Welcome to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient capital for over 1,000 years!
During the Winter Special campaign weeks, Kyoto city specially offers several very historic landmarks that are usually closed to public viewing and only viewable from the outside. Don't miss it!
To-ji Temple Gojyunoto (Five-Story Pagoda)
Period of opening to the public : Until March 22, 2010.
Time of opening to the public : 9:00 - 16:00
Admission fees : 800 yen. (includes normal admission)
*May be closed for Buddhist service without notice.
One of the must-see places is the iconic five-story Pagoda of the Toji Temple, being familiar to people as a symbol of Kyoto!!
This pagoda is the tallest in the country, and the very original pagoda was built in the 9th century. After a few fire incidents, the current tower was built in the mid 17th century. Since the tower was contructed of wood and is too fragile for regular public visits, the special admission inside the pagoda is a significant opportunity for visitors.
A thick central “heart pillar” spans the inside of the tower vertically, and Buddha statues are positioned around it for protection. The ceilings, pillars, and walls are decorated with colorful pictures. In addition, the wonderful Buddha statues inside the main Kondo hall (national treasure) and the Kodo (important cultural asset) can be viewed.
Access: City Bus from Kyoto sta. : Toji-higashimonmae stop Bus NO. 42 (Platform C4)
Or Walk 15 min from Kyoto station (Kintetsu-line) along the Shinkansen railway tword the west.
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One of another rare opportunity is Sanmon Gate, Chion-in Temple
Period of opening to the public : Until March 22, 2010.
Time of opening to the public : 10:00 - 15:40
Admission fees : 800 yen. (includes normal admission)
Chionin is the head temple of the Jodo sect and one the the most popular Buddhist sects in Japan. The two-story Sanmon Gate, entrance gate, is located alongside the road between Maruyama Park and Shorenin Temple.
Standing 24 meters tall and 50 meters wide, the majestic Sanmon Gate built in 1621 is the world's largest wooden gate. The gate's balcony is usually not open to the public, only during this campaign!! Interior of Sanmon Gate (National Treasure), Houkan Shaka Nyoraizazo sculpture (Sculpture of a seated Buddha with a jeweled crown) Sixteen Arhats sculpture
Another Highlights of Chionin is "Viewpoint above the Hojo Garden" You can enjoy the beautiful panorama view of Kyoto city like from the top of the mountain.
Don't miss the largest bell in Japan, too!!
(Click to Enlarge)
Access: a five minute walk from the nearest bus stop, Chionin-mae. from Kyoto sta. (20 min.) Bus NO. 206 (Platform D2)
