Hokongoin

Hokongoin（法金剛院） is a Ritsu sect temple belonging to Toshodaiji Temple.The temple was originally named Narabigaoka-dera around 830.In 1130, Taikenmonin (mother of Emperor Sutoku and Emperor Go-Shirakawa) rebuilt the temple as Hokkongoin.

The pond garden is home to Japan’s oldest man-made waterfall, Aome Falls, which is designated as a special place of scenic beauty.

Hokongoin, also known as “Lotus Temple,” is usually at its best from early July to early August.Visitors can enjoy weeping cherry blossoms “Taikenmonin-zakura” in spring, irises (best viewing time: early to mid June) and hydrangeas (best viewing time: mid June to early July) in summer, and autumn leaves (best viewing time: mid to late November) in fall.

Access from Kyoto Station to Hokongoin takes about 10 minutes by JR train.
※Please check the official website day of visitation.