To-ji Temple Kyoto
Kyoto's UNESCO-listed To-ji Temple, famed for Japan's tallest wooden pagoda and ancient sculptures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
To-ji Temple Kyoto
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Kyoto's UNESCO-listed To-ji Temple, famed for Japan's tallest wooden pagoda and ancient sculptures.
"Underrated gem with a peaceful vibe and stunning pagoda, a must-visit in Kyoto."
🎯 Go for the Night Viewings
Experience the temple's magic after dark; it's less crowded and incredibly atmospheric.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The temple gardens are a peaceful oasis, perfect for a relaxing stroll and great photos of the pagoda.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic 5-Story Pagoda
Central grounds
Japan's tallest wooden pagoda, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site offering stunning views and architectural marvel.

Kondo Hall Statues
Kondo Hall
Marvel at the impressive 8th-century sculptures of deities, a powerful display of ancient Buddhist art.

Tranquil Temple Gardens
Various locations within the temple grounds
Wander through peaceful gardens, especially beautiful by the pond, offering a serene escape and picturesque pagoda views.

Antique Market (First Sunday)
Temple grounds
Experience a vibrant antique market on the first Sunday of each month, a unique cultural immersion.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Pagoda Access & Special Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go for the Night Viewings
Experience the temple's magic after dark; it's less crowded and incredibly atmospheric.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The temple gardens are a peaceful oasis, perfect for a relaxing stroll and great photos of the pagoda.
📅 Check for Special Events
Pagoda access is rare; look for special viewings or events for unique opportunities.
🚌 Easy Bus Access
A bus stop right in front makes getting here simple. Use Google Maps for transit options.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go for the Night Viewings
Experience the temple's magic after dark; it's less crowded and incredibly atmospheric.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
The temple gardens are a peaceful oasis, perfect for a relaxing stroll and great photos of the pagoda.
📅 Check for Special Events
Pagoda access is rare; look for special viewings or events for unique opportunities.
🚌 Easy Bus Access
A bus stop right in front makes getting here simple. Use Google Maps for transit options.
📸 No Photos Inside
Respect the rules; photography is prohibited inside the main halls, but the sights are unforgettable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise To-ji Temple for its serene atmosphere and the impressive, albeit often inaccessible, 5-story pagoda. Many highlight it as an underrated gem, offering a peaceful experience with fewer crowds than other major Kyoto attractions. The historical significance and beautiful gardens are also frequently mentioned as highlights.
"Echoing others, this temple was so lovely. We couldn't tour in the pagoda, but you could go in the nearby buildings which were full of beautiful statues. It wasn't busy when we visited in late-May (a big highlight) and had nice bathrooms. Just a really relaxing space with beautiful gardens.
We easily reached by bus and was a highlight in Kyoto. Easy cab ride to other areas in Kyoto."
Ashlee H
"Probably the most underrated temple in Kyoto by far! I mean there’s a reason it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is not as popular as most other temples in the area which is great! No queues or crowds. You will get your money’s worth.
Be sure to go inside all the temples if you can. Photography is prohibited inside the temples but it is definitely something to behold!
We were lucky enough to be able to visit the temple during one of their special night viewings. There’s something special about seeing the statues inside the temples light up while still being surrounded by the darkness of night.
The temple garden was also quite beautiful to walk around, especially at night."
Ruth Bunena
"To-ji Temple surprised us with how tranquil and serene this place was. It was also neat to visit this temple’s pagoda, the tallest wooden structure in all of Japan. We lucked out because the pagoda happened to be open, a rare occurrence usually only reserved for special occasions. The temple gardens were lush and calming, especially by the pond. Inside the temple itself stood massive sculptures that make us feel so small, though no pictures were allowed inside. Time wise we spent about an hour and a half to two hours here comfortably. We’d love to come back here someday. Make sure not to miss this wonderful place!"
Cody P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To-ji Temple is conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from Kyoto Station. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Kyoto Station to the Toji Temple bus stop, which is right in front of the temple. The Kintetsu Toji Station is also very close by, offering direct trains to Nara.
Yes, there is a bus stop directly in front of To-ji Temple, making it easily accessible by public transport. Google Maps can help you navigate bus routes and schedules.
If your accommodation is near To-ji Temple, you're in luck! The temple is well-connected. You can walk to Kyoto Station (about 15 minutes), use the numerous bus lines around the temple, or utilize the nearby Kintetsu station for trains to Nara. Consider a 24-hour bus and subway pass if you plan on extensive travel.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Kyoto and can take you directly to To-ji Temple. It's also a convenient option for getting to other areas in Kyoto from the temple.
While not directly on a subway line, the Kintetsu Toji Station is very close and offers connections, particularly for travel to Nara. The main Kyoto subway lines are accessible via a short walk or bus ride to Kyoto Station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the temple grounds is generally free, but there may be separate admission fees for specific buildings like the Kondo Hall and the Treasure Hall, especially during special exhibitions. Access to the 5-story pagoda is often limited to special occasions.
The temple grounds are typically open from morning until late afternoon. However, specific building hours can vary, and special night viewings have their own distinct hours. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
To avoid crowds, aim for weekdays during the early morning or late afternoon. Special night viewings are also often less crowded than daytime visits and offer a unique atmosphere.
Access to the interior of the 5-story pagoda is usually restricted and only available during special events or viewings, which may have a separate admission fee.
While there isn't a specific pass for To-ji Temple itself, a Kyoto City Bus & Subway Pass might be cost-effective if you plan to use public transport extensively to reach the temple and other attractions.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally prohibited inside the main temple buildings, including the Kondo Hall, where the precious sculptures are housed. However, you are free to take photos of the pagoda, gardens, and the temple grounds.
The 5-story pagoda is a prime subject, especially when framed by the temple gardens or during the autumn foliage season. The pond area also offers beautiful reflections. Night viewings provide unique photographic opportunities with the illuminated structures.
Yes, special night viewings often allow for photography of the illuminated pagoda and temple buildings, creating a magical and atmospheric scene.
As with most historical and religious sites in Japan, drone usage is typically prohibited within the temple grounds to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and the preservation of the site. Always check local regulations.
For the pagoda, sunrise or sunset can offer beautiful lighting. However, many visitors find the illuminated pagoda during night viewings to be particularly stunning and photogenic.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly inside the main temple complex. However, you can find various dining options in the vicinity of To-ji Temple and near Kyoto Station.
The area around To-ji Temple and Kyoto Station offers a wide range of Japanese cuisine, from casual ramen shops and udon restaurants to more formal dining experiences. You can also find convenience stores for quick snacks.
While traditional Japanese cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants in Kyoto are becoming more accommodating to dietary needs. Look for restaurants offering vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, or soba noodles. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff.
Generally, it's polite to consume food and drinks outside of the main temple buildings and sacred areas. You can enjoy picnics in designated areas or outside the temple grounds.
While not directly at To-ji, Kyoto is famous for its matcha. You can find excellent matcha lattes and other tea experiences in cafes around the city, including some near Kyoto Station.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit