［One of the highlights of Toji Temple is the five-story pagoda, a national treasure. The five-story pagoda, which looks as if it is welcoming people from the south window of the Shinkansen bullet train, is truly a landmark tower of Kyoto. At 55 meters tall, it is the tallest wooden structure in Japan.
The five-story pagoda has been destroyed by fire several times due to lightning and other causes, but has been rebuilt repeatedly. The current structure was rebuilt and dedicated by Tokugawa Iemitsu in 1644, making it the fifth generation.

Inside the first floor of the five-story pagoda, there is a space that expresses esoteric Buddhist teachings through Buddhist statues and murals. Normally closed to the public, the pagoda is open to visitors every New Year and during special openings in spring and fall. Please visit the museum according to the opening schedule.

One of the highlights of Toji Temple, the head temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, is the three-dimensional mandala in the auditorium.
First, let's take a look at the auditorium, an Important Cultural Property. The lecture hall, located in the center of the large temple complex, was completed in 839, and although it was destroyed by fire along with Kondo and Nandaimon in 1486, it was quickly rebuilt five years later in 1491, and continues to this day. The rebuilding may have been hastened because the lecture hall was central to the spread of esoteric Buddhist teachings.

In the auditorium, a magnificent mandala is embodied by 21 Buddhist statues. A mandala is an easy-to-understand expression of the teachings of esoteric Buddhism. In order to convey the mandala more realistically to people, Kukai conceived the idea of a three-dimensional mandala.
The three-dimensional mandala, also called the Kakuma Mandala, compares [Toji Temple] to a giant mandala. Just as Dainichi Nyorai is depicted at the center of the mandala, a statue of Dainichi Nyorai is enshrined at the center of the three-dimensional mandala. Of the 21 statues placed on the platform and in the four directions of the hall, 15 statues, which have existed since the early Heian period, are designated as National Treasures. One of the statues was recently designated as a National Treasure, making a total of 16 statues a must-see sight.

Arranged in a circle in the center of the three-dimensional mandala are the Five Wisdom Nyorai, including Dainichi Nyorai, all five of which are Important Cultural Properties. On the right side facing Dainichi Nyorai are the Five Great Bodhisattvas, led by Kongo-Haramitta Bosatsu (Vajrayana Bodhisattva). The Five Great Myoo (Godai Myoo), centering on Fudo Myoo, is on the left. On the four sides are the Four Heavenly Kings, Brahma, and Taisakuten, who protect the Nyorai, Bodhisattvas, and Myoo.
One glance at the three-dimensional mandala will draw you into the world of esoteric Buddhism.

The three statues of Yakushi Sanzon in Kondo are another highlight of the temple.

Kondo, the first building begun after the construction of To-ji Temple in 796 (Enryaku 15), is the main hall of the temple, and was rebuilt by Toyotomi Hideyori in 1603 (Keicho 8) after being destroyed by fire in 1486. It is now designated as a National Treasure as it is a Momoyama period building that blends the Tenjiki-style with the Japanese style, incorporating the Song Dynasty style.

The main deity of Kondo is the Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha), who is said to protect people from all kinds of illnesses. Surrounding the pedestal are powerful statues of the Twelve Divine Generals. Nikko Bosatsu (Sunlight Bodhisattva) and Gakko Bosatsu (Moonlight Bodhisattva) are enshrined on the right and left sides, respectively.
The statue of Yakushi Sanzon was destroyed by fire along with Kondo, but was restored by Kosho, a leading Buddhist priest of the Momoyama period (1573-1600), and is designated as an important cultural property. The Yakushi Sanzon statues have been praying for the peace of the world since ancient times, and you can quietly place your hands on them.

［The attractions of Toji Temple are not limited to its historic buildings and Buddhist statues. The Kobo Market, held on the 21st of every month, is a lively and attractive event.

It is said that the festival originally began when more and more people came to worship at the Mikagekū (memorial service) held at Miedō on the 21st of each month, and teahouses began to open their stalls. Today, nearly 1,000 stalls line the grounds of the temple, which are crowded with people of all ages and genders.

At the Koboichi stalls, antiques and miscellaneous goods are sold. The difference from flea markets is that specialty stores, not ordinary people, set up their stalls.
If you would like to take a peek at the Kobo Market as well, visit Toji Temple on "Kobo-san's Day" on the 21st. If you come across unexpected bargains or favorite items, Kobo-san may have brought you together.

Cherry blossoms and autumn leaves illuminated
During the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, the temple grounds are lit up for special nighttime viewing. The illuminated nighttime cherry blossoms and autumn leaves are a fantastic and beautiful sight to behold. Of course, the contrast of the majestic five-story pagoda towering in the background of the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves is not to be missed.

