An outstanding Zen Temple, built in memory of Toyotomi Hideyoshi
Kodai-ji Temple is located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district between Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizudera Temple. It was established in 1605 in memory of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan’s greatest historical figures, by his wife Nene, who is also enshrined at the temple.
Kodai-ji Temple is renowned for its historical figures and treasured artifacts. Its two teahouses were designed by Sen no Rikyu, the most celebrated master of the Japanese tea ceremony.
On the hillside behind the temple stands a memorial hall dedicated to Hideyoshi and Nene, richly decorated with exquisite lacquerwork. Farther up the hill are two historic teahouses, and the return path to the main temple buildings leads visitors through a serene bamboo grove.
Two impressive zen gardens
The temple buildings at Kodai-ji Temple are surrounded on two sides by impressive Japanese gardens. One is a striking rock garden, featuring a vast expanse of carefully raked gravel symbolizing the ocean. The other is a beautiful tsukiyama-style garden, complete with a tranquil pond, man-made hills, decorative stones, and elegant pine and maple trees.
The Kaizan-do Hall and the Kangetsudai covered walkway are seamlessly incorporated into the landscape design, allowing visitors to admire the gardens from a variety of scenic viewpoints.
Kodai-ji Temple（高台寺）
Address : 526 Shimokawaracho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0825
Access : 20-minute walk from Gion Shijo station on the Keihan main line.
20-minute walk from Kawaramachi station on the Hankyu line.
5-minute walk from Kyoto city bus stop Higashiyama-Yasui.
Hours : 09:00 to 17:00
Admission : 600 yen
Events
Special Illumination in Spring
From mid-March to early May each year, Kodai-ji Temple is illuminated at night with special seasonal lighting. Its beautiful gardens and graceful weeping cherry trees create a truly magical atmosphere.
Special Night Visit in Summer
Kodai-ji Temple offers a special summer night visit, when its magnificent temple buildings, refined Japanese gardens, and tranquil bamboo grove are beautifully illuminated. Visitors can also enjoy captivating projection mapping shows that blend historic scenery with modern technology.
Kodai-ji Temple Evening Illumination / Autumn
The garden at Kodai-ji Temple features a serene pond surrounded by vibrant autumn trees. During the fall foliage season, the area is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere as the brilliant colors of the leaves reflect on the water.