[2025 Kyoto Attraction] Travel Guide for Tō-ji Temple (Updated Feb)

#2024 TRAVEL REVIEW #Kyoto Scenery of Maple #夜MAPLE #There is always a trip to go once in life The autumn wind blows and the maple leaves turn red. I didn’t expect that global warming would allow me to see red maples in December 😂 Now every inch of Kyoto is covered in orange! I have seen a few famous night maples, and this time the hotel was very close to Toji Temple, so I saw the beautiful reflection of my favorite one😍 🌟I originally thought that the East Temple is still a popular attraction, but I didn’t expect that entering after 8 o’clock, there are not many people and it is a small and comfortable space; the Medicine Buddha inside, with the lights shining on the Buddha, presents a simple and solemn look~ 🍁Ye Feng time: 18:00-21:30 (last admission at 9 o'clock) 🍁Purchase tickets: No reservation required, buy tickets directly at the door, 1,000 yen for adults, 500 yen for children, there is basically no need to queue up to enter the park ~

If you can only choose one place to view night maples in Kyoto, photographers recommend "To-ji Temple." It's the only temple that allows the use of tripods for night maple photography. The temple's red leaves, clear pond, and five-story pagoda are all worth seeing. The temple grounds are spacious, allowing visitors to spread out, so it doesn't feel too crowded. The best viewing period is until December 6th, so photographers looking to capture night maples shouldn't miss this spot! 【Tickets and Timing】 📅 November 1, 2023 (Wednesday) to December 10, 2023 (Sunday) 🕙 18:00 to 21:30 (last entry at 21:00) ❗️People start lining up around 5 PM, but the entry process is quick, and by 6:30 PM, you can enter directly. 🎫 1,000 yen 📍 1 Kujo-cho, Minami-ku, Kyoto City, To-ji Temple (Kyo-o Gokoku-ji) A 15-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station. 【Photography Tips】 - Hasselblad X1D2 XCD45 - Sony a1 FE24-70gm2 - Tripod, shutter release - Remember to keep warm! #KyotoTravel #KyotoNightMaples #KyotoAutumnLeaves

Today, I visited Toji Temple in Kyoto and was amazed by the vibrant red maple leaves! The photos are unedited and live! 🍁 As the only remaining structure from the Heian period in Kyoto, this temple is steeped in history, having stood for over a thousand years. The 55-meter-tall "Five-story Pagoda" is the tallest wooden structure in Japan. While many people know Toji for its cherry blossoms, the autumn foliage here is equally breathtaking! It's within walking distance from Kyoto Station, so if you arrive in the afternoon like I did, you can head straight over. The combination of the red leaves and the sunset truly embodies the essence of Kyoto! Entrance fee is 800 yen. #RomanticLifeRecorder #LivePhotos #KyotoTravel #KyotoAutumnLeaves #KansaiTravel #Kyoto #JapanFreeTravel #KyotoWalkingGuide

In this world, beautiful scenery is everywhere, especially in autumn Kyoto. During this season, Nijo Castle and To-ji Temple in Kyoto become excellent spots for viewing maple leaves. Whether in the sunlight of the day or the illumination of the night, the maple leaves show different charms. To make the most of this wonderful weather, planning a trip to Kyoto is a great choice. Remember to check the weather forecast in advance and choose a sunny day to set off, so you can better appreciate the beauty of the maple leaves. Additionally, traveling during off-peak times is also a good idea to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful viewing experience. Finally, don't forget to bring your camera to capture these beautiful moments. #KyotoTravel #MapleViewing #NightMaple

If you're in Kyoto recently, don't miss the night maple light show at Toji Temple. Although there are quite a lot of people visiting (surprisingly crowded at night 😂), the reflection of the five-story pagoda and the maple leaves on the lake is truly stunning. 🎫 Tickets are priced at 1000 yen for adults and 500 yen for middle school students and below. 📅 The event is open from November 1 to December 10, 2023. 🕧 Opening hours are from 18:00 to 21:30. #HighQualityPhoto #MapleSeason #JapanCarRental #JapanFreeTravel #KyotoMaple #MapleLeaves #JapanTravel

