What is Nishi Honganji (Ryukokuzan Honganji)?
Nishi Honganji is the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu Honganji sect, located in Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City. Its official name is “Ryukokuzan Honganji,” but it is commonly known as “Nishi Honganji” to distinguish it from Higashi Honganji. In 1994, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.”
History and Origin
The history of Nishi Honganji dates back to Shinran Shonin (1173-1263), the founder of the Jodo Shinshu sect. After Shinran Shonin’s death, his daughter, Kakushinni, built a mausoleum in Higashiyama Otani, which is its origin.
History of Honganji Temple
- 1272: Founded as the mausoleum of Shinran Shonin
- 1591: Moved to its current location due to land donation by Toyotomi Hideyoshi
- 1602: Divided into East and West Honganji Temples by Tokugawa Ieyasu’s policies (birth of Higashi Honganji Temple)
- 1994: Registered as a World Heritage Site
Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s relocation to the current location was part of Kyoto’s urban planning, resulting in Nishi Honganji Temple being situated in a key transportation hub near Kyoto Station.
Architectural and Cultural Highlights
National Treasure Buildings
Goeido Hall
This is the central building of Nishi Honganji Temple, housing a wooden statue of Shinran Shonin. Boasting a magnificent scale of 48m east-west, 62m north-south, and 29m high, it is one of the largest existing wooden buildings in the world. Rebuilt in 1636, the interior boasts a spacious area of approximately 1,200 tatami mats.
Amida Hall
This hall, rebuilt in 1760, houses the principal image of Amida Buddha. A magnificent structure comparable to the Miei-do Hall, its interior spans approximately 550 tatami mats. In a solemn atmosphere, one can contemplate Amida Buddha, the central figure of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.
Hiunkaku Pavilion
One of the three most famous pavilions in Kyoto, alongside Kinkaku (Golden Pavilion) and Ginkaku (Silver Pavilion). This three-story pavilion embodies the refined elegance of the Momoyama period. Said to have been relocated from Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s Jurakudai Palace, its asymmetrical beauty and original design captivate viewers. While normally closed to the public, interior viewing is possible during special openings.
Other Important Cultural Properties
- Karamon Gate: A gate adorned with magnificent decorative carvings from the Momoyama period.
- Shoin (Study Hall): A group of National Treasure buildings consisting of the reception hall and the white study hall.
- Kita Noh Stage: One of the oldest existing Noh stages.
Points to Note During Your Visit
Flow of Your Visit
- Enter the temple grounds through the Miei-do Gate.
- Pay your respects to Shinran Shonin at the Miei-do Hall.
- Offer prayers to the principal image, Amida Buddha, at the Amida-do Hall.
- Admire the exquisite carvings of the Karamon Gate.
- Stroll through the temple grounds and enjoy the magnificent temple architecture.
Notes for Visitors
- Shoes are strictly prohibited inside the Miei-do Hall and Amida-do Hall (no slippers needed; enter barefoot or in socks).
- Photography is prohibited inside.
- Please visit in silence and be considerate of other visitors.
- Viewing of restricted areas such as Hiyunkaku is limited to the exterior only.
Recommended Visiting Time
Early morning (around 6:00-8:00) is recommended. There are fewer visitors, allowing for a peaceful and tranquil visit. You can also participate in the morning service (Jinjo), experiencing a calm and peaceful atmosphere while listening to the monks chanting.
Benefits and Faith
Teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism
Nishi Honganji Temple, as the head temple of the Jodo Shinshu Honganji sect, transmits the teachings of Shinran Shonin that believing in the original vow of Amida Buddha and chanting the Nembutsu leads to rebirth in the Pure Land.
Expected Benefits
- Peace of Mind: Liberation from anxiety and worries through the compassion of Amida Buddha
- Family Safety: Wishing for the health and happiness of family members
- Ancestral Remembrance: Gratitude and remembrance for those who have passed away
- Guidance for Life: Learning how to live through the teachings of Shinran Shonin
In Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, we value the recitation of Amida Buddha’s name with gratitude more than worldly benefits.
Access Information
Access by Train
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Kyoto Station (northwest from the Karasuma Exit)
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Gojo Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Omiya Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line
Access by Bus
From Kyoto Station Bus Terminal
- Immediately after alighting at “Nishi Honganji-mae” bus stop (Kyoto City Bus routes 9, 28, and 75)
- Travel time: Approximately 5 minutes
Access by Car
- Approximately 20 minutes from the Meishin Expressway “Kyoto Minami IC”
- Private Parking: Free parking available for visitors (approximately 50 spaces; may be full during peak hours)
Basic Information
- Location: 600-8501 Honganji-monzen-cho, Horikawa-dori Hanayacho-sagaru, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Visiting Hours: 5:30-17:00 (may vary depending on the season)
- Admission Fee: Free entry to the temple grounds (special viewings such as the Shoin may be charged)
- Phone: 075-371-5181
- Official Website: https://www.hongwanji.kyoto/
Nearby Tourist Attractions
- Higashi Honganji: Approximately 15 minutes on foot, head temple of the Jodo Shinshu Otani sect
- Toji: Approximately 20 minutes on foot, World Heritage site famous for its five-story pagoda
- Kyoto Station Building: Approximately 15 minutes on foot, shopping and dining
- Kyoto Aquarium: Approximately 20 minutes on foot, located in Umekoji Park
Nishi Honganji Temple is one of the closest World Heritage sites to Kyoto Station, making it an ideal temple to visit at the beginning or end of your Kyoto sightseeing.
