Kyoto Walk – Hōkan-ji Temple, Ninenzaka Street, Sannenzaka Street, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Japan
This walk explores the streets and temples on the southeast side of Kyoto.
Hōkan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda): Japan, 〒605-0862 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, 清水八坂上町388
Ninenzaka Path: Japan, 〒605-0826 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Masuyacho, 清水2丁目
Sannenzaka Slope: 2 Chome-211 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
Kiyomizu-dera Temple: 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
Date Picture Taken: October, 2024
The walk began with a visit to Hokan-ji Temple.
Hokanji Temple, also known as Yasaka Pagoda, is a historic five-story pagoda located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. It is a symbol of the area, with its striking architecture often appearing in photos of traditional Kyoto streets.
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Originally built in the Asuka period, the pagoda has been reconstructed several times, with the current structure dating back to the 15th century. Visitors often admire the surrounding narrow streets lined with traditional wooden houses, offering a quintessential Kyoto experience.
A small shrine next to Yasaka Pagoda
Walked past the pagoda to Ninenzaka street
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I am on Sannen-zaka Path
On the left side of this street is Ninenzaka Path. I turned left here to explore Ninenzaka Path, but I will return here to continue moving forward to Sannenzaka Slope
Ninenzaka Path. Ninenzaka is a charming, historic pedestrian path in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. Lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, shops, and teahouses, the stone-paved slope exudes old-world charm and offers visitors a glimpse into Kyoto’s past. This picturesque path connects to other notable areas, such as Sannenzaka and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, making it a popular route for sightseeing. Along the way, you’ll find unique souvenir shops, local delicacies, and cozy cafés, perfect for enjoying the serene atmosphere of traditional Kyoto.
I turned around from this path and went back toward the stairs.
I returned to the stairs and turned left at the top.
This is Sannen-Zaka Path again
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Sannen-Zaka Slope. Sannenzaka, also known as Sannenzaka Slope, is a historic and scenic stone-paved path in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. This charming pedestrian street is lined with traditional wooden buildings that house shops, teahouses, and restaurants, offering visitors a glimpse into the atmosphere of old Kyoto. The slope is closely connected to nearby attractions like Ninenzaka and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, making it a popular spot for leisurely strolls. According to local legend, tripping on Sannenzaka is said to bring bad luck, adding a touch of folklore to its appeal.
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Continued to walk past the Sannen-Zaka Slope toward Kiyomizu-dera temple.
A road side store selling dishes
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Kiyomizu-dera Temple
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Kiyomizu-Dera, officially known as Otowa-san Kiyomizu-Dera, is one of Kyoto’s most celebrated temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in 778, it is dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The temple is renowned for its impressive wooden stage, which juts out from the main hall and offers views of the surrounding cherry and maple trees, which are particularly beautiful during spring and autumn.
Walking past the Pagoda
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A view of the structures below; I intend to head down later for a closer look.
At that moment, my plan was to head toward the red buildings shown in the picture below.
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The stairs leading to the structures below were located here. I came back to this spot after exploring the red buildings on the other side.
The red building on the other side
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Beyond the red building was a narrow road leading further ahead. I decided to turn back here and return to the stairs that led to the ground level.
Came back to the stairs
The temple’s name, which means “Pure Water Temple,” derives from the Otowa Waterfall located within its grounds. Visitors can drink from three separate streams, each said to grant a specific blessing: longevity, academic success, or a fortunate love life.
I left the temple and went on the Sannenzaka Path again
Came back to the Kyoto city center
