What other travelers are saying about Hokanji Temple
This temple area is frequented by tourists, as it is the most familiar spot in old Kyoto. I would recommend that you go and take your beautiful pictures, and then spend some time in the temple. It really is wonderful.
If there’s one photo that always comes to mind when thinking of Japan, it’s the view of Yasaka Pagoda at sunset. It feels like this spot features in every tourism ad or guidebook, and now I understand why. The narrow sloping street leading up to the pagoda is lined with old wooden buildings and traditional lanterns, making it feel like a step back in time.
I must have taken well over 100 photos, just trying to capture the perfect angle with the perfect light. As the sun started to set, the crowds really built up, everyone was trying to find their own version of that iconic shot. Be prepared to wait a bit, but it's worth every second. Fortunately the weather was on my side, and the sky lit up in shades of orange and pink just as I hoped, perfect.
There were people in kimonos, photographers, couples, and lots of quiet appreciation for how peaceful and beautiful the moment was. You really do get swept up in it. This is one of those places that truly lives up to the photos, and maybe even surpasses them in person.
Highly recommended at golden hour or just after.
Didn't go inside Yasaka Pagoda but just seeing it from the streets was already a treat. The five-storied pagoda has such a classic Kyoto vibe. Nearby I wandered through the charming slopes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. The best time to appreciate the pagoda is early in the morning around 6 am when there are no crowds and you can really take in the scene peacefully.
Very Beautiful tourist attraction. Out stay was 50mtrs from this place. So had opportunity to visit both during evening and daytime. Uphill walkings will give best views of the shrine. Past that is a thriving local market where u can have some local japanese food and buy gifts
Amazing structure tucked tightly in the back streets of Kyoto. Many cool attractions and shops nearby so you could make a day of walking around through all the alleyway shops and seeing the near by historical landmarks. Many cool things to see.
This pagoda was a very cool structure but that’s all it is you cannot approach the structure and all photos must be taken over the surrounding walls so hard to find a good angle.
I suggest walking the surrounding streets some of the alleyways to the south allow for a good angle to capture the amazement of the pagoda in the backdrop.
Hokanji Temple is renowned for its iconic five-story pagoda, which is a symbol of Kyoto and one of the city's most photographed landmarks.
Hokanji Temple is located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Japan, a historic area known for its preserved streets and traditional architecture.
Hokanji Temple, also known as Yasaka Pagoda, dates back to the 6th century. It serves as an important cultural heritage site reflecting the rich history of Japanese Buddhism.
Yes, visitors can enter the pagoda at certain times, where they can experience a unique view of the surrounding cityscape from inside this historic structure.
Nearby attractions include Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets, and Maruyama Park, all offering visitors a glimpse into Kyoto's historical charm and cultural richness.
