Hogonin Temple

Hogonin Temple is a sub-temple of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji and is best known for its magnificent strolling garden, Shishiku-no-Niwa. Because the temple is usually open only during special seasonal exhibitions, it is considered one of Arashiyama’s hidden treasures.

Visitors come to admire its tranquil atmosphere, elegant landscaping, and spectacular maple leaves in autumn. During spring, fresh green maples create an equally beautiful and peaceful setting.

History

Hogonin Temple was founded in 1461 as one of the sub-temples of Tenryu-ji under the patronage of Hosokawa Yoriyuki, an influential statesman of the Muromachi Period.

Although the temple was destroyed during the Onin War, it was later rebuilt. Today, it is especially admired for its carefully designed strolling garden, which harmonizes beautifully with the natural landscape of Arashiyama.

Highlights

Shishiku-no-Niwa Garden

The temple’s famous strolling garden combines rocks, moss, maple trees, and seasonal plants into one of Kyoto’s finest landscape gardens.

Autumn Foliage

Hogonin is renowned for its brilliant autumn colors. Evening illumination events during the autumn season create an especially magical atmosphere.

Fresh Green Maples

Spring brings vibrant green maple leaves that offer a completely different but equally beautiful experience.

Main Hall

The elegant main hall is occasionally opened during seasonal exhibitions, allowing visitors to appreciate traditional temple architecture and artwork.

Peaceful Temple Grounds

Despite being next to Tenryu-ji, Hogonin remains remarkably quiet, providing a relaxing contrast to Arashiyama’s busiest attractions.

Visit Tips

Since Hogonin is generally open only during special spring and autumn exhibitions, be sure to check the opening schedule before visiting.

The temple is just a short walk from Tenryu-ji, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Okochi Sanso Garden, and Togetsukyo Bridge, making it easy to include in an Arashiyama sightseeing itinerary.