Kyoto Day Guides
by Trip To Japan
How to Spend a Day at Kenninji and Hokanji Temples and Nearby Areas
Kyoto is full of beautiful temples and traditional streets, and a day spent at Kenninji Temple and Hokanji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda) is a perfect way to explore its historic charm. Along the way, you’ll walk through Gion, Higashiyama, and Sannenzaka, discovering hidden alleyways, traditional shops, and peaceful tea houses.
Whether you love temples, want to try Kyoto’s famous food, or just want to experience the city’s traditional side, this guide has everything you need.
Take the Train from Kyoto Station to Gion-Shijo Station
Train Lines: Unfortunately, there is not one train from Kyoto Station to Gion-Shijo. You can either take the Nara Line to Tofukuji Station and change to the Keihan Main Line to Gion-Shijo or you can take the Karasuma Line to Shijo Station and change to the Hankyu-Kyoto Line to Gion-Shijo.
Recommended Stop: Gion-Shijo Station
Alternative Option: There are a number of City Buses that will take you close to Gion Station as well, there are plenty of staff around that can help you find your way if you are confused please ask.
The area around Gion-Shijo Station is the perfect starting point for exploring Higashiyama’s historic temples and streets.
Morning Visit to Kenninji Temple
Walking Distance: 5 minutes from Gion-Shijo Station
Entrance Fee: ¥800
What to See at Kenninji Temple:
✔ Explore one of Kyoto’s oldest Zen temples, founded in 1202.
✔ Admire the famous Twin Dragons ceiling painting inside the Dharma Hall.
✔ Walk through the peaceful Zen rock gardens.
✔ Visit the Fusuma (sliding doors) paintings showcasing traditional Japanese art.
✔ Enjoy a calm atmosphere compared to other temples in the area.
Traveler’s Tip: If you love Zen gardens and quiet spaces, this is a great place to sit and relax before heading to the busier parts of Higashiyama.
Mid-Morning Walk Through Hanamikoji Street
Walking Distance: 5 minutes from Kenninji Temple
What to Do in Hanamikoji:
✔ Walk through the atmospheric old streets with historic wooden buildings.
✔ Visit Gion Corner, where you can pay to see traditional Kyoto performances.
✔ Stop by Ochaya (tea houses) for a glimpse of Kyoto’s geisha culture.
✔ Browse souvenir shops selling Kyoto ceramics, fans, and handmade crafts.
Mid-Morning Coffee Break in Gion
Before heading to your next destination, stop for a coffee break at one of these local cafés:
% Arabica Kyoto – A famous chain café serving high-quality espresso, there are two in the area!
Gion Tsujiri – A must-visit for matcha lovers, serving matcha lattes, ice cream, and parfaits.
Ohana8 (Vegan/Gluten Free Friendly)– Small cafe serving vegan and gluten free options
Visit Hokanji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda)
Walking Distance: 10 minutes from Hanamikoji Street
Entrance Fee: ¥400
Hokanji Temple, also known as Yasaka Pagoda, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks.
What to See at Hokanji Temple:
✔ Admire the five-story pagoda, a symbol of Higashiyama.
✔ Enter the temple and admire the architecure.
✔ Take stunning and iconic photos along the narrow stone streets.
✔ Explore nearby Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets, famous for their old Kyoto charm.
Traveler’s Tip: The best photo spot is at the foot of the pagoda looking up, especially during sunrise or sunset!
Lunch in Higashiyama
After visiting Hokanji Temple, enjoy lunch at one of these great restaurants:
Gion Endo – For those looking for some luxury, try this well-known kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal) restaurant.
Ninenzaka KAMANZA - A cheaper option may be this well known Japanese restaurant serving set meals. It can get busy so expect to wait or book a reservation in advance.
Cafe Vegan Terrace (Vegan Friendly) – Serves plant-based Japanese-style meals and desserts.
Afternoon Walk to Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Walking Distance: 15 minutes from Hokanji Temple
Entrance Fee: ¥400
What to See at Kiyomizu-dera:
✔ Walk on the famous wooden stage, built without nails!
✔ Visit the Otowa Waterfall, where people drink for health, love, or success.
✔ Explore Jishu Shrine, known for its "love fortune" stones.
✔ Take in the amazing view of Kyoto, especially in autumn or cherry blossom season.
Traveler’s Tip: Kiyomizu-dera can get crowded, so visiting in the late afternoon is a great way to avoid peak hours.
Afternoon Coffee Break in Higashiyama
Before heading to dinner, take a break at one of these charming cafés:
Hario Cafe - Walk through a small Japanese garden before enjoying a selection of coffees, teas and cakes.
Koma Gallery Cafe - Gallery cafe serving traditional Japanese sweets in a pleasant atmosphere.
Cafe Malinka (Vegetarian Friendly) - This bright and airy cafe offering tonnes of vegetarian options
Dinner in Gion or Higashiyama
End your day with a delicious dinner before returning to your hotel.
Oryori Menami – A local spot serving Kyoto’s specialty yudofu (tofu hot pot).
Signature Restaurant YASAKA (Vegan Friendly) - For a true taste of luxury, this Japanese restaurant offers incredible food, amazing views, and a great atmosphere. It also has a vegan course menu.
Yagenbori - When in Kyoto, why not eat a delicious kaiseki (course menu) in one of Gionmachi's traditional Japanese building. Well worth the price!
Kyoto WAGYU tonkatsu - For something a little more down to earth, try this delcious tonkastu restaurant, serving both pork and wagyu beef.
ZIRAEL Vegan Restaurant (Vegan Friendly) - Great hole-in-the-wall vegan restaurant with amazing dishes.
Return to Your Hotel
After a day of exploring Kyoto’s temples, streets, and delicious food, head back to your hotel.
Train Option: Take the Keihan Main Line from Gion-Shijo Station to Tofukuji Station and change to the Nara Line back to Kyoto Station.
Alternative: If you’re near Kiyomizu-dera, take a short bus ride to Kyoto Station.
