Kōdai-ji, Buddhist temple in Higashiyama district, Kyoto, Japan
Kōdai-ji is a Buddhist temple in Kyoto with traditional architecture from the Momoyama period, distinguished by carefully designed interior spaces and decorative elements. The complex comprises several buildings and a central garden with two ornamental ponds connected by bridges.
The temple was founded in 1606 when Nene, wife of feudal lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, established it as a memorial. The creation came after her husband's death and reflects the artistic and spiritual ideals of that era.
The temple displays exceptional examples of makie lacquerware, where gold powder designs stand out against black lacquered surfaces throughout the interior. This artistic craft is visible in every room and reflects the artistic standards of the founding period.
The temple is easily accessible on foot and opens daily for visitors, with hours varying by season. During spring and autumn, special illuminated garden viewings take place, making evening visits worthwhile.
The Otama-ya hall contains original ship components from Hideyoshi's vessel in its ceiling and houses seated statues of the feudal lord and his wife. This unexpected connection to Hideyoshi's maritime past shows the founder's personal devotion to her late husband.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Kyoto is a city where history is found around every corner. You will see Buddhist temples with curved roofs, Shinto shrines hidden in forests, imperial palaces with grand gates, and castles that remind visitors of old warriors. Well-kept gardens invite long walks, and older neighborhoods keep their...
Yasaka Shrine
398 m
Three-year Slope
478 m
Hōkan-ji
300 m
Daiun-in
177 m
Ōtani Sobyō
235 m
Maruyama Park
287 m
Entoku-in
159 m
Two-year Slope
230 m
An'yō-ji
457 m
Yasaka Kōshin-dō
343 m
Chōraku-ji
296 m
Gion Kobu Kaburen-jo
491 m
Ryozen Museum of History
239 mHigashiyama Ryōzen Castle
444 m
Sōrin-ji
180 m
Seiryū-ji
246 m
Shōbō-ji
355 m
Japan Kanji Museum & Library
496 m
Ryōzen-honbyō
457 m
Nittai-ji
441 m
KYOTO CHOURAKUKAN
269 m
Ryozen museum
241 m
Kiyomizu Sannenzaka Museum
373 m
Ichinenzaka
197 m
Yasaka Shrine Honden
402 m
Kodai-ji Sho Museum
120 m
Chion-ji Sanmon
453 m
Jūhon-ji
201 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes