Kyoto Sights

Guidebooks

Myoshin-ji

Write a review

Myoshin-ji Review

Surrounded by thick stone walls, this complex holds some great treasures within its 47 temples. The biggest tourist draw is in the lecture hall of the main temple, with its stunning painting of a dragon stretching across the expansive ceiling. In rendering the lifelike creature, the painter made clever use of a perspective to make it seem like the dragon's eyes glare at you wherever you walk. Japan's oldest bell is also at daily use in Myoshin-ji, tolling out the hour for meditation since 698. Shunko-in, one of the 47, keeps a Hidden Christian bell; made in Portugal, the bell was placed in Nanban-ji Church, the first Christian church in Kyoto in 1576 and the center of Catholic missionary activity until the religious persecution brought about its destruction. Buses 61, 62, and 63 stop at Myoshin-ji-mae; otherwise take a JR Sagano Line train to Hanazono-cho.

    Contact Information

  • Address: 1 Hanazono Myoshinji-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, 616-8035 | Map It
  • Cost: ¥500 for lecture hall (20-min guided tour required), ¥400 for most smaller temples
  • Hours: Nov.--Mar., daily 9:10--3:40; Apr.--Oct., daily 9:10--4:40.
  • Location: Western Kyoto
Write a review

Fodorite Reviews

Be the first to review this property

Free Fodor's Newsletter

Subscribe today for weekly travel inspiration, tips, and special offers.

· Browse Kyoto sights

By Location

 Fodor's Trip Planning Ideas

Travel Deals in Kyoto

* Some taxes, fees additional

· Forums Trip Reports

  • A tale of two Japans: a trip report

    Greetings all
    We are back, and I am jotting down a few things quickly while my mind is still fresh.
    First off: thanks to the many Japanophiles here on Fodors who infected us with their enthusiasm: hawaiiantraveller, Read more

  • Wild Hokkaido!

    Hokkaido, northern island is an amazing destination. Read more

View more trip reports

·

View more travel discussions

· News & Features

View more blog stories