As you wander through the narrow streets of Eastern Kyoto, a tall pagoda appears with breathtaking beauty. To-ji Temple is a UNESCO world heritage site built in 794, as one of two original guardian temples of the Imperial city of Heiankyo. To-ji literally means ‘East temple’. 🚇 Take the metro to Kyoto station. Leave through the Hachijo exit and walk 15 minutes to To-ji temple. 🎫 A ticket is required for entry to the temple. Tickets cost 500 yen for one adult. 🌸 It is recommended to visit To-ji temple during the spring, just in time to see the cherry blossom trees in full bloom. There are many around the temple grounds and nearby streets, making this the perfect time for beautiful photos. To-ji is best known for it’s 55 metre tall pagoda that is actually the tallest wooden structure in Japan! Many people come to see the pagoda from the nearby streets and wear traditional clothing. Here you can find the most beautiful locations of the pagoda for photos 📸 #kyoto #japan #japantrip #mytravelhacks #cherryblossom2024 #historicallandmarks #localguides #unesco #worldheritage #summerdestinations

To-ji Temple is the final stop in Kyoto, conveniently located next to Kyoto Station. It's the perfect ending to your Kyoto journey. Upon entering To-ji, you'll be amazed by the magnificent architecture, especially the towering five-story pagoda, which is one of Kyoto's landmarks. Standing at the base of the pagoda and looking up, you feel small in comparison, and the grandeur of the tower fills you with awe. In addition to the beautiful architecture, To-ji also has an orchid pond, which is incredibly soothing. The pond is filled with beautiful orchids and adorable little ducks swimming around, making it super relaxing. The scenery, combined with the temple's tranquil atmosphere, makes you feel at ease no matter your reason for visiting. In summary, To-ji is truly a quiet and beautiful corner of Kyoto. It not only offers a rich history and culture but also a peaceful and leisurely ambiance. For those ending their Kyoto trip, this is undoubtedly an ideal final stop. You can appreciate the grandeur of the temple while enjoying a bit of natural beauty, making it the perfect conclusion to your Kyoto itinerary!

This spring, I had the privilege of visiting Kyoto, especially the ancient Toji Temple. The beauty of the night cherry blossoms here deeply moved my heart. Stepping into this historic land, I felt a connection with the souls of the past, filled with anticipation and gratitude, knowing that this would be a marvelous symphony of senses and soul. As night gradually fell, the lights of Toji Temple twinkled like stars, making the silhouette of the five-story pagoda even more mysterious. The soft white light flowed like water, soaking the cherry blossoms. Each petal shimmered and whispered in the faint glow, seemingly telling countless ancient stories. The cherry blossoms at this moment were completely different from their daytime softness, exuding an indescribable awe that made me hold my breath and feel the pulse of life. I strolled through the temple gardens, surrounded by dreamlike beauty. The reflection of the cherry blossoms on the water merged with the starlight, creating a serene and moving picture. In that instant, I couldn't help but pick up my camera, wanting to capture this beautiful and fleeting moment. Each press of the shutter was a tribute to the natural beauty, making me once again appreciate the preciousness and wonder of life. On this sacred land, I experienced unparalleled tranquility, my heart filled with gratitude. I thanked nature for bestowing such magnificent views upon us and history for allowing us to converse with the past at this moment. Every blooming cherry blossom, every gently dancing leaf, was a celebration of life, reminding me to cherish every moment. This spring's night cherry blossom journey not only provided a visual feast but also left an indelible impression deep in my soul. The night cherry blossoms at Toji Temple taught me the true meaning of gratitude and reminded me to slow down in the hustle and bustle of life to savor the beauty around me. I look forward to stepping onto this land again next year, reliving the awe and emotion, and letting each memory become an eternal treasure in my heart, constantly inspiring me to move forward on the journey of life.

To-ji Temple, one of Kyoto's most iconic ancient temples, is easily recognizable by its towering five-story pagoda that reaches into the sky. Built during the Heian period, this temple is not only a sacred site for Japanese Buddhism but also a witness to history. The pagoda stands in a serene courtyard, where the surrounding greenery and ancient buildings create a harmonious scene. Walking through the temple grounds, one can almost hear the prayers of monks and devotees from the past. Each Buddha statue and artifact holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. To-ji Temple is not only a symbol of religion but also a microcosm of Kyoto's long history, offering profound spiritual impact and tranquil reflection.

