Kyoto Day Guides
by Trip To Japan
How to Spend a Day at Kenninji and Hokanji Temples and Nearby Areas
Kyoto is full of beautiful temples and traditional streets, and a day spent at Kenninji Temple and Hokanji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda) is a perfect way to explore its historic charm. Along the way, you’ll walk through Gion, Higashiyama, and Sannenzaka, discovering hidden alleyways, traditional shops, and peaceful tea houses.
Whether you love temples, want to try Kyoto’s famous food, or just want to experience the city’s traditional side, this guide has everything you need.
Take a Train from Kyoto Station to Gion-Shijo Station
Train Line: Keihan Main Line
Recommended Stop: Gion-Shijo Station
Alternative Option: If coming from a different area, take the Hankyu Line to Kawaramachi Station.
Start your day by heading to Kyoto Station and taking the Keihan Main Line to Gion-Shijo Station. This area is the perfect starting point for exploring Higashiyama’s historic temples and streets.
Morning Visit to Kenninji Temple
Walking Distance: 5 minutes from Gion-Shijo Station
Entrance Fee: ¥500
What to See at Kenninji Temple:
✔ Explore one of Kyoto’s oldest Zen temples, founded in 1202.
✔ Admire the famous Twin Dragons ceiling painting inside the Dharma Hall.
✔ Walk through the peaceful Zen rock gardens.
✔ Visit the Fusuma (sliding doors) paintings showcasing traditional Japanese art.
✔ Enjoy the calm and less crowded atmosphere compared to other temples in the area.
Traveler’s Tip: If you love Zen gardens and quiet spaces, this is a great place to sit and relax before heading to the busier parts of Higashiyama.
Mid-Morning Walk Through Hanamikoji Street
Walking Distance: 5 minutes from Kenninji Temple
Hanamikoji Street is one of Kyoto’s most beautiful traditional streets, lined with wooden machiya (tea houses) and small shops. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a maiko (apprentice geisha) walking to work.
What to Do in Hanamikoji:
✔ Walk through the atmospheric old streets with historic wooden buildings.
✔ Visit Gion Corner, where you can see traditional Kyoto performances.
✔ Stop by Ochaya (tea houses) for a glimpse of Kyoto’s geisha culture.
✔ Browse souvenir shops selling Kyoto ceramics, fans, and handmade crafts.
Mid-Morning Coffee Break in Gion
Before heading to your next destination, stop for a coffee break at one of these local cafés:
% Arabica Kyoto – A famous café serving high-quality espresso with great river views.
Gion Tsujiri – A must-visit for matcha lovers, serving matcha lattes and parfaits.
Yojiya Café – A cozy café known for its latte art featuring a geisha face.
Veg Out (Vegan) – A riverside café with plant-based pastries and organic coffee.
Visit Hokanji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda)
Walking Distance: 10 minutes from Hanamikoji Street
Entrance Fee: ¥500
Hokanji Temple, also known as Yasaka Pagoda, is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks.
What to See at Hokanji Temple:
✔ Admire the five-story pagoda, a symbol of Higashiyama.
✔ Climb inside the pagoda for a unique city view (if open to visitors).
✔ Take stunning photos along the narrow stone streets.
✔ Explore nearby Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka streets, famous for their old Kyoto charm.
Traveler’s Tip: The best photo spot is at the foot of the pagoda looking up, especially during sunrise or sunset!
Lunch in Higashiyama
After visiting Hokanji Temple, enjoy lunch at one of these great restaurants:
Omen Kodaiji – Famous for its handmade udon noodles and tempura.
Gion Endo – A well-known kaiseki (traditional multi-course meal) restaurant.
Suzuya (Casual & Affordable) – A local spot serving delicious Kyoto-style curry rice.
Mumokuteki Café (Vegan/Vegetarian) – Serves plant-based Kyoto-style meals and desserts.
Afternoon Walk to Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Walking Distance: 15 minutes from Hokanji Temple
Entrance Fee: ¥400
What to See at Kiyomizu-dera:
✔ Walk on the famous wooden stage, built without nails!
✔ Visit the Otowa Waterfall, where people drink for health, love, or success.
✔ Explore Jishu Shrine, known for its "love fortune" stones.
✔ Take in the amazing view of Kyoto, especially in autumn or cherry blossom season.
Traveler’s Tip: Kiyomizu-dera can get crowded, so visiting in the late afternoon is a great way to avoid peak hours.
Afternoon Coffee Break in Higashiyama
Before heading to dinner, take a break at one of these charming cafés:
Saryo Tsujiri – A traditional tea house with matcha sweets.
Rakusho – A quiet spot for enjoying Kyoto-style mochi and green tea.
Choice Café (Vegan) – A plant-based café offering organic cakes and coffee.
Dinner in Gion or Higashiyama
End your day with a delicious dinner before returning to your hotel.
Izuu – A famous restaurant serving Kyoto-style pressed sushi.
Menami – A local spot serving Kyoto’s specialty yudofu (tofu hot pot).
Ippodo Tea House – Great for a light meal with premium Japanese tea.
Ain Soph Journey (Vegan) – A plant-based restaurant serving vegan tempura and curry.
Return to Your Hotel
After a day of exploring Kyoto’s temples, streets, and delicious food, head back to your hotel.
Train Option: Take the Keihan Line from Gion-Shijo Station back to Kyoto Station.
Alternative: If you’re near Kiyomizu-dera, take a short bus ride to Kyoto Station.
Kyoto Day Guides
