Yasaka Pagoda is one of Kyoto’s most recognizable landmarks, rising above the traditional streets near the approach to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. This elegant five-story pagoda features a traditional Japanese architectural style and a tiled roof, standing approximately 46 meters tall.
The pagoda stands within the grounds of Hokan-ji Temple. Because the temple grounds are relatively small and the pagoda is its most prominent structure, the temple itself is commonly known as Yasaka Pagoda.
According to tradition, the original five-story pagoda was founded by Prince Shotoku in 592. Although the historical accuracy of this account is uncertain, Hokan-ji is believed to be an ancient temple that existed before the capital was moved to Heian-kyo, present-day Kyoto, in 794.
The pagoda has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout its history:
The current pagoda is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, preserving an important part of Kyoto’s architectural and religious heritage.
One of Yasaka Pagoda’s special attractions is that visitors can sometimes enter the interior of this protected historic structure. It is noted as a rare example of a five-story pagoda designated an Important Cultural Property whose interior is open to the public.
When access is available, visitors can climb the steep staircase to the second story. From the windows, they can enjoy views over Kyoto’s traditional streets and surrounding townscape.
The first floor houses a group of Buddhist statues known as the Five Wisdom Buddhas, with Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana) at the center. Visitors may also see Buddhist images, wall paintings, foundation stones, and the central pillar that supports the pagoda’s structure.
The staircase inside the pagoda is steep, so access requires caution. For safety reasons, children under junior high school age are not permitted to enter.
Interior visits are offered irregularly, depending on the availability of temple personnel. Open days are more common on weekends during busy tourist seasons, but access is not guaranteed. Visitors who wish to enter the pagoda should contact the temple in advance to confirm whether it will be open.
From nearby Yasaka-dori Street, visitors can look into the temple grounds and appreciate the pagoda alongside several other religious and cultural structures.
Yakushi-do Hall houses statues of Yakushi Nyorai (the Buddha of Medicine), Nikko Bosatsu (Sunlight Bodhisattva), Gakko Bosatsu (Moonlight Bodhisattva), Yumemi Jizo Bosatsu, and the Twelve Divine Generals, who traditionally protect the Buddha of Medicine.
Taishi-do Hall contains statues of Prince Shotoku depicted at the ages of three and sixteen, honoring the prince associated with the temple’s traditional founding story.
The temple grounds also include Yasaka Inari Shrine and Chotaku-an, a traditional tea room. Together, these features offer visitors a glimpse into the religious traditions and cultural atmosphere of historic Kyoto.
10:00-16:00
Open to the public irregularly (only on days convenient for temple officials)
500 yen for junior high school students and older
Children under junior high school age are not allowed to enter the temple.
5 min. walk from Higashiyama Yasui or Kiyomizu-michi bus stop by city bus.