Tour of Nishi-Honganji Temple
Joined 2014
(History of the Temple)
Designated as the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1994, Nishi-Honganji Temple is the mother temple and headquarters of the Honganji faction of Jodo (Pure Land) Shinsyu sect of Buddhism. The Jodo-Shinsyu teaching was established by the Reverend Shinran-shonin (1173-1263) in the Kamakura period. He underwent austere trainings and hardships in various parts of the country before returning to Kyoto to complete his work, "kyogyoshinsho", or The True teaching, Practice and Realization of the Pure Land Way on Buddhism. After his demise, his daughter erected a mausoleum at Higashiyama, Kyoto, which became the foundation of Nishi-Honganji Temple today. In the 16th century, it was moved to and re-established at the present location.
(Teachings of the sect)
Followers of this sect will be reborn in the Pure Land and attain Enlightenment. They will be able to live lives to the fullest, become aware of both potentials and limitations in this world, overcome difficulties and realize happiness within their lifetime.
( What you can see in the temple)
There are many structures in the precincts, many of which have the status of National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties of Japan. They are:" Amidado" (Hall of "Amida" Buddha, built in 1760), ""Goeido" (Founder`s Hall, completed in 1636), "Karamon" Gate, Shoin Hall, "Hiunkaku" House (believed to be part of Jurakudai Palace built by a ruler of Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi) and others. There is also a 400-year-old huge ginkgo tree called the "upside-down ginkgo tree", because it looks as if its roots were spread into the sky.
( How to enjoy)
Walk around the entire compound of the temple, have a look at all of the magnificent structures and trees and imagine the power of Buddhism. You will learn the meaning of life. All that you see will deeply impress you and remain in your memory. You can pray for the peace of mind before the image of the Reverend Shinran-shonin in the Buddhist altar inside the halls sitting straight on your legs, or relax sitting on the wooden-floored corridors.
(Others)
There is no entrance fee, but you are supposed to offer whatever amount of monetary donations to the temple to express your appreciation. The bus fare is 230 yen.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
At JR Kyoto station
Amidado Hall
Goeido Hall
Ending Point
At JR Kyoto station
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
guide fee, hotel pick-up in Kyoto area
transportation fee (you and guide), lunch, dinner, monetary donations to the temple, hotel pick-up in areas beyond Kyoto area
Tour Important Information
Important message from the supplier
I would like at least 7 days notice before a booking.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2014
About Tour Guide Tatsuhiro N.
It took me some 20 years to be qualified for this job and I feel honored for being able to help tourists from abroad understand our nation and culture. Japan is a beautiful country with a long history, tradition and rich cultural heritages, having various features in each of the four distinct seasons. Although there are now many visitors from abroad, mainly from Asian countries, they are mostly interested in shopping taking advantage of cheaper yen rather than understanding our people and culture. Kyoto and Nara are the two cities best known by foreign tourists, but not all the aspects of Japanese culture are concentrated there. If you visit the countryside other than these two cities, you will never fail to see the beautiful natural surroundings and people who will warmly welcome you. I wish to work as the bridge between Japanese people and tourists from all over the world.
Reviews
Wilson W.
Premium tour of Kyoto (1) : Arashiyama, Nijo-jo Castle & Kinkakuji temple
“Great tour”
Hiro was a great guide and gentleman.
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Bill-san & LeAnn-san, Thank you very much for your favorable comment, which encouraged and inspired me to do a better job as an entertainer for tourists from abroad. Your pleasure is mine. I am sure you are now settled in your home in the state of Arizona consisting largely of deserts. I wish you two an even greater happiness and better health. Regards, Hiro
“Fun Day in Nara”
Hiro-san (Tatsuhiro) was a thoughtful and interesting guide. He brought along home-made props to help us dress up and take pictures for this location. We are slow paced seniors so this 1/2 day travel by subway and walking tour to see the Great Buddha and the deers in Nara was an exhilarating day trip.
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Nina-san, Thank you very much for your favorable review. I am much encouraged reading it. Above all, I am glad the two-day tour was completed safely and that I saw your smiling faces all the way. I wish you all a good luck and happy days ahead. See you again sometime somewhere. Regards, Hiro
“Kind and knowledgeable guide for our day in Kyoto”
Hiro-san expertly guided my son and I on a day tour of Kyoto. Hiro met us promptly as promised and kindly provided a sun umbrella for the hot day. He expertly guided us around Kyoto using walking and public transportation, making us feel like locals. Hiro has a very kind manner and was very patient with us, allowing to make changes during the day as needed. He also brought along fun photo props for our day, and promptly sent us photos of us that he had taken. Kyoto is a beautiful city and we look forward to returning!
Tatsuhiro N.
Hi Keith-san & Josh-san, Thank you very much for your favorable comment. I am glad you enjoyed a tour in Kyoto and I was much encouraged by your words. I wish you could have another opportunity to visit the city in the near future. I wish you an even greater success in your business and a good luck for Josh-san in his study. Regards, Hiro
$65/ per group
More tours by Tatsuhiro N.
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Premium tour of Kyoto (2):Nishi-Honganji temple, Higashi-Honganji temple & Shoseien garden
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