Houkyouin Temple in Arashiyama: Kyoto’s Must-See Autumn Gem

The Houkyouin Temple in Arashiyama is, without a doubt, the most beautiful place you can see in a short time.

Do you have plans to spend the autumn in Kyoto? Suppose you're looking for a genuinely mesmerizing destination that must grace the top of your esteemed travel bucket list. 

In that case, you'll be captivated by the ethereal beauty of the Houkyouin Temple (宝筐院). It's located in the enchanting embrace of the picturesque Arashiyama, Kyoto region.

Arashiyama is undoubtedly a renowned destination that attracts both locals and tourists alike. If you aren't particularly fond of visiting popular landmarks simply because it's not considered trendy to follow the crowd, I admit that I used to be that person as well. 

Let me tell you, some places are simply too breathtaking to pass up on visiting. That said, Arashiyama is quite expansive, so not every inch of it is overflowing with crowds.

Visiting Arashiyama during the autumn season is the absolute best decision. Trust me, you won't regret it. I consciously chose to spend my weekdays unwinding at this particular spot, and to my great fortune, it's conveniently located near my apartment. 

In this blog post, we'll explore the mesmerizing beauty of Houkyouin Temple in Arashiyama. Prepare to be amazed as we embark on a visual journey through this temple's enchanting wonders!

What is Houkyouin Temple in Arashiyama?

Houkyouin Temple is a magnificent structure that graced the world during the 11th-century Heian period. Emperor Shirakawa commissioned this architectural marvel, which left a permanent mark on Japan's rich cultural heritage.

In the captivating literary masterpiece, The Tale of Genji, we are transported to a world where Genji's very own temple takes center stage. This remarkable sanctuary is beautifully situated south of Daikaku-ji amidst the enchanting Saga Moor.

Best Time to Visit Houkyouin Temple During Autumn in Kyoto

I went to Houkyouin Temple on November 25th, and the leaves were stunning at their peak. So, visiting Houkyouin Temple in mid-November would be perfect for seeing the autumn leaves.

Entry Fee

500 Yen

Open Hours

Every day from 9.00 - 16.00

How to Get There

It's about 1 kilometer away from Arashiyama station.

Once you get off at the station, turn right and walk along the street for about 10 minutes. You'll easily spot the gate of Seiryu-ji Temple at the T-junction.

So, just take a left, and you'll spot the entrance to Houkyouin Temple.