All Reviews of Toji Temple

The five-story pagoda, visible in the distance from the Tokaido Shinkansen, has always been one of the most iconic Kyoto sights to me. This time, I happened to visit when the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and Toji Temple looked even more historic and beautiful against the sea of pink flowers. I especially recommend visiting Toji at night. As you slowly approach the five-story pagoda from the outer grounds, the towering wooden structure becomes more and more impressive. The impact is truly difficult to capture fully in photos. Photography isn't allowed inside the Kondo and Kodo halls, but the solemn Buddhist statues and temple atmosphere are well worth experiencing in person.

What also left a deep impression on me was taking part in the 6:00 a.m. sutra chanting at Miedo Hall. Chanting with the monks and other visitors,

and experiencing the temple at its purest in the quiet morning, was a very special and unforgettable Kyoto experience. Seeing the cherry blossoms during the day, viewing the five-story pagoda at night, and then ending the trip with early-morning sutra chanting. Visiting Toji at different times of day lets you experience completely different kinds of beauty.

This time, I came to Toji Temple mainly for the Kobo Market held on the 21st of every month. The market was much bigger than I had imagined, stretching from the temple grounds into the surrounding area. There were antiques, vintage items, secondhand kimono, household goods, handmade products, and food stalls. Even casually browsing takes at least two to three hours.

I’ve been twice. The first time, I arrived close to 2 p.m., and many antique vendors were already getting ready to pack up. The next time, I arrived a little after 6 a.m., which was too early. Many vendors were still unloading, and the food stalls didn’t open until after 7, so I nearly starved. Based on my two visits, around 8 to 11 a.m. is the best time to browse. Most stalls are set up, the food stalls are starting to open, and the crowds haven’t completely filled the place yet.

What appeals to me most about the Kobo Market is the wide variety of goods and the feeling of treasure hunting. It isn’t focused on any one particular type of item. If you like antiques, kimono, or old objects, it’s easy to keep browsing until your legs ache and still not want to leave. If you happen to be in Kyoto on the 21st, I think Toji Temple is well worth adding to your itinerary specifically for this market.

Toji Temple is absolutely one of the most worthwhile temples to visit in Kyoto!

It may not be as famous as Kiyomizu-dera, and it may not have flashy flower water displays, but at Toji you can experience a 3D Buddhist world and see Japan’s tallest five-story pagoda!

Toji Temple is absolutely beautiful at night.

On the 21st of every month, there's a market during the temple's regular ceremony. You can find food, clothes, and all sorts of things—it's a lot of fun! Plus, it's just a little over a ten-minute walk from Kyoto Station.

Among all the temples in Kyoto, Toji has a ton of national treasures. They even have two exhibitions every year for visitors.