To-ji

Temple

Prefecture

Kyoto

Type

Temple

N/A

1 review

¥500

Entry Fee

Train Access

About This Destination

A World Heritage Site founded in 796, home to Japan's tallest wooden pagoda at 55 meters and a beloved monthly flea market on the 21st.

Founded 796, two years after Kyoto became the capital. Later entrusted to Kukai (Kobo Daishi), founder of Shingon Buddhism. The 55-meter five-story pagoda is Japan's tallest wooden tower. The Kondo has a Yakushi Nyorai trinity; the Kodo has a three-dimensional mandala of 21 Buddhist statues, many National Treasures. On the 21st of every month, the Kobo-ichi flea market draws hundreds of vendors (antiques, crafts, food). UNESCO World Heritage since 1994.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: Toji Station (Kintetsu Kyoto Line)

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: No dining inside the temple, but the monthly Kobo-ichi flea market on the 21st features dozens of food stalls. Kyoto Station is a 15-minute walk away with extensive dining options.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to To-ji?

To-ji is a 15-minute walk southwest of Kyoto Station via the Hachijo-dori exit, or a single stop on the Kintetsu Kyoto Line to Toji Station (3 minutes, 160 yen) followed by a 5-minute walk. By city bus, several routes (#42, #71, #207) stop at 'Toji-Higashimon-mae' near the east gate.

What's the entry fee structure?

The temple grounds are free to walk through. The Kondo and Kodo halls (with the iconic 21-statue 3D mandala including National Treasures) cost 500 yen for adults. Entering the five-story pagoda's first floor is offered only during seasonal special openings (around 800 yen extra). The Kanchi-in sub-temple's garden and treasure house cost 500 yen. Cash and cards accepted. Open daily 5:00 AM (gardens) / 8:00 AM (paid halls) to 5:00 PM.

What is the Kobo-ichi flea market like?

Held on the 21st of every month from around dawn (5–6 AM) to 4 PM, Kobo-ichi is one of Kyoto's largest open-air markets, with 1,000+ vendors filling the temple's vast precincts. You'll find Japanese antiques, second-hand kimonos, ceramics, pickles, mochi, soba, vintage tools, plants, and street food. December's 'Shimai-Kobo' (the year's last) and January's 'Hatsu-Kobo' (first of the year) are especially festive. Walk-only — no parking. Cash strongly preferred.

When is the best time to visit To-ji?

Late March to early April for the famous weeping cherry tree (Fuji-zakura) in front of the pagoda — illuminated at night during cherry season. Mid-November for autumn foliage when the maples around Hyotan Pond reflect the pagoda. The 21st of any month for the Kobo-ichi market. Mornings before 10 are quietest. Avoid the 21st if you only want to see the temple itself — the market makes it crowded.