Chion In Temple

Sometimes called the Vatican of Pure Land Buddhism, this vast temple is one of the most and popular temples in the city. It’s highly recommended.

[Chion-in Sanmon temple: Aberu.Go / Shutterstock.com]

Everything about Chion-in is on a grand scale, starting with the vast san-mon gate that serves as the official entrance to the compound. Before entering the temple, take a moment to admire the mind-bogglingly complex joinery that went into the construction of the san-mon gate. Then, step through and climb the steep steps up to the main compound (note that this staircase was used as a set in the 2003 Tom Cruise film The Last Samurai).

Cross the open plaza and you’ll soon be struck by the awesome sight on the main hall of the temple (known in Japanese as the “Goei-do”). It’s free to enter this hall and we highly recommend that you do: put your shoes in a bag and enter the hall and just spend a few minutes (or hours) soaking up the chanting of the priests. After this, don’t miss the fine image of Amida Buddha in the adjoining Amida-do Hall then climb the steps to see the temple’s 70-ton bell which is rung on New Year’s Eve.

Please note that the main hall of Chion-in Temple is presently being renovated. Construction finishes in March 2019. However, the temple is still well worth a visit and you can visit all areas except those under construction.

English address:
400 Rinka-cho, Higashiyama-ku

Japanese address:
東山区林下町400

Opening hours:
9am-4:30pm, last entry 4pm

Admission:
Grounds: Free
Inner buildings and gardens:
Adults: ¥300
Junior and elementary school students: ¥150
(one of the two gardens not open since May 2011 due to major renovation work of the main temple building, but the admission has been discounted from ¥400 for that reason)

Non-smoking area: Yes

Nearest Transport:
5min walk from Chion-in-mae Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 206 from Kyoto Station
15min walk from Higashiyama Station, Tozai subway line

Telephone: 531-2111

Website: Official Website

Where Is This Place Located?

• Open the Kyoto map
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Near To Here:
Chion-in Temple is located in Kyoto’s Southern Higashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Southern Higashiyama, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.

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