Nishi-Hongan-ji Temple is a Pure Land Buddhist paradise within walking distance of Kyoto Station. It’s one of the best sights in the Kyoto Station area.
Nishi Hongan-ji temple
A slightly more subdued version of its nearby neighbor, Higashi-Hongan-ji Temple, this temple serves as the headquarters of the Hongan-ji Branch of the Jodo (Pure Land) School of Buddhism. Check out the enormous Goei-do Main Hall, the Daisho-in Hall and the fabulous carvings of the Kara-mon Gate. Since the temple is a little further from the station than Higashi-Hongan-ji Temple, it receives fewer visitors and it’s a more peaceful place for a stroll and a contemplative break.
English address:
Horikawa-dori, Hanaya-cho sagaru, Shimogyo-ku
Japanese address:
下京区堀川通花屋町下ル
Opening hours:
6am-5pm November-February
5.30am-5.30pm March, April, September, October
5.30am-6pm May-August
Admission: Free
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
15min walk from JR Kyoto Station Karasuma central gate
Telephone:
371-5181
Website:
Official Website (English)
Near To Here:
Nishi-Hongan-ji Temple is located in Kyoto Station area. See our complete list of things to do in Kyoto Station area, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Where Is This Place Located?
See these places on our Kyoto Google map:- Open the Kyoto map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help