Hōkan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda) (solo trip)

Visiting Hokan-ji Temple was an unforgettable experience. The iconic five-story pagoda is absolutely stunning and creates one of the most beautiful scenes in Kyoto. Walking through the traditional streets leading up to the temple feels like stepping back in time. The atmosphere is calm and inspiring, and it’s a perfect spot for photos, especially around sunset. Even though it’s a well-known landma...

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, ...

Entry is 400 yen and they only accept cash. You can go up to two floors. I think the view at night is even more beautiful, and the evening hours offer great lighting for photos. The surrounding establishments and shops are also lovely; you can easily find interesting and local items.

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 ha...

We came during later in the afternoon and despite it still being crowded on a weekday, the place itself is still a must see. The architectural magnificence of the Japanese pagoda and building amazed us. We left near sunset so the view was amazing. Would highly recommend.