To-Ji Pagoda
By: Noah DeMar
Historical significance:
To-Ji pagoda is a five story tall Buddhist temple.
At nearly 180 feet tall, To-Ji is the tallest pagoda in Japan.
It was constructed in 796 AD, as both a religious and a defensive structure.
To-Ji's sister temple burned down, and To-Ji itself has sustained fire damage in the past.
To-ji has come to represent Kyoto, and is a recognized world heritage site.
Temple Grounds
Over the years, many building have been added to the temple grounds such as Kodo Hall (Left), a museum housing several ancient artifacts, and on select dates, a flea market! (Right)
Disaster proof
Unique architectural elements make To-Ji extremely resistant to earthquakes. (1:35)
To-Ji, much like a modern skyscraper, can flex and warp to negate the destructive effects of an earthquake.
Location
To-Ji Temple is easy to find as its silhouette towers high above Kyoto. It can be viewed from the shinkansen (bullet train), and is only a short walk away from the train station.