日本最古の三重塔
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Hokki-ji Temple

4.1
·633 reviews·Ikaruga, Japan

Discover Japan's oldest three-story pagoda, a serene National Treasure steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Cosmos bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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日本最古の三重塔

Hokki-ji Temple

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Cosmos bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Japan's oldest three-story pagoda, a serene National Treasure steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty.

4.1
(633 reviews)

"This temple has the oldest 3 storied pagoda in Japan. The pagoda is 1300 years old."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photography Allowed!

Photography is now permitted within the temple grounds, so bring your camera! :camerawithflash:

🚶 Walk from Horyuji

Enjoy a scenic walk from Horyuji Temple to Hokki-ji, taking in the local scenery. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.1 · 633 reviews

Type

Place of Worship

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Three-Story Pagoda

The Ancient Three-Story Pagoda

Temple Grounds

Marvel at Japan's oldest three-story pagoda, a 1300-year-old National Treasure.

Prince Shotoku's Legacy

Prince Shotoku's Legacy

Temple Grounds

Explore the grounds where Prince Shotoku passed away, a place steeped in history.

Cosmos Fields

Cosmos Fields

Surrounding Temple

Enjoy vibrant cosmos fields in autumn, offering beautiful photo opportunities.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Hokki-ji

Hokki-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is best visited during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) to avoid the summer heat and winter chill. Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to experience its serene atmosphere and capture stunning pagoda photos without the crowds. Consider visiting during sunset for a truly magical view.

Navigating to Hokki-ji

Hokki-ji Temple is located in Ikaruga Town, Nara Prefecture. While it's a bit off the beaten path, it's accessible via public transport. From JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, take a bus towards Horyuji Temple, and then transfer to a local bus or enjoy a pleasant walk to Hokki-ji. Allow ample travel time to fully appreciate the journey.

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Cosmos bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour pagoda views
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring afternoons
Why
Pleasant weather, blooming flora
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Arashiyama bamboo forest alternative near Tokyo for your next japan trip! 📍 Hokokuji Temple 報国寺 #japan #travel #kamakura
@trystane
65.3K likes • 975.8K views

📸 Photography Allowed!

Photography is now permitted within the temple grounds, so bring your camera! :camerawithflash:

🚶 Walk from Horyuji

Enjoy a scenic walk from Horyuji Temple to Hokki-ji, taking in the local scenery. :athletic_shoe:

L’une de mes plus belles découvertes et peut être que vous n’en aviez pas entendu parler ! 🍵💛🎋 📍Hokokuji Temple - Kamakura 🌸
@justinaccessible
4.7K likes • 53.6K views
Para aprovechar al máximo tu visita a Kamakura, te recomiendo este itinerario: comienza visitando el hermoso bosque de bambú del templo Hōkoku-ji. Desde allí, puedes dirigirte al Templo Sugimoto-dera mientras te encaminas hacia el imponente santuario Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. Una vez lo hayas visitado, dirígete al templo Kenchō-ji. A continuación, date un paseo por la animada calle comercial Komachi-...
@planetaandrei
2.1K likes • 36.2K views

🎟️ Admission Tickets

There are different admission tickets and pamphlets available for purchase. :admission_tickets:

🌅 Sunset Views

Catch the magical sunset behind the pagoda for an unforgettable experience. :sunriseovermountains:

One of the must visit gardens in Kamakura Japan - Hokokuji Bamboo Forest #japan #kamakura #forest #temple #sightseeing #bamboo #bambooforest
@sovereigndoge
1K likes • 31.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photography Allowed!

