- Eastern Kyoto
- Sanjusangendo is a temple famous for the 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple was founded in 1164 and the current building was built in 1266. The main hall is Japan’s longest wooden structure. In the center of the main hall sits one large Kannon, flanked on each side by 500 smaller statues sitting in rows, each one as tall as an average person. Sanjusangendo is about a 20 minute walk from Kyoto Station or a short bus ride (take lines 100, 206 or 208).
- Kiyomizudera is one of Japan’s most celebrated temples. It was founded in 780 and stands in the wooded hills east of Kyoto. From the wooden terrace, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city, and below the terrace you can sample the spring water which is said to have healing power. Behind the main hall is Jishu Shrine, which is a shrine dedicated to the goddess of love. In front of the shrine are two rocks that are placed several meters apart – successfully walking from one to the other with your eyes closed is thought to bring you luck in love. You can get to Kiyomizudera from Kyoto Station in about 15 minutes by bus (take bus number 100 or 206 and get off at Kiyomizu-michi or Gojo-zaka) followed by a 10-15 minute walk uphill to the temple.
- Kodaiji is an outstanding temple in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. It was built in 1605 and features a traditional garden with teahouses and a temple hall. Kodaiji is located in Higashiyama district, near Kiyomizudera and Yasaka Shrine.
- Gion is Kyoto’s most famous geisha district. A stroll along Hanami-Koji offers traditional buildings, teahouses and restaurants. In the evenings, tourists may be able to spot a geisha apprentice in this area. Gion is about a 20 minute bus from Kyoto Station (take number 100 or 206 and get off at Gion bus stop). The closest train stations are Shijo Station on the Keihan Line and Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line.
- Yasaka Shrine (also known as Gion Shrine) is famous for the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s biggest festivals. Yasaka Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most popular shrines. Numerous lanterns decorate the shrine’s stage are illuminated at night, each one bearing the name of its sponsors – usually Kyoto businesses. The Shrine is located next to Maruyama Park, a popular cherry blossom location. Take the bus (number 100 or 206) from Kyoto Station for about 20 minutes. The closest train stations are Shijo Station on the Keihan Line and Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line.
- Chionin is the head temple of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism, which is one of the largest Buddhism sects to date. The current structure dates from the 17th century; however the original building was constructed in 1234. Chionin is home to Japan’s largest temple gate, Sanmon Gate, standing at 24 meters tall. It is also home to Japan’s largest temple bell. Chionin is located north of Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine. The nearest subway station is Higashiyama Station on the Tozai Line.
- Heian Shrine was built in 1895 and is dedicated to the first and last emperor that reigned from Kyoto – Emperor Kammu and Emperor Komei. The buildings of the shrine are partial replica’s of the old Imperial Palace and the grounds feature a garden that is a must see in Spring due to the spectacular weeping cherry trees that usually bloom around April. Heian Shrine can be reached by bus (number 5 or 100) from Kyoto Station. An alternative is to take the subway to Higashiyama Station on the Tozai Line (requires a transfer at Karasuma Oike Station from the Karasuma Line) followed by a 10 minute walk to the shrine.
- Nanzenji is a Zen temple at the base of Kyoto’s eastern hills. Nanzenji was first built in 1264 and the grounds feature a beautiful rock garden, a large entrance gate a water aqueduct and several sub-temples. Take a bus (number 5) from Kyoto Station or take the subway Tozai Line to Keage Station (transfer from Karasuma Line at Karasuma Oike Station) from where the temple can be reached in a 10 minute walk. Nanzenji is also a good starting or end point for a walk along the Path of Philosophy to or from Ginkakuji.
- Path of Philosophy (Tetsugaku no michi) is a one kilometer path next to a canal and features several Cherry Blossom trees, making it one of Japan’s most popular Cherry Blossom viewing places. Several small temples and restaurants can also be found in the vicinity. Start the walk at either Ginkakuji or Nanzenji.
- Ginkakuji (the Silver Pavillion) is a Zen temple at the foot of Kyoto’s eastern mountains. It was modeled after Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavillion) however plans to cover Ginkakuji in silver were never realized. Ginkakuji can be accessed by bus (number 5, 17 or 100) from Kyoto Station. Alternatively, you can reach Ginkakuji by foot along the Path of Philosophy from Nanzenji.
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