Hokoji Temple
Hōkō-ji方広寺
Hokoji Temple
Hōkō-ji方広寺
About Hokoji Temple
Hōkō-ji is a temple defined by a dramatic history of ambition and political downfall. Originally built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi to house a Great Buddha rivaling Nara's, the complex was devastated by an earthquake. Its reconstruction by Hideyoshi's son, Hideyori, included a colossal bronze bell whose inscription was infamously used by Tokugawa Ieyasu as a pretext to initiate the Siege of Osaka, leading to the annihilation of the Toyotomi clan. Today, the modest temple stands as a poignant memorial, with the massive, fateful bell still visible.
Cultural Assets
The Great Bell of Hōkō-ji
Important Cultural PropertyOne of Japan's three great bells, its controversial 1614 inscription was used by Tokugawa Ieyasu as the casus belli for the Siege of Osaka, which destroyed the Toyotomi clan.
Last admission is at 16:00. The temple has no scheduled closing days.
Entry to the main grounds and viewing the bell tower is free. The adjacent park marking the site of the former Great Buddha Hall is also freely accessible.
A brief visit to see the bell and grounds takes 20-30 minutes. Allow up to an hour to read the historical plaques and contemplate the site of the former Great Buddha Hall in the adjacent park.
The main grounds are relatively flat, but as a historic site there may be uneven surfaces or steps.
Best Time to Visit
As a 'hidden gem' often bypassed by tourists, visit on any weekday to experience this historic site in relative tranquility.
Getting There
From Kyoto Station, take City Bus #100, #206, or #207 to the 'Higashiyama Yasui' stop, followed by a 5-minute walk. Alternatively, it is a 4-minute walk from Shichijo Station on the Keihan Line.
Photography Policy
Photography of the temple grounds and the bell tower is generally permitted. Photography is prohibited inside the main hall.
