasure. Best known for Hideyoshi's 1598 cherry blossom party, for which he planted 700 trees. Now 800+ cherry trees bloom each spring. The Sanboin sub-temple has a garden designed under Hideyoshi's direction: 800+ stones and a pond.

## FAQ

### How do I get to Daigo-ji?

Take the Tozai subway from Kyoto Station to Daigo Station (about 25 minutes including a transfer at Karasuma-Oike, 320 yen), then walk 10 minutes east. By taxi from JR Yamashina Station, it's about 15 minutes. The temple sprawls across a mountain. Lower Daigo (Shimo Daigo) is closest to the bus stop, while Upper Daigo (Kami Daigo) requires a 1-hour mountain hike from the lower temple.

### What's included in the 1,000 yen ticket?

Adult admission is 1,000 yen for a 'Shimo Daigo' combo covering Sanboin garden, Reihokan treasure hall, and Garan area (with the National Treasure five-story pagoda from 951, Kyoto's oldest wooden building). During cherry blossom and autumn periods, the price rises to 1,500 yen. Upper Daigo entrance is an additional 600 yen and requires a 1-hour mountain hike. Cash and major cards accepted.

### When is the best time to visit Daigo-ji?

Early April for cherry blossoms (over 800 trees, including a famous 1.5-week earlier-than-most weeping cherry at the Reihokan), commemorating Hideyoshi's 1598 hanami party, illuminated at night. Mid-November for vivid autumn foliage at Bentendo and around the pond. Spring weekends are extremely crowded; arrive at the 9 AM opening. The temple grounds are large, so allow at least 2 hours for Lower Daigo, and a full day if you also climb to Upper Daigo.

### Is the Upper Daigo hike worth it?

Yes, if you have time and reasonable fitness. The 1-hour uphill hike (about 2.5 km, 350 m elevation) takes you through forested paths to the original 9th-century mountain temple area. Highlights include the Kaisando Hall, sacred Reigen Spring, and panoramic views over Kyoto. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and a closing time check (Upper Daigo's last entry is around 3 PM, earlier in winter). The trail can be slippery after rain. Skip it if pressed for time; the Lower Daigo and Sanboin are the highlights.

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Source: Daigo-ji — Japan Voyage