If you are visiting Kyoto, you should visit a place that evokes a page of history: Honnoji Temple! This temple is known as the setting of the famous “Honnoji Incident” in Japanese history, in which Nobunaga Oda was attacked by Mitsuhide Akechi during his stay in the temple. Even today, the temple’s tranquil precincts are a special place where visitors can feel close to history.
Let’s take a deeper look at the attractions of Honnoji!
Table of Contents
What is Honnoji Temple?
Honnoji Temple is a Jodo sect temple located in Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, and is widely known as the site of the “Honnoji Incident ” in which Nobunaga Oda lost his life. This historic event is considered one of the most iconic events of Japan’s Warring States period and a must-see for many history buffs.
Features of Honnoji
- Historical background: Known as the site of Oda Nobunaga’s final days, the temple occupies an important place in Japanese history.
- Quiet atmosphere: Despite its location in the heart of the city, the temple has a quiet and serene atmosphere that provides visitors with a sense of peace and tranquility.
- Monuments and Exhibits: Materials and monuments related to the Honnoji Incident provide visitors with an opportunity to remember the events of the time.
- Easy access: Located in the center of Kyoto City, the hotel is a very convenient base for sightseeing and business.
- Seasonal beauty: The scenery in and around the temple changes with the seasons, offering something new to discover each time you visit.
Places to see
Historic Main Hall
In the main hall, which is the center of Honnoji Temple, you can spend a quiet time and think about the history of those days.
Memorial Pagoda for Nobunaga Oda
The memorial tower built to honor Oda Nobunaga is a must-see spot when visiting Honnoji.
Seasonal Scenery
Visitors can enjoy the seasonal beauty of nature in and around the temple grounds, such as cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
Access
Honno-ji Temple is easily accessible from Karasuma-Oike Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line, or Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line, which is about a 5-minute walk from the temple. The easy accessibility from the center of the city is one of the reasons why it is so easy to visit.
Recommended time to visit
Honnôji Temple can be visited throughout the year, but the scenery of the temple grounds becomes even more beautiful especially during the cherry blossom season and the season of autumn leaves. The cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season in fall are recommended!
Tips on how to enjoy Honnôji more
When visiting Honnoji, learning about its historical background beforehand will make your visit more meaningful. Also, strolling through the old streets in the surrounding area will give you a sense of the times.
Conclusion
Located in the heart of Kyoto, Honnoji Temple is a quiet spot where you can feel the history of the city. It is an attractive place not only as the final resting place of Nobunaga Oda, but also for its seasonal beauty and easy accessibility.
When you visit Kyoto, be sure to visit Honnôji Temple!
