📕 Goshuin from visitors
Higashi Hongan-ji (East Hongan-ji Temple)
京都市下京区烏丸通七条
Located in Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto City, this is the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu Otani-ha (True School of Pure Land Buddhism, Otani Branch), officially named Shinshu Honmiao (Temple of the True School). The principal image is Amida Nyorai (Amitabha Buddha), and the founder is Shinran Shonin (Saint Shinran). The temple was established in 1602 CE (Keicho 7) when Tokugawa Ieyasu donated temple lands in the Karasuma Shichijo area, prompting the division of Hongan-ji into the Western branch (under Junyo) and the Eastern branch (under Kyoyo). The Oedo Hall (Main Hall) measures 76 meters in width, 58 meters in depth, and 38 meters in height. Its architectural area exceeds that of the Daibutsuden (Great Buddha Hall) at Todai-ji, making it one of the largest wooden structures in the world. Together with the adjacent Amida-do (Amida Hall), it forms a major urban temple complex within walking distance of Kyoto Station. Locals affectionately refer to it as 'O-Higashi-san' (The East One), and it is a defining part of Kyoto's cityscape. As the head temple for approximately 8,000 Jodo Shinshu Otani-ha temples nationwide, it serves as the center of the sect.
History
This is the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu Otani-ha (True School of Pure Land Buddhism, Otani Branch), founded by Shinran Shonin (Saint Shinran), and is affectionately known as 'O-Higashi-san' (The East One). The Oedo Hall (Main Hall) is one of the largest wooden structures in the world.
Blessings
As a representative temple of Kyoto Prefecture, it attracts many worshippers and tourists.
What visitors say
A grand temple with a vast grounds featuring the solemn Oedo Hall (Main Hall) and Amida-do (Amida Hall). It is within walking distance of Kyoto Station, and entering the precincts envelops visitors in a serene atmosphere. There are souvenir shops near the Oedo Hall gate, and electronic money and PayPay are accepted. Please note that there is a steep staircase leading to the Oedo Hall, so those with weak legs or knees should exercise caution.
Opening hours
- Monday: 5:50 – 17:30
- Tuesday: 5:50 – 17:30
- Wednesday: 5:50 – 17:30
- Thursday: 5:50 – 17:30
- Friday: 5:50 – 17:30
- Saturday: 5:50 – 17:30
- Sunday: 5:50 – 17:30
Annual events & festivals
- January 1-7Shuse-e (New Year's Service)
New Year's Buddhist service held at the beginning of the year.
January 1-7. The first Buddhist service of the new year, held in the Goeido (Hall of the Portrait). Devotees offer New Year's nembutsu (recitation of the Buddha's name) before the portrait of Shinran Shonin.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・New Year's Buddhist service
- ・Service in the Goeido
- ・New Year's visit
- August 14-16Tohoku Dantai-e (Festival of Ten Thousand Lanterns)
A quintessential summer scene in Kyoto where approximately 10,000 lanterns are lit during Obon.
From August 14 to 16, approximately 10,000 lanterns are lit at the Daikyo So-byo (Founder's Mausoleum) to honor ancestors during the Obon period, drawing many visitors.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Approximately 10,000 lanterns
- ・Obon ancestor worship
- ・Iconic Kyoto summer sight
- November 21-28Hobon-ko (Gratitude Lecture)
The most important annual Buddhist rite commemorating the founder, Saint Shonin.
Held from November 21 to 28 in conjunction with the death anniversary of the founder, Saint Shonin, this is the most significant rite of the year for Jodo Shinshu followers. Many devotees visit from all over Japan.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Commemorating the founder, Saint Shonin
- ・Most important annual rite
- ・Visitors from across Japan
Dates can shift from year to year. Please check the official information before you go.
口コミ (...件)
Looking up Higashi Hongan-ji (East Hongan-ji Temple)?
Kaminavi helps you find over 90,000 temples across Japan by map, blessing, and reviews. Its real-time lucky-direction search based on Nine Star Ki even tells you which direction is auspicious for you today. You can also keep your visit records, Goshuin collection, and pilgrimage plans in one place.
What you can do on Kaminavi
Today's Lucky Direction
From where you are now, via Nine Star Ki
Good Days to Visit
Rokuyo & auspicious-day calendar
Power Spots
Highlights in Kinki
Festival Calendar
Annual events in Kinki
Featured Articles
Guides by type of blessing
Worship Etiquette
How to pray at a temple
Visits & Goshuin
Keep a record of every visit