In addition to the illumination, special nighttime viewing of the Kondo and Kodo halls will also be held. This is a great opportunity to experience the atmosphere of Toji Temple, which is different from that of daytime, so be sure to include this event in your Kyoto sightseeing plans for the evening.
Hours of visitation are from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and the reception desk closes at 9:00 p.m. Admission is 1000 yen for adults.
Note that the parking fee for regular cars will be 1,000 yen during the nighttime lighting.

Special Viewing
Every New Year's, a special New Year's viewing is held. In addition, a special spring viewing is held from March 20 to May 25 in the spring, and a special fall viewing from September 20 to November 25 in the fall.
During this period only, the Treasure House will be open to the public, displaying a variety of cultural assets such as Buddhist statues, paintings, and calligraphy from Toji's collection. This is a unique opportunity to come into contact with treasures that have been handed down over the years.
At the same time, the interior of the first floor of the five-story pagoda, which is normally closed to the public, is also open to the public. However, the interior of the first floor of the five-story pagoda is open to the public several times a year, so please visit regularly.Toji Temple WebsiteIt is recommended to check the

●Koho Market
Koboichi is a fair held on the 21st of every month and is basically held rain or shine. If you go to the trouble, visit the shrine on "Kobo-san Day" and enjoy both sightseeing and shopping.
Preparations for the Kobo Market start at 5:00 a.m. when the gates open, and almost all stores are open by around 8:00 p.m.. The market closes at sunset around 4:00 p.m., which is the approximate time of the day. Opening and closing times vary depending on the season, weather, and vendors, so it is a good idea to check in advance.
Toji Koboichi Web site:http://www.touji-ennichi.com/
Official Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/toji_koboichi__official/

In 794 (Enryaku 13), Emperor Kanmu moved the capital to Heian-kyo. In 796, To-ji Temple was built as an official temple to serve as a national shrine. ［Located on the east side of the Rajomon Gate, the entrance to Heian-kyo, To-ji Temple was originally a counterpart to Sai-ji Temple.
Emperor Saga, who ascended to the throne after Emperor Kanmu, bestowed Toji Temple to Kobo Daishi Kukai, who had studied esoteric Buddhism in Tang China. Kukai proceeded with the construction of a lecture hall and a five-story pagoda, and the temple complex that remains to this day was built. Thus, To-ji Temple became the head temple of Shingon esoteric Buddhism.
Eventually, at the end of the Heian period, Toji Temple declined along with the devastated capital.

In 1233, a seated statue of Kobo Daishi Kukai was completed by Unkei's son, Buddhist priest Kosho, and in 1240, a memorial service was held in the Mikageido, which became the origin of Kobo Market.
However, during the Muromachi period (1336-1573), the temple was spared from damage during the Onin War, but in 1486, the Kondo, lecture hall, corridor, and Nandaimon gate were destroyed by fire in the Yamashiro Provincial Revolt.
Five years later, the auditorium was rebuilt. During the Momoyama period (1568-1600), the Kondo hall, the statue of Yakushi Sanzon, and the Nandaimon gate were also rebuilt, finally restoring the temple to its original appearance. The five-story pagoda, which was destroyed by lightning, was rebuilt in the Edo period (1603-1867).
To-ji Temple, which has been repeatedly rebuilt by the people, was registered as a World Heritage Site in December 1994 as a "Cultural Property of Ancient Kyoto.

Miedo
Mikado, located in the northwest of the temple grounds, is said to be the former residence of Kukai. Also called "Daishi-do," it consists of a rear hall, a front hall, and a central gate. The building, which dates back to the Nanbokucho Period, is designated as a National Treasure and has an impressive, serene atmosphere.
In the front hall, a statue of Kobo Daishi, a national treasure, is enshrined as the principal image. In the back hall, a seated statue of Fudo Myoo, a statue of Daishi Nenmochi, is enshrined, but it is not open to the public because it is a secret statue of Buddha.

At the Mikageido, a Mieku (memorial service) is held at 10:00 a.m. on the 21st day of every month. Mieiku is a memorial service to express gratitude to Kobo-Daishi Kukai. In particular, the memorial service on April 21 (March 21 in the lunar calendar), the day Kukai entered the Buddhist monastery, is called Sho Mieiku. On this day, the main image is open all day long.

Shojinku, which begins at 6:00 a.m. each morning, is also the time when the principal image is opened to the public.
In the Ikushimi Kuyo, one meal, two meals, and tea will be offered, just as Kukai did when he lived in the Mikageido. Everyone is welcome to participate, and no fee is required. 5:50 p.m., gather at either the Karamon or Seimon of the Mikageido, and after the 6:00 bell rings, enter the Mikageido to pay your respects.

