The official name of Yasaka-no-to(八坂の塔) is Hokanji Temple.Currently belongs to the Kenninji school of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism.
It was built by Prince Shotoku after receiving a message from Nyoirin Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) in a dream. It was later destroyed by fire several times, but was rebuilt by Ashikaga Yoshinori in 1440.
The 46-meter-high five-story pagoda (weighted) is the first guest pagoda in Japan.Inside the five-story pagoda, Buddhist statues are arranged toward the four sides, and the central foundation stone from the Asuka period can be seen underneath.
To get to Yasaka Tower from Kyoto Station, take a bus for about 13 minutes and walk about 5 minutes from the bus stop.
opening hours | 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. |
regular closing day | non-scheduled holiday |
entrance fee | 500 yen※No admission for elementary school students and younger |
bus stop | City bus Higashiyama Yasui bus stop |
station | Keihan Gion-Shijo Station※Approx. 10 minutes walk from the nearest station |
parking lot | No parking |