Tō-ji
東寺
Tō-ji, also known as the "East Temple," is a historic Buddhist temple located in Kyoto, Japan. Founded in the early Heian period in 796, it is one of Kyoto's oldest temples and was established by Emperor Kanmu. The temple is renowned for its towering five-story pagoda, which stands at 54.8 meters (180 feet) and is the tallest wooden tower in Japan. Tō-ji is part of the Shingon sect of Buddhism and was associated with the famous monk Kūkai, also known as Kōbō Daishi, who was appointed to oversee the temple in 823. The temple complex includes several significant buildings, such as the Kondo (Main Hall) and the Kodo (Lecture Hall), which house important cultural treasures and statues of Buddhist deities. Tō-ji is also famous for its monthly flea market, known as Kōbō-san, which takes place on the 21st of each month in honor of Kūkai's death anniversary. This vibrant market attracts both locals and tourists, offering a variety of antiques, crafts, food, and other goods.
