Kodai-ji Temple
Build a trip to Kyoto
About
Established in 1606 by Nene, the widow of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, Kodai-ji is a lavish tribute to one of Japan's greatest unifiers. The temple is famous for its 'Kodai-ji Makie' (lacquerware with gold powder), visible in the Otama-ya sanctuary. The gardens, designed by Kobori Enshu, feature a beautiful pond and a unique 'Dragon's Back' corridor. One of the most enchanting features is the small bamboo grove and the two teahouses designed by tea master Sen no Rikyu. At night during special seasons, the temple hosts innovative 3D projection mapping shows on its sand garden, blending ancient tradition with modern technology. It’s located just a short walk from Yasaka Shrine. The quiet, elevated position provides a peaceful respite from the bustle of the Higashiyama streets below and offers a lovely view of the Yasaka Pagoda from the hillside.
Highlights
- Illuminated night gardens
- Bamboo grove walk
- Makie lacquer art
- 丰臣秀吉 commemoration
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Kikunoi Honten
One of Kyoto's most celebrated kaiseki restaurants, Kikunoi has been serving refined multi-course Japanese haute cuisine in a traditional machiya townhouse in the Higashiyama geisha district since 1912, earning three Michelin stars for its exquisite seasonal menus that change with each of Japan's 24 micro-seasons. Chef Murata Yoshihiro's philosophy of capturing the essence of each ingredient at its peak ripeness results in dishes of extraordinary delicacy, from the paper-thin sashimi arranged like flower petals to the rich miso soup with hand-made tofu. Private dining rooms overlooking a moss garden provide the quintessential Kyoto fine dining setting.
Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka
These two stone-paved pedestrian streets are among the most beautiful and preserved historic areas in Japan. Sloping down from Kiyomizu-dera, they are lined with traditional wooden buildings, ochaya (tea houses), and shops selling Kyoto specialties like 'Yatsuhashi' sweets and Kiyomizu-yaki pottery. The name Sannenzaka means 'Slope of Three Years,' and legend says if you fall here, you will have three years of bad luck—a story likely told to keep people careful on the steep steps. The sensory experience is like stepping back into the Edo period, especially when visitors in rented kimonos pass by. Expert recommendation: Look for the Starbucks housed in a 100-year-old traditional townhouse on Ninenzaka—it’s the first in the world with tatami seating. Pro tip: To photograph the streets without the crowds, arrive before 8:00 AM or after 8:00 PM when the shops close and the lanterns are lit.
Hokan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda)
This 46-meter five-story pagoda is the last remaining structure of a 6th-century temple complex and the most recognizable landmark of the Higashiyama district. Historically, it has been rebuilt several times, with the current tower dating to 1440. The sight of the pagoda looming over the narrow wooden shops of Sannenzaka is the quintessential Kyoto sensory experience. Expert recommendation: For the 'perfect' photograph, stand at the top of Yasaka-dori street during the 'blue hour' just after sunset. Practical Pro Tip: While usually viewed from the outside, the interior occasionally opens to the public, allowing you to see the central pillar and ancient paintings. It is a steep walk, so take your time exploring the surrounding artisan craft shops.
Maruyama Park
Opened in 1886, Maruyama Park is the oldest public park in Kyoto and its most popular spot for cherry blossom viewing (hanami). The park is famous for its 'Gion Shidarezakura' (weeping cherry tree), which is illuminated at night and serves as the park's centerpiece. Historically, this area was part of the Yasaka Shrine grounds. The sensory experience changes with the seasons, but spring is a festive riot of food stalls selling 'yakisoba' and 'takoyaki,' and the joyful chatter of locals. It also features a traditional Japanese strolling garden with a pond and several teahouses. Expert recommendation: Visit at night during the cherry blossom season to see the weeping tree glowing against the dark sky—it is one of Kyoto's most iconic images. Pro tip: It is a great place to rest between exploring the Gion district and the temples of Higashiyama. Entrance is free.
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