Kanchiin
The pagoda of Toji Temple was founded by Gobo around 1359 during the Nanbokucho period (1359-1368). Here, Gobo and his disciple, Gempo, compiled documents and collected many esoteric Buddhist scriptures. It can be said to be a kind of "Kangakuin" in the Shingon sect, a kind of laboratory in a university.
The Kyakuden of Kanchiin, which retains elements of the shoin-style architecture, is designated as a national treasure. In addition, "Eagle" and "Bamboo Forest" by Musashi Miyamoto are painted in the upper room.
The main hall is located on the east side of the guest house, and its principal deity is the Godai Kokuuzo Bosatsu, an Important Cultural Property.
Currently, Kanchiin is open to the public year-round. Admission is 500 yen for adults. They also accept sutra copying from the general public, and writing pens are available for loan. Hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. A sutra fee of 1,000 yen is required. Reservations are not required, so feel free to try sutra copying.

Namdaemun
Nandaimon is the front gate in the layout of To-ji Temple. In 1895, to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the relocation of the capital to Heian-kyo, the gate was rebuilt by relocating the West Gate of Sanjusangendo (Sanjusangen-do). As an architectural structure built in the Momoyama Period, it is designated as an Important Cultural Property.

Garden
On the north side of the five-story pagoda is Hyotaike Pond. When the pond is lit up at night, the reflections of the cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and the five-story pagoda are reflected in the pond, making it a popular photo spot. In early summer, lotus flowers are in full bloom, creating the illusion of the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

dining room
A place where monks are supposed to find practice in their lives based on Buddhist teachings.
The dining hall, built in the Heian period, was destroyed by fire in 1930. The present building was rebuilt over a period of three years. The main image of Senju Kannon was also severely damaged in the fire, and after restoration, it is housed in the Treasure House. Today, the eleven-faced Kannon is enshrined as the principal image in the dining room.
In the hall, there is also a sutra office for the 88 Shikoku pilgrimage and the Rakuyo Sanjusangjo Kannon Sacred Temple. Red seals are also accepted here.
Since 2012, visitors can experience sutra copying in the cafeteria. Applications can be made directly at the cafeteria from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. The fee for sutra chanting is 1,000 yen. However, please note that the time and place may be changed if there is an event or memorial service at the dining hall.

Treasure House
This facility stores, researches, and organizes many valuable historical materials, including national treasures and important cultural properties. The first and second floors of the museum are used as exhibition rooms. The museum is open to the public twice a year, in spring and fall, during special openings, so be sure to check it out.
The museum is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and closes at 4:30 p.m.

Small Child Cell
Koshibo, which used to welcome the emperor, was rebuilt in 1934 on the occasion of the 1,000th anniversary of the death of Kobo-Daishi Kukai.
On its west side is the Lotus Gate, a national treasure. When Kukai left Toji Temple for Koyasan in his later years, Fudo Myoo appeared to see him off. The gate is said to have come to be called Lotus Gate because lotus flowers bloomed at the feet of Fudo Myoo and on the path he walked. It is currently closed to the public.

Kanjoin
Built around 843 by Jitsue as an important center for esoteric Buddhism, it was damaged by an earthquake in 1585 and rebuilt in 1634 during the Edo period (1603-1868).
［The Mikagei-no-musubi (memorial service) held in the Mikageido was originally held in 910 (Engi 10) at the Kantei-in Temple. It is designated as an important cultural property and is usually closed to the public.

Access from Kyoto Station
Approx. 15 min. walk from JR "Kyoto Station" Hachijo Exit

Access by train
Approximately 17 minutes on foot from Kujo Subway Station
10 minutes walk from Toji Station on the Kintetsu Line.

Access by bus
Short walk from Toji Minamimon-mae bus stop on city bus lines 19 and 78, Toji Higashimon-mae bus stop on city bus line 42, and Toji Nishimon-mae bus stop on city bus line 16.

Basic Information
Address: 1 Kujo-cho, Minami-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Phone number: 075-691-3325
Official Website:https://toji.or.jp/

Parking lot available. Regular cars: 600 yen for 2 hours, 300 yen per hour after 2 hours.
*Special rates apply during the New Year's Special Viewing. Also, not available on Kobo Market Day, the 21st of each month.

Entrance Fee
The precincts are basically free of charge

Normal release
Kondo and Auditorium] Adults ¥500
Kanchiin] Adults 500 yen

Special publicity.
Inside the first floor of the five-story pagoda, Kondo hall and lecture hall] 800 yen for adults
Treasure House] Adults 500 yen

Opening time
5:00-17:00 (closing gate)

Hours of operation
Kondo, Auditorium
8:00-17:00 (Registration closes at 16:30)

Kanchiin
9:00-17:00 (Registration closes at 16:30)

Treasure House] *Open only in spring and fall
9:00-17:00 (Registration closes at 16:30)