|
Toji, the ancient temple of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism was founded by imperial decree in 796 AD. The temple, which is as old as Kyoto, was built to guard the city when Kyoto became Japan’s capital. Though the actual name of the temple is Kyo-o-gokoku-ji, it is popularly known as Toji or Eastern Temple. The Eastern Temple along with its partner, Saiji, the Western Temple, used to stand by the side of the Rashomon, the main gate of the Heian Capital. These were the only two great temples permitted in Kyoto city following the shift of the capital from Nara to get out of the meddling Buddhist priesthood. In 823 AD the temple was handed over to the priest Kukai (Kobo Daishi), the founder of Shingon sect of Buddhism. The temple’s association with this famous priest enhances its religious significance. It is situated near the crossing of Omiya Street and Kujo Street in the southeastern part of the Kyoto Station. Features - The 57-meter tall, five-story pagoda is the most prominent feature of the Toji temple. Rebuilt in 1643, this pagoda is also the tallest of all wooden towers in Japan. - The Lecture Hall of the temple dates back to 1491. It is adorned with spectacular carvings of 21 Buddhist deities created long back in the 8th and 9th centuries. The images of the Lecture Hall correspond to Esoteric Buddhism. - The statues of Healing Buddha, commonly known as Yakushi Nyorai, are placed in the Main Hall (Kondo) of the temple. - The huge Golden Hall of the temple has the biggest statue of Yakushi Nyorai. A common belief among the Japanese people is that this largest statue of Yakushi, keeps watch on this ancient city since its inception and protects it form evil eyes. - The temple is also famous for its colorful antiques market held on the 21st of each month. The market offers a wide variety of items including clothes, foods, plants, shoes, sculptures and many more. - Kitano Tenmangu, also known as Tenjin, hosts a similar type of market on the 25th of each month. A common Kyoto proverb states, "Fair weather at To-ji market means rainy weather at Tenjin market," giving an indication of Kyoto’s fickle weather. - Due to its immense historical and religious importance, Toji Temple has been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site. How to Reach The temple can be easily reached from the Kyoto Station. From the Station 10-15 minute walk towards South will take you to the temple complex.
Alternatively you can opt for Kintetsu Kyoto Line to reach the To-ji Station. The temple remains open from 9:00 to 16:30.
Admission charged for this temple is 500 Yen. Your trip to Kyoto cannot be complete if you miss the famous Toji temple in Kyoto.
|
