Lecture Tour, Toji Temple, 1 Thousand Kannon

Kyoto , Japan

Lecture Tour, Toji Temple, 1 Thousand Kannon

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Paper ticket only accepted

About this experience

Hi, mature tourists including seniors who want to immerse in our history, art and hidden stories! Focus on my favorite 2 world heritage temples and sushi to get you more insightful about the details of them including breathtaking Buddhist statues without worrying about transport! Make your experience once in a lifetime memory.
I'm an experienced language specialist and am currently studying Japanese Buddhist art at Buddhism Univ. for my next career.
Toji Temple stands out with its iconic 5-story pagoda that you see when approaching Kyoto Station by Shinkansen. It houses amazing national treasures as the center of Esoteric Buddhism and one of the oldest temples in Kyoto, preserved over 1,200 years. In Sanjusangendo stand spectacular 1001 Kannon statues watching over us with merciful mystical smile, which makes me cry every time I see them. After visiting them, you will enjoy sushi lunch at a highly rated sushi restaurant. Don't miss this unique opportunity!

Available options

Taxi Lecture Tour, Toji Temple, 1 Thousand Kannon & Sushi

What's included

Taxi fare from Sanjusangendo to the sushi restaurant (Kyoto Senryo) near Kyoto Station is included.

Taxi fare from Toji Temple to Sanjusangendo Temple is included.

Taxi fare from Kyoto Station to Toji Temple is included.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

What impresses you first when you approach Kyoto Train Station must be 5-story 55m high pagoda. Yes, it's the UNESCO world cultural heritage, and one of the icons that represent Kyoto, the pagoda in Toji Temple. Toji Temple was built at the end of 8th century to the east of Rajo Gate, the central entrance to the Japan's ancient capital Kyoto. The temple then was entrusted to Kobo Daishi, one of the most renowned Buddhist priests in Japan. It houses more than 25 Buddhist statues of National Treasure or National Important Cultural Property that are overwhelming and breathtaking.
I’m looking forward to meeting and interacting with enthusiastic learners who are truly respectful of our history and culture! Note that the native/business level of English is needed.

Stop 2 Pass by

Sanjusangendo is famous worldwide for its 1001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. The temple was founded in 1164 and rebuilt a century later after the original structure had been destroyed in a fire.
Measuring 120 meters, the temple hall is Japan's longest wooden structure. The name Sanjusangendo (literally "33 intervals") derives from the number of intervals between the building's support columns, a traditional method of measuring a building's size. In the center of the main hall sits a large, wooden statue of a 1000-armed Kannon (Senju Kannon) that is flanked on each side by 500 statues of human sized 1000-armed Kannon standing in ten rows.
Together they make for an awesome sight.
1000-armed Kannon are equipped with 11 heads to better witness the suffering of humans and with 1000 arms to better help them fight the suffering. Note that the actual statues have only 42 arms each. Subtract the two regular arms and multiply by the 25 planes of existence to get the full thousand.

After the temple tour, we are scheduled to go to "Sushi Kyoto Senryo", the highly rated sushi restaurant and enjoy sushi lunch and conversation over viewing my favorite photo book about Toji temple created by Ken Domon, one of Japan' s most talented photographers.

What's not included

At Sushi Kyoto Senryo, please select from 4 kinds of sushi lunch (￥1,980, ￥3,500, ￥5,800, ￥8,200 tax included). Sushi and beverages except for water and Japanese tea need to be paid.

Admission fees for Toji Temple and Sanjusangendo are not included.

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We will meet at the exit of JR Kyoto Train Station and go to Toji Temple together. It takes around 10 mins to get there by taxi.

Important notes

Travelers need to purchase a ticket at the ticket window placed inside the premise of the temple. Since it is an old temple, the ticket is paper based only and only cash is acceptable. I appreciate your respect and understanding.

About Kyoto

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.

Top Attractions

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.

Religious 2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike) Free

Kiyomizu-dera

A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)

Gion

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).

Cultural 1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event) Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaiseki Ryori

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.

Dinner Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.

Matcha Desserts

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Obanzai

Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Cycling through the countryside Rafting on the Hozu River Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic walks in gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.

15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn) 59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto

By train

Kyoto Station

By bus

Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gion Higashiyama Arashiyama Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

Day trips

Nara

40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day

Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Uji

20 km from Kyoto • Half day

Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).

Kurama and Kibune

25 km from Kyoto • Full day

Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th) Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd Aoi Matsuri • May 15th

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.