[Kyoto, Daigoji Temple🌸] The timeless world of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism told through its five-story pagoda and Buddhist statues

Daigoji Temple, a World Heritage Site, is the head temple of the Daigo school of Shingon Buddhism, nestled in the mountains of Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City. Founded in 874 by the monk Rigen Daishi Shobo, the temple has been a famous cherry blossom viewing spot since the Heian period, known for its "Daigo Hanami" (cherry blossom viewing).

The temple grounds are divided into Kami Daigo and Shimo Daigo, and offer many attractions. Begin by visiting the Kondo, the center of Shimo Daigo, and the National Treasure Five-Story Pagoda. Built in 951, the five-story pagoda commands an impressive presence as Kyoto's oldest wooden structure. The murals and Buddhist statues within the pagoda are invaluable cultural assets, conveying the essence of Heian Buddhist art to the present day.

In spring, approximately 700 cherry trees bloom, making the temple famous as the setting for the "Daigo Hanami" (cherry blossom viewing) organized by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. As flower petals flutter about, you can spend time in the pond-filled Sanboin Garden, where the splendor of Momoyama culture coexists with tranquility.

There's also a hiking trail to Kami-Daigo on the mountain, which takes about an hour one way, leading to a sacred area with an atmosphere of ascetic practices. The pure water source, "Daigo-sui," is a sacred spring that is said to be the origin of the temple's name.

📌 Useful Information
Address: 22 Daigo Higashioji-cho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 601-1325
Access: Approximately 10 minutes walk from Daigo Station on the Tozai Subway Line
Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (varies seasonally)
Admission Fee: Approximately 1,000-1,500 yen for Sanboin, Garan, and Reihokan (varies seasonally)
Parking: Available (paid)

Daigoji Temple is a place where history, nature, and faith blend together.
Experience the prayer of peace in the tranquility watched over by the Buddhas.

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#ZeroYenTravel2025Autumn

Post by Travel tiger | Oct 15, 2025