Honnō-ji Temple (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Honnō-ji Temple?
A solo traveler can wander the free grounds, view Nobunaga’s tomb, and study artifacts quietly at low cost; central location and light crowds make the temple highly convenient and rewarding.
Positives:
- Easy solo navigation: The compact grounds let you cover everything without a map.
- Free admission: Temple grounds and mausoleum entry are free during open hours.
Challenges:
- Limited English signage: Museum labels are often only in Japanese; use an audio app.
- No on-site lockers: Carry a small bag for essentials since lockers aren’t available.
What is so special about Honnō-ji Temple for solo trip?
- Experience quiet reflection at early morning hours
- Capture clear, crowd-free photos of the vermilion gate
- Explore rare Sengoku-era artifacts in a small museum
- Blend history with a shaded stroll on Teramachi-dori arcade
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: 2-3 hours lets solo travelers explore the temple grounds, Nobunaga’s mausoleum, and the Treasure Museum at a relaxed pace.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Honnō-ji Temple
Morning quiet reflection:
Sit near the main gate and read plaques about Oda Nobunaga.
Tip: Arrive by 7 AM to enjoy the grounds with almost no other visitors.
Photograph the vermilion gate:
Frame shots of the bright gate against the urban backdrop.
Tip: Use a wide-angle lens and visit on weekdays for fewer passersby.
Visit the Daihoden Treasure Museum:
View original swords, folding screens, and Nobunaga’s tea bowl.
Tip: Buy your ¥700 ticket at the 9 AM opening to avoid the short midday line.
Stroll Teramachi-dori arcade:
Walk the covered shopping street after the temple closes.
Tip: Head there after 5 PM for quieter aisles and a coffee break.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Temple grounds | JPY 0 |
| Daihoden Treasure Museum | JPY 700 |
| Coffee on Teramachi-dori | JPY 500 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 1,200 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Honnō-ji Temple?
In spring (late March–early April), arrive by 7 AM to catch cherry blossoms lining Teramachi-dori before the crowds.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Honnō-ji Temple
- Visit off-peak hours: Go between 6–9 AM or after 4 PM to avoid day-tour groups.
- Pre-download audio guide: Install an English Sengoku-period guide app to understand exhibits.
- Combine nearby stops: After Honno-ji, walk to Nishiki Market or Nijo Castle to extend your tour.
Map of Honnō-ji Temple
Address: 522 Shimohonnōjimaechō, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto, 604-8091, Japan
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Reviews of Honnō-ji Temple
Robert Walker
Beautiful temple, and the Oda Nobunaga exhibition was great
davazno1
Good place to visit , Oda Nobunaga's mausoleum nearby , no entrance fee , a nice nearby small museum (800 yen entrance fee) , there were no crowds , visited on 13 apr 2025
Sophia W
Noticed that Special Temple by hearing a monk’s chanting around 4:35pm Easter Sunday. Suddenly I found that’s the Mausoleum of Oda Nobunaga, who was regarded as the first "Great Unifier of Japan“🇯🇵 He was attacked then dead in that Temple, which remarked a legacy in Japanese History! Full of surprises in Kyoto, where’s an ancient Capital in Japan.
Ambiguous 64
A special part of Japanese history. While we couldn't enter the temple because they had a service on, we enjoyed the outside, and the museum next door.
Nikita Nymeros
A quite bigger temple and with a special edition Goshuin (only printed though). Very beautiful design ane worth the 700 yen.
About Honnō-ji Temple
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 75-231-5335See available options
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