The origin of Nishi Honganji dates back to the founding of the Jodo Shinshu sect by Shinran Shonin. Shinran further deepened the doctrine of the Jodo sect and spread the teaching that all people are reborn in the Pure Land. Nishi Honganji was established as a place to inherit the teachings.


The buildings of Nishi Honganji are stately and magnificent, and the Amida-do Hall and Miedo Hall are especially known as highlights. Even in the cityscape of Kyoto, its majestic appearance is overwhelming, and it is a place visited by many tourists and believers. Karamon is designated as a national treasure.


Shinran faced a lot of persecution while spreading the Jodo Shinshu teachings. However, his indomitable belief and teaching that all people can be saved equally won the hearts of many people and has been passed down to this day. Nishi Hongwanji is revered by many believers and researchers as a center for preserving the teachings of Shinran Shonin.

Nishi Honganji is positioned as a center of Japanese Buddhism as a place where the teachings of Shinran Shonin are passed down to the present day. The combination of its beautiful architecture and the profound teachings of Shinran Shonin makes it a must-see on any visit to Kyoto.