Photography is now permitted within the temple grounds, so bring your camera! :camerawithflash:

🚶 Walk from Horyuji

Enjoy a scenic walk from Horyuji Temple to Hokki-ji, taking in the local scenery. :athletic_shoe:

🎟️ Admission Tickets

There are different admission tickets and pamphlets available for purchase. :admission_tickets:

🌅 Sunset Views

Catch the magical sunset behind the pagoda for an unforgettable experience. :sunriseovermountains:

What Travellers Say

4.1
(633 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Hokki-ji Temple is lauded for its historical significance, particularly its status as home to Japan's oldest three-story pagoda. Visitors appreciate the serene atmosphere, the beauty of the surrounding cosmos fields in autumn, and the friendly staff. While it's a bit off the beaten path, the journey is considered worthwhile for its tranquil and authentic experience.

"Great anciant temple in Japan.
Three-storied pagoda is COOL!"

monk 119

"This temple has the oldest 3 storied pagoda in Japan. The pagoda is 1300 years old. The gentlemen working there are very kind and friendly to visitors!"

Yuo

"Last Nights Sunset in Ikaruga Town with Hoki-ji Pagoda as the background.
This is the “Three-Story Pagoda” of Hōki-ji Temple, founded in 638 by Prince Shotoku. The Pagoda was built in 708 and is the oldest three-story pagoda in Japan."

Kyoto Dream Trips

What People Like

Oldest three-story pagoda
Serene atmosphere
Cosmos fields in autumn

What People Dislike

Can be crowded at peak times
Limited amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, take a bus towards Horyuji Temple. From Horyuji, you can take a local bus or enjoy a pleasant walk to Hokki-ji Temple. Allow approximately 1-1.5 hours for the journey.

Hokki-ji Temple is not directly accessible by train. The nearest train station is Horyuji Station, from which you'll need to take a bus or walk to reach the temple.

Many visitors enjoy walking between Horyuji Temple and Hokki-ji Temple, as it's a relatively short and scenic route. Buses are also available if you prefer not to walk.

Information on parking facilities at Hokki-ji Temple is limited, but it's advisable to check local resources or consider public transport to avoid potential parking issues.

Yes, Hokki-ji Temple can be included in a day trip from Osaka. It's often visited in conjunction with Horyuji Temple and other nearby attractions in Nara Prefecture.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is an admission fee to enter the grounds of Hokki-ji Temple. Different ticket types and pamphlets are available for purchase.

Opening hours for Hokki-ji Temple can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official temple website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.

Information on advance ticket purchases for Hokki-ji Temple is not widely available. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the temple.

Details on discounts for Hokki-ji Temple admission are not readily provided. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter or check official sources for any available concessions.

The admission ticket typically grants access to the temple grounds, including the area around the three-story pagoda and any gardens. Specific inclusions may vary.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The main attraction is undoubtedly the ancient three-story pagoda, which is the oldest of its kind in Japan and a designated National Treasure. The serene temple grounds and surrounding cosmos fields (in autumn) are also highlights.

Hokki-ji Temple can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help you avoid the largest crowds.

Yes, photography is now allowed within the grounds of Hokki-ji Temple, offering great opportunities to capture the pagoda and the serene atmosphere.

A visit to Hokki-ji Temple can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and interest in exploring the grounds and surrounding areas.

Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. Information on other amenities such as cafes or shops is limited, so it's advisable to come prepared.

🎫 🌸 Gardens & Nature

Yes, Hokki-ji Temple features beautiful gardens, including vibrant cosmos fields that are particularly stunning in the autumn. These offer a lovely natural setting to complement the historic architecture.

The cosmos fields surrounding Hokki-ji Temple are typically in full bloom during the autumn months, usually from September to October. This is a popular time for visitors seeking beautiful floral scenery.

The cosmos fields are often mentioned as being surrounding the temple, and one review suggests there's no admission fee for them, but the temple grounds themselves do have an admission fee.

Hokki-ji Temple is located in Ikaruga Town, Nara Prefecture, an area rich in historical sites and natural beauty. Nearby attractions like Horyuji Temple also offer serene environments.

Picnicking rules can vary at historical sites. It's best to check with temple staff or look for designated areas if you plan to have a picnic to ensure you're following their guidelines.

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