Temple
Higashi Hongan-ji
東本願寺
Head temple of the Otani branch of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, founded a few blocks east of Nishi Hongan-ji in 1602. Its Goeido hall is described by Japan Guide as Kyoto's largest wooden structure.
Key facts
- Station
- Kyoto (JR lines, Karasuma Line, Kintetsu Kyoto Line)8 min walk
- Admission
- Free entry
- Typical visit
- 40 min
- Hours
- 5:50 to 17:30 (March to October); 6:20 to 16:30 (November to February)
- Website
- www.higashihonganji.or.jp
Tip
The halls open early, so it is an easy first stop before trains or buses from Kyoto Station.
01Where to stay
Stay nearby
This place is around Kyoto Station. Median hotel rate in the latest sample: US$293 per night. Where to stay around Kyoto Station
Prices and availability come from the booking sites and can change.
02Map
Nearby places
- Viewpoint Kyoto Tower 京都タワー A 131 m tower completed in 1964, standing across the road from the north (Karasuma) exit of Kyoto Station. Paid entry 45 min 2 min walk
- Garden Shosei-en Garden 渉成園 A detached garden of Higashi Hongan-ji, a few blocks east of the main temple, with a pond, bridges and teahouses laid out around a stroll path. Paid entry 40 min 10 min walk
- Landmark Kyoto Station Building 京都駅ビル The station building opened in 1997 for the 1200th anniversary of Kyoto's founding and was designed by architect Hara Hiroshi. Free entry 45 min 1 min walk
- Temple Nishi Hongan-ji 西本願寺 Head temple of the Honganji branch of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, built in 1591 under Toyotomi Hideyoshi and part of the UNESCO Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto. Free entry 45 min 15 min walk
Sources · Verified 24 September 2026