The five-story pagoda that symbolizes the Kyoto cityscape, commonly known as Yasaka Pagoda, captivates many tourists with its overwhelming presence. This article provides a comprehensive guide to deeply understand the pagoda, covering everything from its official name, Hokan-ji Temple, to the best photo spots, tips for its infrequent interior viewing, and how to enjoy the surrounding area. Reading this guide will surely make your visit to Yasaka Pagoda even more memorable.
What Is Yasaka Pagoda? — A Symbol of the Kyoto Streetscape
Soaring majestically in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district is a beautiful five-story pagoda. This is the famous Yasaka Pagoda (Hokan-ji Temple), an iconic symbol of Kyoto. While most people refer to it by its popular name, it is actually a part of a temple called Hokan-ji. Its view from the atmospheric streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka is so picturesque that it’s known as one of the top photo spots in Kyoto, where countless people stop to take pictures. The pagoda isn’t just an old structure; it’s a living part of modern Kyoto’s culture and tourism. Let’s delve into the deep history and architectural secrets of this tower that continues to charm so many.
The Charm of Its History and Architecture: A Five-Story Pagoda That Transcends Time
A Tale of Foundation and Reconstruction
The history of Yasaka Pagoda dates back some 1,400 years. Legend says Prince Shotoku founded the pagoda on this site, giving it a profoundly ancient history. Despite being damaged by wars and fires on multiple occasions, it was rebuilt each time. The current pagoda was rebuilt in the Muromachi period by Ashikaga Yoshinori and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Surviving the turbulent waves of history, the pagoda stands today as a testament to Kyoto’s long and rich past.
A National Important Cultural Property and Interior Viewing
Beyond its exterior beauty, one of the most significant charms of Yasaka Pagoda is that its interior can be viewed irregularly. While many pagodas in Japan do not allow visitors inside, you can enter the first floor of Yasaka Pagoda. Inside, you’ll find statues of the Five Wisdom Buddhas and an impressive central pillar (shinbashira) that soars through the center of the tower. There are also stairs that allow you to go up to the second floor, where a different perspective of the Kyoto cityscape awaits you through its windows. This rare and valuable experience allows you to feel the deep history and architectural beauty of the pagoda up close. So, how can you best capture this special space in photos?
The Best Photo Spots for Photography Lovers
The Classic Angle on Yasaka-dori Street
The most famous photo spot for capturing Yasaka Pagoda is from Yasaka-dori Street. The composition of the pagoda rising above the stone-paved slope is a classic for Kyoto sightseeing photos. Atmospheric townhouses line both sides of the street, and in the early morning or evening, when there are fewer people, you can have this breathtaking view all to yourself. It’s considered the most “Instagrammable” spot for many photographers and tourists.
Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka with Traditional Townhouses
Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are also essential spots for photographing the pagoda. Here, you can capture the tower along with the stone steps, quaint old townhouses, souvenir shops, and tea houses. When you look back while walking the slopes, the view of the pagoda emerging from beyond the rooftops looks like a scene from a period drama. Combining the traditional Kyoto cityscape with Yasaka Pagoda creates a more emotional and profound photo.
The Colorful “Kukuri-saru” of Yasaka Koshindo
Just a short walk from Yasaka Pagoda, Yasaka Koshindo Temple is famous for its colorful “kukuri-saru” (tied-up monkeys). At this spot, you can take a unique photo of the brightly colored monkeys with the pagoda in the background. Many travelers write their wishes on these monkeys and hang them here. The combination of the pop and cute atmosphere with the historic pagoda has made this spot a huge hit on social media. It’s a special photo that will add a unique memory to your Kyoto trip.
After you’ve enjoyed taking photos, let’s explore the area around Yasaka Pagoda.
Yasaka Pagoda Visitor’s Guide: Access and Nearby Attractions
Access and Visiting Information
To get to Yasaka Pagoda, it’s convenient to take a city bus from Kyoto Station. Take bus number 100 or 206, get off at the “Kiyomizu-michi” bus stop, and walk for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can walk from the Keihan Railway’s “Gion-Shijo Station” or “Kiyomizu-Gojo Station.” The admission fee is 400 yen, and the opening hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (last entry at 3:40 p.m.). However, since the temple’s opening is irregular, it’s highly recommended to check their official website or social media for the latest information before your visit.
Higashiyama Walking Course
Yasaka Pagoda is at the heart of the Higashiyama district, where many famous spots like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine are located. If you want to efficiently enjoy Kyoto, a walking course centered on the pagoda is highly recommended. For example, you can start at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, pass through the atmospheric Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, visit the pagoda, stop by the popular Yasaka Koshindo, and finally make your way to Yasaka Shrine and the Gion area. This route allows you to experience the concentrated charm of Kyoto.