Toji Temple, winter has arrived at Toji Temple, but it still feels like autumn... Toji Temple, also known as Kyo-o-gokoku-ji, is located southwest of Kyoto Station in Japan and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Toji Temple was built in 796 AD, two years after Japan moved its capital to Kyoto (Heijo-kyo). At that time, there were two temples built on the east and west sides of Heijo-kyo, known as the East and West Temples. The West Temple no longer exists, leaving only the East Temple. Features The core buildings of Toji Temple include the Five-story Pagoda, the Kondo Hall, and the Kodo Hall. The Five-story Pagoda is 56.4 meters high, making it the tallest ancient pagoda in Japanese history. Although the existing pagoda is a reconstruction from the Edo period, it retains the original scale and style as much as possible. The Five-story Pagoda is not only a symbol of Toji Temple but also a symbol of Kyoto. The Kondo Hall was rebuilt in 1603, while the Kodo Hall was rebuilt in 1491 and repaired in 1598.

#japantrip Toji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto, is an essential destination for those seeking history and serenity. Known for its iconic five-story pagoda, the tallest in Japan, the temple offers a peaceful atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. The surrounding gardens and historical artifacts provide a deep connection to Japan’s Buddhist traditions, making it a truly enriching experience for visitors.

The ancient Toji Temple, with its history spanning a thousand years, stands amidst the smoke and dust of the old road. 📍 World Heritage Site: Toji Temple (Located southwest of Kyoto Station, a 10-minute walk) 📷: photo by me #Japan #BeautifulSceneryOnTheJourney #CasualPhotography #NatureIsTheBestColorist #NoteInspiration #MostBeautifulNightView

Today's step count reached a new high of 33,000 steps, with half of them completed in Shiga. In the morning, I visited Saikyoji, Hiyoshi Taisha, and the Old Chikurin-in in Shiga. Saikyoji had a small number of maple and ginkgo trees, but they were all exquisite and perfect for photography. Hiyoshi Taisha was also impressive, while the Old Chikurin-in was less so. In the afternoon, I went to Daigoji and Nishi Honganji. The main photography highlights at Daigoji are the bridge and pavilion over the lake. Nishi Honganji is most beautiful for its three large ginkgo trees, which are very majestic. In the evening, I visited Toji. The night maple at Toji is stunning and mesmerizing, with the reflection of the five-story pagoda and red maple in the canal being particularly beautiful. Today, I unlocked three World Heritage Sites: Daigoji, Nishi Honganji, and Toji. Along with Kinkakuji, Ginkakuji, Nijo Castle, Kiyomizu-dera, and Kozan-ji from previous days, and Tenryu-ji before the pandemic, I have now unlocked eight World Heritage Sites in Kyoto. Personally, I found Nijo Castle and Kinkakuji to be the most impressive. #Daigoji #NishiHonganji #Toji #Saikyoji #HiyoshiTaisha #OldChikurin-in #KyotoMaple #Ginkgo

In Japan, it gets dark by 5 PM, and by 6 PM, it feels like 9 PM. Many attractions stop entry by 4 PM, forcing me to wake up early. However, waking up early makes me hungry sooner, so I end up having dinner early. Passing by a station, I randomly boarded a bus, deciding to visit wherever it took me. I ended up at Tō-ji, a place I hadn't planned to visit. Surprisingly, there was already a long queue, stretching about a kilometer. Despite the long line, entry was quick. The area isn't very large, allowing for various photo opportunities, and the night maple viewing can be completed in less than an hour. (A tip: Night maple viewing is from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, with a 1000 yen cash-only ticket. It's better to go later to avoid crowds. We encountered a large crowd because we arrived just as it opened. By the time we left at 7:30 PM, the crowd had thinned significantly.) In the end, not giving up on queuing was worth it for the beautiful scenery. ❤❤❤ #JapanTravel #NightMapleViewing #TojiTemple

