Yasaka Pagoda (八坂の塔), popularly known as Hokanji (法観寺) is a 5-story pagoda that is the last remaining structure of the 6th-century Hokanji temple complex. It is located at 388 Shimizu Yasaka Kamimachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan.
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| Hokanji |
Hokanji details
The Yasaka Pagoda, also known as the Tower of Yasaka, is a 46-meter tall Buddhist pagoda. It is the sole surviving structure of the ancient Hōkan-ji temple complex, which dates back to the 6th century. Today, the pagoda is a popular tourist attraction.
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| Hokanji - Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture |
Historically, the Yasaka Pagoda's foundation dates to the 7th century, with some debate over whether it was established during Prince Shotoku's reign or in 678 CE during the Tenmu period. Over the centuries, the pagoda and its associated temple were repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt, with the current pagoda dating back to 1440.
Hokanji / Yasaka Pagoda
The control of the pagoda was historically contested between the neighboring Gion Shrine and the Kiyomizudera. It was destroyed in 1179 but rebuilt in 1191 with financial support from Minamoto no Yoritomo of the Kawachi Genji Clan. In 1240, the head priest of Kenninji, a nearby Buddhist temple, affiliated the pagoda with Zen Buddhism, a designation it retains today.
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| The view from inside the pagoda |
At present, Hokanji, or Yasaka Pagoda is one of the most photographed and probably one of the most famous pagodas in Kyoto City. A stroll around the Ninenzaka Area won’t be complete if you don’t visit this pagoda.
Team Nicerio visits Hokanji
Although my family and I explored the Ninenzaka Path last December 22, 2019, we missed Hokanji as I failed to include it in our itinerary. My family and I finally got to visit it last January 9, 2023, which was my 434th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. During our visit, we were able to view it from different areas. My favorite was the photo spot near Campton Kiyomizu.
Hokanji Entrance Fee
To enter the pagoda, visitors need to pay 400 yen. Children under 12 are not allowed in the pagoda.
Hokanji Operating Hours
Hokanji is open from 10 AM to 3 PM.
Why visit Hokanji?
You have probably seen photos of Hokanji plenty of times but high chance is that you haven’t seen it from the inside. I highly suggest that you find time to enter and enjoy the view from the pagoda. It’s worth the visit. However, keep in mind that the pagoda is not wheelchair accessible.
Getting to Hokanji
To get to Hokanji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda) from Kyoto Station, follow these steps:
By Bus:
- Kyoto City Bus (No. 100 or No. 206):
- From Kyoto Station Bus Terminal, take bus number 100 (Kyoto City Bus) bound for Gion or bus number 206 (Loop Line).
- Get off at the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop (around 15 minutes).
- From there, it's a short 10-minute walk to Hokanji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda).
By Train and Walk:
- Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (Keihan Line):
- At Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Line subway to Shijo Station.
- Transfer to the Keihan Line at Gion-Shijo Station and head toward Kiyomizu-Gojo Station.
- After arriving at Kiyomizu-Gojo, it's around a 15-minute walk to Hokanji Temple.
Both options provide scenic views as you approach the temple, particularly as you walk through the historic streets.
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