The temple burned down four times during the Edo period. After the devastating 1864 fire during the Kinmon incident, rebuilding didn't start until 1879 due to political turmoil from the Meiji Restoration.

Locals affectionately call the two Hongan-ji temples 'Onissan' (Honorable Mr. West) and 'Ohigashisan' (Honorable Mr. East), treating them like friendly neighbors rather than grand religious institutions.

The Goei-dō hall is one of the largest wooden structures in the world, measuring 76 meters long, 58 meters wide, and 38 meters tall. It's supported by 90 massive pillars and was rebuilt in 1895.

Higashi Hongan-ji was founded in the early 17th century.