Kyoto Time: Late November Transportation: Kanto to Kansai Here are some stunning spots to enjoy the night maple leaves: Toji Temple: Known for its night maple views during the maple season, it's a popular spot where people line up with their cameras. Arrive around 6 or 7 PM to enjoy the view, which is even more beautiful in person than through a lens. Eikando Temple: With around 3,000 trees, the temple is illuminated from November 11 to December 5, creating an unforgettable scene of red leaves. Kimono Recommendation: Start booking two weeks in advance. Tekuteku is often fully booked, but we found a great alternative on Xiaohongshu with excellent value. The full set with accessories costs around 700-800 yen. The whole process, from hairstyling to wearing the kimono, takes about two hours, which is quite fast during the busy season. Kiyomizu-dera Sunset: Around 5 PM, walking down the hill of Kiyomizu-dera, you can capture stunning shots. Loved it! Bonus: Hotel Selection: Maple and cherry blossom seasons are peak times in Japan, with hotel prices doubling or tripling. It's advisable to book one to two months in advance. Most hotels offer free cancellation, so you can monitor price trends (usually fluctuating significantly two to three weeks prior). We booked late and noticed a price drop of two to three hundred on the last day, so we canceled and rebooked. Stay tuned for the next post about daytime maple leaves! #JapanMapleSeason #JapanNightMaple #KyotoMaple

The entry process is quick, and the scenery is stunning, making it perfect for photography. Highly recommended! Except for the first photo, all others are unfiltered and taken directly with a Xiaomi 13 Ultra. #KyotoNightMaple #AutumnLeavesHunting #TojiTemple #JapanTravel #KansaiTravel

The Thousand-Year-Old Toji Temple, a Symbol of Kyoto. The Five-Story Pagoda and nighttime maple viewing. During the autumn leaves season, the dates for nighttime illumination at various attractions are limited. If you're leaving Kyoto tomorrow, you must visit at least once, even celebrities like Tony Leung and Carina Lau have been here. #KyotoNightMaple #KyotoAutumnLeaves #KyotoToji

The night maple scenery at To-ji Temple in Kyoto is definitely worth seeing. Every autumn, To-ji Temple holds a night maple event where visitors can admire the illuminated maple leaves at night, creating a beautiful picture. To avoid the crowds, it is recommended that visitors go on weekday evenings. Additionally, purchasing tickets online in advance not only offers discounts but also avoids the hassle of queuing on-site. For travelers planning to visit Kyoto, the night maple event at To-ji Temple is an experience not to be missed. #Kyoto #KyotoTravel #NightMaple

The Buddha statues in the main hall look even more solemn and sacred at night. PS: Currently, only about 10% of the leaves have turned red, but the green leaves are also beautiful. There's no need to wait until they all turn red and the crowds increase. #LifestyleAesthetics #Kyoto #KyotoTravel #StudyRoom #AutumnLeaves #NightMaple #MapleViewing #Autumn

After enjoying some okonomiyaki for dinner, we headed straight to Toji Temple for night maple viewing. Unlike Kodaiji Temple, the queue at Toji was much shorter, taking only two minutes to enter. Upon entering, we were greeted by one of the highlights of the visit. As we strolled through the garden, we were surrounded by the beautiful night maple scenery. The garden also features two Buddha halls, offering a perfect blend of culture and nature. Overall, Toji Temple left a great impression, though the lighting was a bit too bright. Personally, I find Toji's night maples more captivating than those at Kodaiji Temple and Nijo Castle, with much more to see in the garden. #Japan #Kyoto #MapleLeaves #TojiTemple

Discover the enchanting beauty of Kyoto's night maple leaves and capture stunning photographs with your Fuji camera. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy the serene atmosphere, Kyoto offers a unique experience during the maple leaf season. Visit the iconic To-ji Temple, known for its breathtaking views and tranquil ambiance. This lesser-known temple provides a perfect backdrop for capturing the essence of Kyoto's autumn. Plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful photography session. Don't forget to explore the surrounding areas of Tokyo for more picturesque spots. With the right settings and a keen eye for aesthetics, you can create film-like photos that capture the spirit of Japan. Enhance your photography skills by experimenting with different color simulations and editing techniques. Whether you're a student studying in Japan or a traveler exploring the country's rich culture, Kyoto's maple leaves and temples offer a perfect blend of tradition and natural beauty. #Kyoto #KyotoTravel #KyotoMapleLeaves

