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[2023] 24 Recommended Autumn Foliage Light-Ups in Kyoto
In 796 (Enryaku 15), two years after Emperor Kanmu moved the capital to Heian, it was built by the government as a temple to protect the nation. In 823 (Konin 14), Emperor Saga entrusted it to Kukai (Kobo Daishi), and it became the main training hall of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. In 1994, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On April 21st (March 21st of the lunar calendar), the anniversary of Kukai's death, Shomieiku is held, and on the 21st of every month, the anniversary of Kukai's death. On the same day, a fair called Kobo-ichi is held in the precincts, and especially the first Kobo in January is crowded with many people.
It is also known as a famous place for autumn leaves, and the contrast between the red and yellow trees and the five-storied pagoda is a must-see. During special visits at night, the precincts are lit up, and you can enjoy a fantastic scenery that is different from the daytime.
During the cherry blossom season, about 200 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino, are in full bloom. Among them, the 130-year-old red weeping Fujizakura tree from Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture.
After enjoying the cherry blossoms in the garden, you can appreciate the majestic Buddha statues in the main hall, lecture hall, and dining hall near the Hytan Pond.
[Cherry blossom viewing information]
Best time to visit / Usually3Late May4beginning of month
Year 2025The Treasure House, Spring Special Viewing "Toji Masterpieces: National Treasure Twelve Screens and Perfumes
Period of visitation / 20253month20Thursday, July 1 (holiday) - Thursday, July 2 (holiday)5month25Sun.
Visiting hours/9:00-17:00 (Last entry/16:30)
Admission: 600 yen for adults, 300 yen for junior high school students and younger
Toji Temple: Cherry blossoms illuminated at night "Kondo and Kodo Special Nighttime Viewing".
Period/.2025counter for years (following a number in the hito-futa-mi counting system)3month15day (of the month)(the earth (historically, esp. as opposed to the heavens))~ (after a number N)4month13day (of the month)(day (of the month))
time/18:00~ (after a number N)21:30(Last admission/)21:00)
Entrance Fee/General1000JPY1, Junior high school students and under500suffix for names of swords, armour, musical instruments, etc.
note (supplementary information) symbolNo group rates
[Autumn Foliage Season Information]
Best time to view autumn foliage: usually mid-November to early December
Special opening in fall 2025 (planned)
Lighting up the To-ji Temple precincts in 2025 "Kondo, Kodo, and 3D Mandala Special Night Viewing" (tentative)
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