Kōdai-ji is a Rinzai Zen temple founded in 1606 by Nene (Kita-no-Mandokoro, later Kōdai-in) to mourn her husband Toyotomi Hideyoshi, set on a Higashiyama hillside between Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera. Built with backing from Hideyoshi's successor Tokugawa Ieyasu, it is celebrated for its lavish Kōdai-ji maki-e lacquerwork and its gardens, and today draws crowds for its spring, summer, and autumn nighttime illuminations.
Hashintei, the raked-gravel karesansui garden before the Hōjō, evoking a sea of white sand — and the stage for the spring projection-mapping show
A stroll-style pond garden attributed to Kobori Enshū, spanned by the Kangetsudai moon-viewing pavilion (an Important Cultural Property) where Nene is said to have gazed at the moon
The Otama-ya mausoleum, decorated with signature Kōdai-ji maki-e (gold and silver sprinkled in lacquer), enshrining wooden effigies of Hideyoshi and Nene
Two teahouses in the style of tea master Sen-no-Rikyū — Kasatei and the rare two-story Shiguretei — relocated here from Fushimi Castle
Around 1,000 maple trees and a bamboo-lined path rivaling Arashiyama; in mid-to-late November the autumn colors mirrored in the pond create a stunning 'upside-down garden'
Good to know
RulesPhotography is prohibited inside certain halls (e.g., the Otama-ya mausoleum), and you must remove your shoes to step onto the interior floors. Watch for on-site signage.
SafetyThe temple is built into a hillside, so reaching the mausoleum and teahouses above the Kangetsudai involves many steps and slopes — dimly lit and slippery during night illuminations, so wear sturdy shoes.
SeasonDuring the spring projection-mapping viewings (Mar 13–May 6, 2026) and peak autumn foliage, crowds are heavy and visitors are rotated quickly (about 3 minutes) through the Hashintei viewing area, so you can't linger. Confirm bloom/foliage timing, night schedules, and fees before you go.
MannersThis is an active Zen temple and the sacred mausoleum of Hideyoshi and his wife. Keep quiet and avoid disturbing worshippers with tripods or flash.
RulesFees, hours, and special night-viewing prices change with each seasonal event (the official site lists 800 yen for adults, 1,200 yen for a combined Entoku-in ticket). Check the official website for the latest at the time of your visit.
Practical info
In the heart of Higashiyama, on the walking route between Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera — easy to combine. From Kyoto Station, take city bus 206 to 'Higashiyama Yasui,' then walk about 7–10 minutes. Open 9:00–17:30 (last entry 17:00); confirm current fees and night-viewing dates on the official site.
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