The Grand Scale: A Mountain Temple

#holidayitinerary

First, understand that Daigo-ji isn't just a single building; it's a vast temple complex spread across an entire mountainside (Mount Daigo). It's so important that it's designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famed as the place where retired Emperor Toyotomi Hideyoshi held his famous "Daigo no Hanami" (Cherry Blossom Viewing at Daigo) party in 1598.

The temple is divided into three main areas:

1. Sambo-in (三宝院) - The lavish sub-temple at the base of the mountain.
2. Kami Daigo (上醍醐) - The upper temple, requiring a hike up the mountain.
3. Shimo Daigo (下醍醐) - The lower temple, containing the main gate and several important halls.

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1. Sambo-in (三宝院) - The Opulent Heart

This is the absolute highlight for most visitors and a masterpiece of the Azuchi-Momoyama period.

· The Famous Garden: Sambo-in is renowned for its spectacular landscape garden, designed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi himself. It's a classic "stroll-style garden" meant to be enjoyed from different veranda viewpoints.
· What to See:
· The Pond: A large, curvaceous pond with islands and bridges.
· 800 Rocks: It's said the garden features over 800 meticulously placed stones, each chosen for its shape and meaning.
· Cherry and Maple Trees: The garden is designed for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in spring and momijigari (autumn leaf viewing) in fall. The views from the veranda are iconic.
· The Buildings: The residence itself is beautifully decorated with painted screens (fusuma-e) and intricate woodwork. You must remove your shoes to walk through the historic rooms.

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2. Shimo Daigo (下醍醐) - The Lower Precinct

This area contains the main entrance and several National Treasures.

· The Five-Story Pagoda (Goju-no-To): A designated National Treasure and the oldest surviving structure in Kyoto. Built in 951, it has stood for over a thousand years, surviving wars and fires. It's a powerful and serene sight.
· Kondo (Main Hall): Also a National Treasure, though the current building was moved from another location in the 16th century.
· Bentendo Hall: A beautiful hall dedicated to the goddess of music and arts, situated on a small island in a pond.

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3. Kami Daigo (上醍醐) - The Spiritual Hike

This is for the adventurous and spiritually inclined. The hike to the top takes about 60-90 minutes each way on a steep, rocky path.

· The Reward: You'll find ancient halls and temples nestled in the forest, including the Yakushi Hall, which houses a hidden statue of the healing Buddha. The atmosphere is mystical and quiet, far from the crowds.
· Important Note: The pagoda and halls in Kami Daigo are often closed to the public to preserve them.