Kodai-ji Zen Temple

Temple

4.5

This temple in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City was founded in 1606 to pray for Toyotomi Hideyoshi's happiness in the next life by his wife, Nene. Along with a mausoleum for the both of them, you can also visit the front gate of former Fushimi castle, the Kasatei teahouse, the Shiguretei teahouse, the Kaisando hall which holds favorite mementos of the two, and the Mizukidai pavilion (all of which are Important Cultural Properties of Japan). The fine gold lacquer work on the Buddha dais and miniature shrine within the mausoleum are masterpieces of Momoyama-period artwork and known as Kodai-ji Temple Makie. The garden on site surrounding a small pond is not to be missed and has been nationally designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty as well as a Historic Site. It is lit up during the sakura cherry blossom season in spring, at night in summer, during the gorgeous foliage season in fall, and on New Year's Eve.

Spot details

Address: Kyoto Prefecture Kyoto-shi Higashiyama-ku Kodaiji Shimogawara-machi 526 Map
Area: Around Kiyomizu-Dera Temple Area
Phone: 0755619966
Hours: 9:00-17:30(17:00Information desk closed)
Closed: open everyday
Fees: [Admission fee] Adults 600yen, Junior high and high school students 250yen, Groups (30people and above) 500yen
Parking Lot: Available
Credit Card: Not available
Smoking: Available (Smoking area Available next to Riseido on the south side of Grounds)
Wi-Fi: Available

Information Sources: NAVITIME JAPAN

Articles about this spot

Itineraries about this spot

Kyoto walk—Climb “the hill” to Kiyomizu-dera Temple

1 day(s)

Review

Smaller but beautiful temple in the heart of Kyoto

Reviewed : 2023.05.09

This is a smaller but beautiful temple in the heart of Kyoto. There are nice walking trails through the complex.
Cherry blossom at night with magic spell at Kotai ji

Reviewed : 2023.03.24

Seeing Sakura at night with illuminations is just like magic spell bringing Alice into wonderland; marring the cultural heritage of Kyoto with modern lighting. It’s a big leap in history!
Night View

Reviewed : 2022.12.30

Twice visited during sun down. Entire place light up with different color of lights reflecting it’s night scene of the garden. This year it added spectacular light sculpture technology with music...