To-ji　(東寺)

To-ji literally means "Eastern Temple", and was founded at the beginning of the Heian Period. After Emperor Kammu moved the capital to Heian, he decided that to keep Buddhism from having the influence on the Emperor that it did in Nara, there would only be two Buddhist temples built in Heian. These were To-ji and Sai-ji (Western Temple). Together, they stood on each side of the gate to the city, and served to protect the capital. Sai-ji no longer stands today, but To-ji features the tallest wooden building in Japan; the pagoda is nearly 55 meters tall. It remains an important symbol of Kyoto.

This Buddhist temple is often associated with Kobo Daishi, the well-known Buddhist priest who was put in charge of To-ji in 823 by the order of Emperor Saga.

A famous flea market is held on the grounds of To-ji on the 21^st of each month, in honour of Kobo Daishi who, died on March 21^st. This market is popularly called Kobo-san, and it features a variety of art, clothes, antiques, food, and typical second-hand goods. The last market of the year is held on December 21^st, and is the largest of the markets.