ABOUT
About this spot
Chion-in is the head temple of the Jodo (Pure Land) sect in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, built on the ground where the founder Honen spent his later years and died in 1212. Its large precinct lies at the foot of the Higashiyama hills, just east of Maruyama Park. The present grand halls date mainly from the Edo period, when the Tokugawa shoguns supported the temple. The Sanmon gate, built in 1621 and about 24 meters tall, and the Mieido main hall, rebuilt in 1639, are both National Treasures. The Mieido finished a major restoration in 2020. The bell tower holds a bell of about 3.3 meters in height and roughly 70 tons, one of Japan's largest, which is rung by 17 people on New Year's Eve. According to the official site, the temple is open from 6:00 to 16:00, with reception from 9:00. Hours differ on event days. The temple asks visitors not to come by car. From Kyoto Station, take city bus 206 and get off at Chion-in-mae, then walk 5 minutes.
Last updated October 23, 2026