Kodaiji - Kyoto

Located at 526 Shimokawaracho, Higashiyama District, Kyoto City in Kyoto Prefecture, Kodaiji (高台寺) is the largest sub-temple of the Kennin-ji branch of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. 

Kodaiji (高台寺)

Kodaiji History

Formally called Jubuzan Kodaiji, the temple was established in 1606 by Nene (also called Kodai-in) in memory of her late husband Toyotomi Hideyoshi who was one of Japan's greatest historical figures. After Nene's death, she was also enshrined in the temple vicinity. 

Nene/ Kodai-in

Nene and Hideyoshi - one of the 9 Healing Buddha Statues of Higashiyama

Kodaiji's main hall was originally covered in lacquer and gold. It also features richly decorated interiors surrounded by picturesque Zen gardens. These gardens are presently designated as Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty. The temple also possesses several objects and structures designated as Important Cultural Assets like the portrait of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the Main Gate, and the Spirit Hall. 

Going up to Kodaiji via the Taisakasaka 

The Daimon (gate) to Kodaiji grounds as seen from the Taisakasaka

Kodaiji's Temmangu - One of the 9 Healing Buddhist Statues of Higashiyama

The Mani Wheels installed around the Temmangu - One of the 9 Healing Buddhist Statues of Higashiyama

The Temmangu Ox - one of the 9 Healing Buddha Statues of Higashiyama


I got to visit Kodaiji when I was hunting for the 9 Healing Buddha Statues of Higashiyama during the 4th day of our 2019 Japan trip. Since I was only after the 9 Healing Buddha Statues, I only explored the outer vicinity of the temple. I got to see the Kuri (warehouse hall) and the Temmangu Shrine which is part of the 9 Healing Buddha Statues. Aside from that, 3 other states are situated on the temple grounds. These are the statues of Nene and Hideyoshi, the Mani Wheels, and the Temmangu Ox. I also got the opportunity to get the goshuin of Kodaiji for my collection.

Kodaiji's Kuri

Kodaiji history board

The ema boards, Temmangu Ox, and the chozuya 

The Shoro of Kodaiji 

Sadly, since I didn't go inside the temple I failed to see with my own eyes the Main Hall and its impressive gardens. Well, that only means there is something to look forward to for my future visit to Kyoto City. 

Kodaiji Admission Fee:

For those planning to visit the Main Hall and gardens, keep in mind that you need to pay an admission fee of 600 yen per adult and 250 yen per kid. 

Kodaiji Opening Hours:

Kodaiji is open from 9AM to 5PM every day.

Why visit Kodaiji?

Overall, don't miss out on Kodaiji when you are in the Higashiyama District. Kodaiji's garden is a must-see. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the foliage in and around the vicinity is outstandingly picturesque. 

Getting to Kodaiji:


From Kyoto Station, ride bus number 100 / 202 / 206 / 207. Board down at Higashiyama Yasui bus stop. From there, the temple is a 5-10 minutes' walk away.
Travel Time: 26 - 29 minutes
Fare: 230 yen

Ratings:
Crowd

Cleanliness

Overall rating

Location: 526 Shimokawarachō, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, 605-0825, Japan

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