Hōkan-ji, Kinki Kansai Travel Guide

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Discover the iconic Yasaka Pagoda at Hōkan-ji Temple, a symbol of Kyoto's ancient history and architectural beauty in the heart of Higashiyama.

Hōkan-ji Temple, often called Yasaka Pagoda, is a prominent five-story pagoda in Kyoto's Higashiyama district. Dating back to the 6th century, the current pagoda was rebuilt in 1440 and stands as a recognizable symbol of Kyoto. Visitors can climb the pagoda for panoramic views of the city.

A brief summary to Hōkan-ji

清水八坂上町388, Kyoto, 清水八坂上町 Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, JP
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Saturday 10 am-3 pm
Sunday 10 am-3 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hōkan-ji.

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture stunning photos of the pagoda in the soft morning light.
Check for special openings to access the interior of the pagoda and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto.
Explore the surrounding Higashiyama district with its charming streets, traditional shops, and tea houses.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine for a full day of sightseeing.

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Getting There

Walking

Hōkan-ji Temple is located in the heart of Kyoto's Higashiyama district, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions. From Kiyomizu-dera Temple, walk east along the main street, then turn north onto a smaller lane leading towards the pagoda. From Yasaka Shrine, walk south through the Gion district, following signs for Kiyomizu-dera; the pagoda will come into view. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

The nearest bus stops to Hōkan-ji Temple are Kiyomizu-michi and Higashiyama-Yasui. From Kyoto Station, take bus number 100 or 206 to Kiyomizu-michi. Alternatively, take bus number 80, 85, 87, 88, or 89 to Higashiyama-Yasui. From either stop, it's a short 5-minute walk to the temple. The fare within the flat fare area is ¥230 for adults and ¥120 for children. A Kyoto City Subway and Bus One-Day Pass costs ¥1,100 for adults.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Kyoto and can take you directly to Hōkan-ji Temple. From Kyoto Station, a taxi ride to the temple takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The base fare for a taxi in Kyoto is ¥490 for the first 1.5 km, with additional charges of ¥320 per kilometer thereafter. A 5km ride in Kyoto costs about ¥2090.

Discover more about Hōkan-ji

Hōkan-ji Temple, also known as Yasaka Pagoda, is an iconic symbol of Kyoto, gracing the city's Higashiyama district. This five-story pagoda, standing at 46 meters (151 feet), is a testament to Japan's rich architectural and cultural heritage.Tradition holds that Prince Shōtoku founded the temple in the 7th century after envisioning the Wish-fulfilling Wheel Avalokitesvara (Kannon). The pagoda we see today was reconstructed in 1440, preserving the original heart pillar foundation stone. Its unique architectural style features balustrades only on the top tier, a distinctive characteristic among Japanese pagodas.Inside, visitors can marvel at the tower's architecture, statues, and fading paintings. The pagoda is built around a massive wooden shaft made from a single zelkova tree, which helps the tower maintain its balance during earthquakes. Climbing the steep stairs to the top offers a glimpse of modern Kyoto through small windows.Hōkan-ji Temple is not only an architectural wonder but also a living part of Kyoto's history and culture. It stands amidst the charming cobblestone streets of Higashiyama, near Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine. The temple is central to the Gion Matsuri festival and remains a vibrant place of worship.