Daigo-ji Temple is Kyoto’s largest temple complex, extending across Mount Daigo in the city’s southeastern area. The temple includes three main areas: Sanbo-in, Shimo Daigo (Lower Daigo), and Kami Daigo (Upper Daigo), which requires a scenic but challenging one-hour uphill hike.
Highlights:
- Sanbo-in: Established in 1598, Sanbo-in is famous for the Daigo Hanami (cherry blossom party) hosted by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Its gardens, designed specifically for the event, remain one of Kyoto’s most celebrated cherry blossom spots.
- Shimo Daigo (Lower Daigo): This area includes the five-story pagoda, the oldest wooden structure in Kyoto, along with the main temple buildings and the Reiho-kan Museum, which displays national treasures like Buddhist statues and historical artifacts.
- Kami Daigo (Upper Daigo): Requiring a steep hike, this secluded mountain area is home to ancient temple halls and offers peaceful trails with beautiful autumn foliage.
English Address:
22 Daigohigashiojicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, 601-1325日本
Japanese Address:
〒601-1325 京都市伏見区醍醐東大路町22
Opening Hours
Sanbo-in, Shimo Daigo, and Reiho-kan Museum:
- March to the first Sunday in December: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (last entry 4:00 pm)
- Monday after the first Sunday in December to February: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm (last entry 4:00 pm)
Kami Daigo (Upper Daigo):
- Summer (March 1 – December 1st Sunday): 9:00 am – 3:00 pm entry
- Winter (December 2nd – February 28): 9:00 am – 2:00 pm entry
Admission
Regular Season:
- Combined Ticket (Sanbo-in & Garan):
- Adults: 1,000 yen
- Junior High & High School Students: 700 yen
- Single Area Ticket (Sanbo-in or Garan only):
- Adults: 600 yen
- Junior High & High School Students: 400 yen
- Sanbo-in Goten Special Viewing: 500 yen (Adults & Students)
- Reiho-kan (Special Exhibitions): 500 yen minimum
Spring Season (March 20 – end of Golden Week):
- Combined Ticket (Sanbo-in, Garan, & Reiho-kan Gardens):
- Adults: 1,500 yen
- Junior High & High School Students: 1,000 yen
For detailed admission and seasonal information, refer to the official guide.
