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Hokan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda)

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Hokan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda)

An iconic Yasaka Pagoda towers over the streets at this famed Kyoto temple in the Higashiyama district.

3.45 9

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Supervised by :  Hokan-ji Temple

Located in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, Hokan-ji is a Rinzai sect (Kennin-ji branch) temple most famous for its five-story pagoda, widely known as Yasaka no Tō. This iconic structure is one of Kyoto’s most recognizable landmarks.
Legend points to the temples founding in 589 by Prince Shōtoku, with the current pagoda rebuilt in 1440 under Ashikaga Yoshinori. Designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

Cultural Property of Japan, the pagoda stands about 46 meters tall, ranking among the tallest wooden five-story pagodas in the country. Its design features a central pillar (shinbashira) that provides seismic resistance, and inside are enshrined the Five Wisdom Buddhas (Dainichi, Shaka, Ashuku, Hōshō, and Amida). Visitors can access the first and second floors, where they can view Buddhist statues and architectural details rarely seen up close. However, since the interior is only open irregularly, checking in advance is recommended.

Situated almost halfway between Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine, and within walking distance of Gion, the pagoda is surrounded by traditional townhouses, making it a perfect spot for sightseeing while soaking up Kyoto’s rich history and culture.

Highlights

  • A Rinzai Zen (Kennin-ji branch) temple in Kyoto’s Higashiyama Ward, better known as Yasaka Pagoda.
  • Said to have been founded in 592, and designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
  • Its five-story pagoda stands about 46 meters tall, making it one of the tallest of its kind in the country.
  • The enshrined Five Wisdom Buddhas, wall paintings, and pillar structure hold great historical and architectural significance.
  • A popular sightseeing spot located near Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine.

Photos

  • A stone-paved approach lined with traditional townhouses and souvenir shops.

    A stone-paved approach lined with traditional townhouses and souvenir shops.

  • The round eaves tiles are engraved with the characters for “Yasaka Tō”.

    The round eaves tiles are engraved with the characters for “Yasaka Tō”.

  • The silhouette of the pagoda against the evening sky is particularly breathtaking.

    The silhouette of the pagoda against the evening sky is particularly breathtaking.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Can I receive a goshuin (temple stamp)?
A

Yes, goshuin are available at the temple reception.

Q

Is parking available?
A

Not available.

Q

Are coin lockers available?
A

Not available.

Reviews

9

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • 至鴻馬
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    This was my third trip to Japan and my second visit to Kyoto. The nearby Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka shopping streets around Kiyomizu-dera have a charming, old-fashioned Japanese atmosphere. They’re must-visit spots in Kyoto that I never get tired of exploring. This time, my friend and I arrived fairly early because we had reserved a rickshaw ride for 10:30 and also wanted to visit the machiya-style Starbucks, which usually has no seats available later in the day. You definitely don’t have to worry about food or shopping here. There are plenty of great places to browse and shop, though I always compare several stores before making a final decision. If you’re interested in planning a visit around Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto, I sincerely recommend coming to Kiyomizu-dera.

  • Gina C
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    Around Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto, you’re almost certain to see Hokan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda) while strolling along the bustling streets. The tall five-story pagoda really stands out among the streets and is one of Kyoto’s classic city views.

    Walking near Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, you can see Yasaka Pagoda in the distance, rising above the traditional machiya townhouses. Together with the historic streets, it really feels like Kyoto. While exploring the area around Kiyomizu-dera, I couldn’t help stopping to take a few photos.

    I didn’t specifically plan to go inside this time, but just seeing Yasaka Pagoda from the street felt very characteristic of Kyoto.

  • BobbyJenny
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    In Kyoto’s Higashiyama area, seeing Hokan-ji Temple’s Yasaka Pagoda really makes you feel like you’re in Kyoto! The five-story pagoda towers above the streets, and together with the surrounding traditional Japanese machiya townhouses, the whole scene has the charm of the ancient capital.

    Walking along the stone-paved streets near Yasaka Pagoda, you’ll find old buildings full of Kyoto character on both sides, and when you look up, you can see the pagoda. No matter which angle you take photos from, it has the feel of a traditional Japanese streetscape.

  • Linda Liao
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    It is said to have been founded by Prince Shōtoku during the Asuka period, while the existing pagoda was rebuilt during the Muromachi period. Standing about 40 meters tall, this five-story pagoda is one of the few ancient pagodas still preserved within Kyoto's city streets. Viewed from Yasaka-dori, the traditional machiya townhouses and the five-story pagoda form a classic Kyoto scene. It is especially charming when the afternoon sunlight falls on the wooden structure; toward evening, as the streetlights gradually come on, it takes on a different kind of tranquil beauty. For many people, this is also one of the streetscapes that feels most distinctly like Kyoto.

  • wendy
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    When visiting Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, you definitely shouldn’t miss this iconic landmark—the Yasaka Pagoda. The historic Hokan-ji Temple stands quietly among the streets of Higashiyama. With the towering Yasaka Pagoda surrounded by streetscapes full of Kyoto charm, walking around here really makes you feel as if you’re in the ancient capital.

    This time, I specifically chose to visit during cherry blossom season, and the cherry blossoms along the way added a touch of romance. Even though it was a weekday, it was still extremely crowded, with a constant stream of tourists. It was really difficult to take a photo without anyone in it. Still, the combination of cherry blossoms and the scenery of the ancient capital made me want to keep pressing the shutter and capture beautiful memories of spring in Kyoto.

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Details

Name in Japanese
法観寺（八坂の塔）
Postal Code
605-0827
Address
388 Yasakakamimachi, Kyoto City, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Telephone
075-551-2417
Closed
Irregular holidays
Business Hours
10:00am - 3:00pm (Note: Visitors under junior high school age are not permitted to enter.)
Admission
400yen
Access
About a 5-minute walk from the city bus stops Higashiyama Yasui or Kiyomizu-michi.
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa