All Reviews of Higashi Honganji Temple, Kyoto

In Kyoto, Higashi Honganji Temple draws travelers with its magnificent architecture and long history. Upon entering the temple, the enormous Goei-do Hall is imposing, and its wooden architecture displays the craftsmanship and distinctive features of traditional Japanese temples, giving the place a strong sense of history.

Walking through the spacious temple grounds, the surroundings feel quiet and solemn, in contrast to Kyoto's lively streets. Seeing the buildings that have endured the passage of time and multiple reconstructions gives you a sense of Higashi Honganji Temple's important place in Kyoto's history and culture, as well as a deeper appreciation for the architectural beauty of traditional Japanese temples.

When visiting Kyoto, besides Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha, there's also an incredibly impressive ancient temple hidden in the city center—Higashi Honganji Temple.

Located near Kyoto Station, it's within walking distance and very convenient to reach. When I first saw it, what struck me most was the enormous and solemn wooden building before me. Its magnificent roof, intricate layers of wooden framework, and delicate decorations really make you stop and look up for a long time.

Higashi Honganji is the head temple of the Shinshu Otani-ha school of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism and one of Kyoto's important Buddhist temples. The temple isn't only massive in scale. Once inside, you can also feel a quiet and composed atmosphere.

I especially like how it feels like a place that's worth stopping by even without making special plans.

Walking over from Kyoto Station, the bustle of the city is still behind you, but once you enter the temple grounds, the view suddenly becomes open and peaceful.

Magnificent wooden architecture × Kyoto's history × a peaceful temple atmosphere. If you happen to be near Kyoto Station, consider setting aside some time for Higashi Honganji Temple and experiencing another side of Kyoto's solemn and serene beauty.

Higashi Honganji Temple is near Kyoto Station, just a short walk away, making it a convenient stop along the way.

I thought a temple near the station would be crowded with tourists, but it was actually very peaceful on a weekday, without noisy crowds. I could take my time exploring and experience the temple's solemn atmosphere. The enormous wooden buildings are truly impressive up close, especially the vast space of the Founder's Hall, which makes you naturally slow down once you're inside.

After visiting the shopping centers near Kyoto Station or before catching a train, it's worth stopping by. It doesn't take much time, but you can experience the distinctive tranquility of an old Kyoto temple.

If you enjoy Kyoto’s slower pace, you’ll probably love this place. It’s a low-key temple, but it really leaves a lasting impression.

If you're visiting Kyoto, you have to check out Higashi Honganji! The ginkgo trees here are especially dense, and you can enjoy both the beautiful foliage and the historic temple itself. Highly recommended!