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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hokanji Temple is a small temple nestled in the historic streets of Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, and is particularly famous for the five-story pagoda (commonly known as Yasaka Tower) on its grounds. The tower's construction is ancient, and legend has it dating back to the Asuka to Nara periods. After being burned down and rebuilt multiple times, it is said to have taken on its current appearance around the Muromachi period. The sight of the tall vermilion five-story pagoda blending in with the old townhouses and cobblestone slopes is a popular photo spot both in Japan and abroad, symbolizing the Higashiyama area.
Highlights
- Five-story Pagoda (Yasaka Pagoda): A striking silhouette among the streets of Higashiyama. The exterior is picturesque from close up to far away, making it a popular photo spot.
- The surrounding old townscape: You can enjoy the scenery of walking paths leading to Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, cobblestone streets, and rows of souvenir shops in the style of old houses.
- Seasonal charm: The cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season in autumn are particularly beautiful and attract many tourists (but they can get quite crowded).
- Night view/early morning view: There are fewer tourists in the early morning, making it easier to take pictures of the quiet atmosphere. At night, the surrounding lights may softly illuminate the tower, but the lighting of the tower itself may vary from day to day.
- Combined sightseeing with nearby temples and shrines: A popular walking route is one that combines Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park, and Hokan-ji Temple.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Keihan Railway: About 15-20 minutes walk from Gion-Shijo Station (go north and then west along the riverside road).
- Keihan Railway: About a 10-15 minute walk from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (route uphill and up stone-paved streets).
- Kyoto City Bus: From Kyoto Station, take city bus lines 100 and 206 and get off at Kiyomizu-michi or Gion, then walk for about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Estimated travel time from Kyoto Station: Approximately 20-30 minutes by bus plus walking (depending on traffic).
- By car: The surrounding roads are narrow and parking is limited, so we recommend using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Viewing only Hokanji Temple (five-story pagoda) and taking photos: Approximately 30 minutes.
- A stroll around Hokanji Temple and the surrounding Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka slopes: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.
- Full-course tour that also visits surrounding spots such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine: Half a day to one day.
Nearby spots
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple (approximately 10-20 minutes walk) — A major tourist attraction in Higashiyama.
- Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka (a short walk) — Walking paths lined with souvenir shops and teahouses.
- Yasaka Shrine/Gion (10-15 minute walk) — A place where you can experience festivals and Gion culture.
- Maruyama Park, Kodaiji Temple, and Chion-in Temple (walking distance) - Many tranquil gardens and historic buildings.
- Ishibei-koji (Stone Wall Alley) — A charming little path that's perfect for photos.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets particularly crowded in spring (cherry blossoms), autumn (autumn leaves), during consecutive holidays, and in the evenings. Please be considerate when taking photos and do not obstruct pedestrians.
- Narrow alleys and consideration for local residents: There are many residential roads in the surrounding area, so please do not block the roads with tourists. Please refrain from shouting or taking photos on the street for long periods of time.
- Photography etiquette: The use of tripods and commercial photography may be restricted depending on the location. When taking photos in front of a shop, please be considerate of the store and passersby.
- Visiting hours and opening/closing times: Temples and surrounding facilities have limited visiting hours. Many are closed at night, so be sure to check in advance.
- Weather and clothing: As there are many slopes and cobblestone streets, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Be careful as it can be slippery in rainy weather.
- Garbage and Smoking: Please be considerate of those around you by taking your trash home with you in public places and only smoking in designated areas.
The five-story pagoda at Hokanji Temple is a symbol of the old landscape of Higashiyama. Early mornings and weekday mornings are relatively quiet, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely stroll and take photos, so we recommend visiting with plenty of time to spare.
