Higashi Hongan-ji Temple

東本願寺

Headquarters of Otani-ha branch of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. Features Goei-do Hall - one of world's largest wooden structures with massive interior space. Impressive temple gate. Free admission. Very close to Kyoto Station, perfect for arrival/departure day visits.

Visit: 30-45 minutes

Entrance: Free admission

Hours: 5:50 AM - 5:30 PM (Mar-Oct), 6:20 AM - 4:30 PM (Nov-Feb)

Highlights & Must-See Features

Goei-do Hall - one of world's largest wooden structures
Massive temple gates
Free admission
Closest major temple to Kyoto Station
Beautiful autumn ginkgo trees
Impressive interior space

📍 How to Get There

Nearest Station

Kyoto Station - 10 minutes walk north

Step-by-Step Directions

1 From Kyoto Station: Walk 10 minutes north on Karasuma-dori
2 From Kyoto Station: Bus 5, 26, 101 to Karasuma Shomen (3 min)
3 Closest major temple to Kyoto Station
4 Easy combination with Nishi Hongan-ji (10 min walk west)

Location & Maps

🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Latitude: 34.991493

Longitude: 135.758662

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Best Time to Visit

Morning or late afternoon. Perfect for arrival/departure day when staying near Kyoto Station. Less touristy, more local atmosphere. Autumn ginkgo trees beautiful.