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What is Toji-in Temple?
Toji-in Temple was founded in 1341 as a family temple of the Ashikaga Shoguns. It was founded in 1341 as a family temple of the Ashikaga shoguns, and is the first of the Ten Zen Temples. It is a valuable place that conveys the history of Zen Buddhism culture in Japan, with gravesites and wooden statues of successive shoguns enshrined here.
Basic Information
| Name | Toji-in Temple |
| Hours of Operation | 9:00 – 16:30 (Registration closes at 16:00) |
| Remarks | 9:00-15:00 (closed at 14:30) from December 30 to January 3. |
| Admission fee | Adults 600 yen, children 300 yen |
| Parking lot | Free parking available (10 cars) |
| Location | 63 Tojiin Kitamachi, Kita-ku, Kyoto, 603-8346, Japan |
| Phone: +81-(0)75-461-5786 | 075-461-5786 |
| Official website | https://toujiin.jp/ |
Features and Highlights
- Beautiful garden by Yumuso Kokushi
- Experience the history of the Ashikaga Shoguns
- Seasonal flowers can be enjoyed
- A Zen space where you can feel at peace
The garden at Toji-in Temple is known as a masterpiece of Zen Buddhism. Shinji-ike Pond in the east garden was named after the character for “heart” in the shape of the pond. Its serene appearance is calming and relaxing. Fuyo-ike Pond in the west garden can be viewed from the tea ceremony room, Seiren-tei. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of seasonal flowers in full bloom, with Mt.
History of Ashikaga Shoguns: Wooden statues of successive Ashikaga shoguns are enshrined in Toji-in Temple. The wooden statues lined up in Reikouden offer a glimpse into the character and times of each shogun. Visitors can feel the breath of the powerful men of the time as they contemplate the history of the shoguns.
Seasonal Flowers: The garden of Toji-in is filled with seasonal flowers. In spring, you can enjoy the camellias and satsuki (Japanese azalea), in summer the sarsaparilla, and in fall the autumn leaves. The withering scenery in winter is also tasteful and brings tranquility to the mind.
How to get there
By bus
- Kyoto City Bus ” Tojiin Minamimachi ” stop, 8 min. walk
- Kyoto City Bus / JR Bus ” Ritsumeikan Daigaku-mae ” stop, approx. 10 min. walk
Train
- Keifuku Dentetsu/Kitano line ” Tojiin/Ritsumeikan University Kinugasa Campus-mae ” station, 5 min. walk
Summary
Toji-in Temple is a peaceful place that combines history, nature, and the spirit of Zen. Take a stroll through the beautiful garden, experience the history of the Ashikaga shoguns, admire the seasonal flowers, and enjoy a moment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