For the second consecutive year, the night viewing at Toji Temple is in full swing. Currently, most of the leaves are still green, but a single 'early bloomer' red maple has been discovered and immediately surrounded by visitors eager to take 360-degree photos with it. Along with this, there's a photo from last year when the red leaves were at their peak in early December. According to current predictions, visitors in the coming weeks might witness the most beautiful maple leaves. #RedLeafSeason #TojiTemple #Kyoto #KyotoTravel #TojiNightMaple #ExploreAndSeeDifferentSceneries

When the maple leaves turn red, Toji Temple at night is truly stunning. If you've spent the day exploring and are unsure where to go after dinner, consider visiting Toji Temple for its special seasonal illumination. The entrance fee is 1000 yen. #Kyoto #KyotoTravel #KyotoMapleLeaves

On November 25, 2023, Kyoto's autumn foliage is a breathtaking display of vibrant colors and high saturation. The stunning views are captured in photos at Kiyomizu-dera and P9-P13 showcasing the night maple trees at To-ji. #JapanTravel #Kyoto #KiyomizuDera #JapaneseMaple

After experiencing the night maple at Kodaiji Temple, visiting the night maple at Toji Temple offers a different kind of beauty. Following the planned route, you'll be mesmerized by the maple leaves, reflections, and lights as soon as you enter. Although the entrance fee is not cheap, it's definitely worth the visit. Don't just focus on the night maple; the indoor areas are also open at night and are worth checking out.

For a unique and less crowded experience, consider visiting Toji Temple for night maple viewing. Located conveniently close to Osaka, it's just a quick drive off the highway. Unlike the bustling Kiyomizu-dera, Toji Temple offers a more intimate experience despite its smaller size. The night maple viewing is reportedly open until December 10th. #Japan #Kyoto #KyotoTravel #Temple #AutumnLeaves #HiddenGemsInJapan #NightMaple #MapleLeaves #MapleSeason #AutumnTrip #Travel #LocalGetaway

Thanks to Toji Temple for extending the light-up event until December 10th! Most of Kyoto's autumn foliage night illumination events ended on December 3rd, which left me feeling quite disappointed as I arrived in Kyoto on the 8th. However, just one night at Toji Temple was enough to satisfy me. Although the night view at Kodaiji Temple was beautiful, Toji Temple's grandeur was unmatched. The five-story pagoda alone added layers to the scenery, making me want to exclaim 'wow' throughout my visit. Toji Temple is a symbol of Heian-kyo, which was modeled after Chang'an, so my emotions were mixed with romantic imaginations of the Tang Dynasty's Chang'an. The waterfowl was photographed in the pond in front of the pagoda. I regretted not bringing my camera, as the phone photos didn't do justice to the beauty seen with the naked eye. Besides the night maple leaves, the three-dimensional mandalas in the Kondo and Kodo are worth seeing. Especially during nighttime visits, the dim lighting makes the statues appear more solemn, and the ancient wooden scent in the air adds to the mysterious atmosphere. Whether you understand Esoteric Buddhism or not, you can feel a power that seems to transcend time here. #JapanTravel #KyotoTravel #JapanAutumnFoliage

After dinner, head to Toji Temple to see the night maple leaves, offering a unique beauty! The maple leaves are at 30% progress, but with the addition of lighting and the reflection in the lake, Toji Temple looks very special! #TojiTemple #Kyoto #NightMaple

Japan truly excels at creating an atmospheric experience, and viewing maple leaves is no exception. For couples, a day trip to Arashiyama for maple leaf viewing and a boat ride on the Hozugawa River is highly recommended for a romantic outing. My husband won my heart with such a trip. The lighting for the night maple viewing is stunning, and there's a moat-like channel where you can capture reflections of the maple leaves if you're skilled with a camera (unfortunately, my photos didn't turn out well). Besides the Five-story Pagoda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the nearby Kondo Hall is impressive with its three magnificent golden Buddha statues visible as soon as you open the doors. It's a grand and solemn experience worth exploring for a different atmosphere. (Note: Photography is not allowed inside Kondo Hall.) Address: 1 Kujocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto, 601-8473, Japan. #Kyoto #TojiTemple #JapanTravel