Visiting Tō-ji Temple in Kyoto
Visiting Tō-ji Temple in Kyoto at the end of September was a different kind of experience. This was off season—everything was deep green and lush, and the gardens didn’t look like they were staged for visitors. Pruning isn’t usually done until May and December, so many plants appeared slightly wild and overgrown, but that simplicity gave the place its own calm character.
Tō-ji (東寺, “East Temple”) is a Shingon Buddhist temple in Minami-ku, Kyoto, Japan. It was founded in 796, shortly after the capital moved to Heian-kyō, making it one of the oldest temples in Kyoto. At the time, it was one of only three Buddhist temples officially permitted in the new capital. Today, it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.
What Makes Tō-ji Worth Visiting
Approaching Tō-ji, the first thing that catches your eye is the five-storey pagoda—the tallest wooden tower in Japan. Rebuilt in 1643 during the Edo period, the pagoda stands 54.8m high and is designated a National Treasure. It’s an unmistakable symbol of Kyoto and a powerful focal point for photography, even when the skies are pale and the foliage hasn’t turned colour yet.
Inside the temple complex are several other important buildings that span multiple historical periods, from the Heian through the Muromachi, Momoyama, and Edo periods. Five structures on the grounds are officially recognised as National Treasures, including the Lotus Flower Gate, Miei Hall, Golden Hall, the pagoda itself, and the Kanchiin Guest Hall.
A Quiet Visit in Late September
Because I visited in late September—off the peak autumn season—the temple didn’t have the sharp contrasts of fall colours. Instead, large swathes of deep green and informal growth created a quieter and more meditative mood. The garden and temple buildings felt integrated into the natural surroundings rather than designed as picturesque backdrops.
This timing also meant fewer crowds, which gave me space to photograph details that might be overlooked during busier months. If you’re planning a Kyoto itinerary outside the classic cherry blossom or autumn leaf seasons, Tō-ji offers an authentic experience where history feels present rather than staged.
Practical Tips for Visiting Tō-ji
Location: Tō-ji is southwest of Kyoto Station in Minami-ku, an easy walk or short train ride from central Kyoto.
Best Seasons: Spring and autumn remain the most popular for gardens, but late September shows a different side of the temple grounds.
What to Look For: Don’t miss the five-storey pagoda and the ancient buildings designated as National Treasures. The temple’s principal image is of Yakushi Nyorai, the Medicine Buddha—a detail worth noting if you’re exploring its religious significance.
If you’re curious to see what Tō-ji feels like outside the peak tourist seasons, my video gives a good visual sense of the site in late September and complements the photos here.
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With twelve years of professional landscaping experience under her belt, Anika Ogusu is your perfect guide to the world of Japanese gardens. Her love of nature began early, in the woods near her childhood home and the garden of her grandmother’s house. During her teenage years she developed a strong interest in Japanese culture, and after university she decided to combine her love of Japan and gardens into a profession. Anika started her career as chief gardener in charge of the perennial valley at the Botanical Garden in Hamburg, Germany, then moved to Tokyo in pursuit of her dream. For two years she apprenticed under local landscape designers and learned the art of Japanese garden design, construction and maintenance. Now, in partnership with Real Japanese Gardens (www.japanesegardens.jp), her wish is to spread the magic of Japanese gardens to the rest of the world. Her in-depth guide books on gardens throughout Japan are available in eBook format or paperback. In her free time, Anika enjoys exploring her adopted country (especially green moss gardens), and soaking up nature and any details that interest her.
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With twelve years of professional landscaping experience under her belt, Anika Ogusu is your perfect guide to the world of Japanese gardens. Her love of nature began early, in the woods near her childhood home and the garden of her grandmother’s house. During her teenage years she developed a strong interest in Japanese culture, and after university she decided to combine her love of Japan and gardens into a profession. Anika started her career as chief gardener in charge of the perennial valley at the Botanical Garden in Hamburg, Germany, then moved to Tokyo in pursuit of her dream. For two years she apprenticed under local landscape designers and learned the art of Japanese garden design, construction and maintenance. Now, in partnership with Real Japanese Gardens (www.japanesegardens.jp), her wish is to spread the magic of Japanese gardens to the rest of the world. Her in-depth guide books on gardens throughout Japan are available in eBook format or paperback. In her free time, Anika enjoys exploring her adopted country (especially green moss gardens), and soaking up nature and any details that interest her.
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