Provided is a honeycomb structure (100) provided with: a tubular honeycomb structure section (4) having an outer wall (3) and porous partitions (1) that compartmentalize/form a plurality of cells (2); and a pair of electrode sections (21) disposed at the side surface (5) of the honeycomb structure section (4). The electrical resistivity of the honeycomb structure section (4) is 1-200 Ocm. Each of the pair of electrode sections (21) is formed in a band shape that extends in the direction of extension of the cells (2). In a cross section perpendicular to the direction of extension of the cells (2), one of the electrodes (21) is disposed at the opposing side sandwiching the center of the honeycomb structure section (4) with respect to the other electrode section (21). The total heat capacity of the pair of electrode sections (21) is 2-150% of the heat capacity of the entire outer wall (3). Provided is a honeycomb structure that is a catalyst support and also functions as a heater by means of the application of voltage, and that further has superior thermal shock resistance.
