Kyoto Sights

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Higashi-Hongan-ji

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Higashi-Hongan-ji Review

Very close to Kyoto Station, this temple is the first of the city's ancient sights to confront visitors arriving by bus. Its strong walls, mighty gates, and high-roofed main hall are impressive enough to make some newcomers believe they are looking at the Imperial Palace. In the current complex, largely a reconstruction in 1895, everything is dwarfed by the cavernous main hall, the second-largest wooden structure in Japan. During construction of the temple, female devotees had their hair cut and woven into the strong, thick rope needed to drag the heavy timber. A ragged section of one of these kezuna is on display inside the Daishi-do, a double-roofed structure that is admirable for its gracefully curving lines. From Kyoto Station walk 500 yards northwest.

    Contact Information

  • Address: Karasuma Shichijo-agaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, 600-8505 | Map It
  • Cost: Free
  • Hours: Daily 9 - 4.
  • Location: Central Kyoto
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