[2025 Kyoto Attraction] Travel Guide for Pagoda Yasaka (Updated Jul)

Hokanji Temple is a famous tourist attraction in Kyoto. The most popular check-in spot here is the large Yasaka Pagoda, a must-have photo spot for all visitors. The highlight of this area is the well-preserved traditional houses and shops, making it an ideal place to wear a kimono and take photos. It's recommended to visit in the morning when it's less crowded. Additionally, there are many beautiful photo spots around for a leisurely walk. If you visit Kyoto, this place is highly recommended.

#summervacay Hōkan‑ji Temple more popularly known as the Yasaka Pagoda, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, nestled in the historic Higashiyama district between Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu‑dera. Founded in the 7th century, traditionally by Prince Shōtoku, and rebuilt multiple times—its current form dates from 1440, commissioned by Ashikaga Yoshinori. It’s the sole remaining structure of the original temple complex of Hōkan‑ji and stands as an Important Cultural Property . #yasakashrine #kyoto #yasakapagoda #travel

#summervacay One of the highlights of our Kyoto trip was visiting the scenic area around Yasaka Pagoda, which boasts breathtaking views and traditional scenery. The streets are lined with charming shops, cafes, and temples, making it a popular spot for tourists to take photos. We stumbled upon the popular Arabica coffee shop, where we stopped for a relaxing cup of coffee before continuing to explore the area. As we wandered through the charming streets, we got a bit turned around and lost track of which street we were on. It wasn't until we spotted the signboard for Ninenzaka that we realized where we were. Despite the initial confusion, we enjoyed strolling along the picturesque streets, taking in the traditional scenery and snapping photos. The surrounding area was so captivating that we didn't mind the detour. Exploring the street in the evening is a great way to unwind and take in the sights! I highly recommend adding it to your Kyoto itinerary. #kyototravel #yasakapagoda #ninenzaka #arabicacafe #explorekyoto #travel #kyotos

#springitinerary 🛏️ Hotel: Tassel Hotel Sanjo Shirakawa - Spacious, modern hotel right beside a stream (peaceful atmosphere) - Large bathroom with bathtub, pajamas & amenities provided - Right next to 🚇Higashiyama Station - Walking distance to: Convenience stores, Heian Shrine, Gion 🎋 Arashiyama Bamboo Forest 🚇Arashiyama Tram Stop 🕒 Open 24/7 | 🎟️ FREE ⚠️ Come before 8 AM for soft lighting and fewer crowds ⚠️ There are hidden tea houses in the forest that offers matcha with tranquil forest views 🌉 Togetsukyo Bridge - Stunning river & mountain backdrop, especially during cherry blossom season - Stroll along the Katsura River: peaceful, scenic, local playing boats 🍜MUST Try: Matcha dango, tofu & yuba ramen, matcha kakigori with mochi 🏛️ Byodoin Temple 🚇 Keihan Uji Station 🕒 8:45 AM – 5:30 PM | 🎟️ 700 yen - The Phoenix hall is FEATURED on the back of the 10 yen coin ⚠️Walk behind Phoenix Hall for hidden garden paths & quiet spots ⚠️ DON’T MISS the Hoshokan Museum (included in the ticket): Contains Original phoenix statues, bodhisattva carvings, interactive restoration exhibits ⛩️ Fushimi Inari Shrine 🚇 Fushimi Inari Station 🎟️ FREE | Open 24/7 - Famous for Senbon Torii (Thousands of vermilion gates) - Full hike to summit: ~2 hrs roundtrip ⚠️TIP: Hike past the halfway point to avoid crowds - 🍜 MUST Try: Inari Sushi & Kitsune Udon (fox deity’s favorite!) 🐟 Nishiki Market 🚇 Shijo Station - "Kyoto’s Kitchen": Fresh seafood and local snacks - 🍜MUST Try: Sashimi bowls, grilled seafood, matcha treats 🌉 Pontocho Alley - Atmospheric alley beside the Kamogawa River - Restaurants range from yakitori to fine dining - 🎎 Possible Geisha and Crane sightings ⚠️From May–Sept: Enjoy kawayuka dining (outdoor platforms overlooking the river) 🏯 Chion-in Temple 🚇 Higashiyama Station 🎟️ FREE (500 yen for Hojo & Yuzen Gardens) - Famous for Japan’s largest wooden gate (Sanmon Gate, built in 1619) ⚠️Climb the gate to see beautiful lush greeneries 🧱 Nanzen-ji Temple 🚇 Keage Station 🎟️ FREE (500 yen for grounds) - Known for Roman-style aqueduct: Interesting contrast between Meiji-period vs Roman style architecture ⚠️ Don’t miss Keage Incline: Stroll along the old railway tracks with cherry blossoms or autumn foliage above you (depending on season). Famous place for wedding photography! 👘 Kimono Experience Itinerary (Walking Distance): - Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka: Ancient cobbled lanes (since 808 AD) - Yasaka Pagoda: Iconic 5-story pagoda (photo hotspot!) - Kodaiji Temple: ⚠️ Visit the Hidden bamboo grove behind temple (peaceful & NO crowds!) - Kiyomizu-dera: Massive wooden terrace, built with no nails! ⚠️ Stunning views across Kyoto and seasonal foliage - Yasaka Shrine: Over 1350 years old, host of Gion Matsuri #japan #kyoto #japantrip #travel #thingstodo #museums #myitinerary

#japantrip #autumn Tokyo - Osaka - Kyoto - Fuji Fun 8 days in Japan: 🎨 Tech art in Teamlab Tokyo 🍦Crepe and shop in Takeshita St Tokyo 🏔 Stunning view of Mt Fuji in Kawaguchiko 🛝 Fun slide in Tsutenkaku Tower Osaka 🍩 Mochi making in Nara 🦌 Feeding deers in Nara Park ⛩️ Fushimi Inari in Kyoto 🛕Yasaka Pagoda in Kyoto 👘 Walk in kimono in Kyoto 🛕 Temples in Osaka 🏃♂️ Glico man in Dotonbori Osaka 🥩 Wagyu in Osaka Panga 🏯 Visit Osaka Castle 🏰 Fun day in Tokyo Disneyland 🗼And of course, Tokyo Tower