Kodaiji Temple - Kyoto

Posted on May 6, 2007 by Adam R.

After spending hours wandering through Kyoto’s CBD we made the decision close to sundown to head for the hills of Kyoto to see Kodaiji Temple and the big Buddha in Kyoto. We arrived in the hills via taxi and starting exploring the area heading towards the multi story pagoda that was increasing in size with every step. Arriving next to the pagoda we were disappointed to find it close and so was the big statue of Buddha. Asking a local what to do they suggesting not missing Kodaiji Temple before it closed so we were suddenly heading fast back down the steep hill and then down a side street, coming to an immense stair case. Arriving at the entrance the place looked amazing with soft spotlights lighting up the main entrance, on paying we were inside and deiced to head to the tea house at the top of the temple.

The teahouse offers great view of Kyoto and is a ceremonial teahouse so don’t expect a drink. Winding down a descending path back to the temples main area we pass through an eerie bamboo forest that is lit up with floodlights, in some areas you can not see the sky and the creaking bamboo is quite unsettling. Arriving at the main temple area shoes are off and we are walking along the exterior balcony of the building looking in rooms as we travel the three quarters around the perimeter. As you round the third corner you come to a vast Japanese Zen garden and this is a main stop point on the tour of the main temple building. The lighting is alternating colors to a sound track of Japanese traditional music and this is another excellent opportunity for photographs or video.

On leaving Kodaiji Temple we went back toward the Big Buddha and Pagoda to find somewhere to eat, wandering by mistake into an area called Gion, which is the GeishaTraditional female entertainers. Trained in such arts as singing, dancing, and playing Japanese traditional musical instruments. area at nighttime. Lucky for us we spotted two Maiko, which are apprentice Geisha then three Geisha in the same night. Gion is a step back in time and make sure you have a spare battery for your camera or video camera reserved just for this area.

You can also get a rickshaw in the hills of Kyoto, these guys have amazing stamina and know all the local secrets so are good to consult and tip for the best information even if you do not want a ride. Taxi is the recommended way to arrive at Kodaiji Temple as there are no trains and walking or cycling from the city would be extremely tiring. To see all Kodaiji Temple area has to offer, budget yourself a good two and a half hours to see everything. I suggest visiting late in the afternoon that way you can see both daylight and night views of Kyoto city.