Hotoji Temple (宝塔寺)

Hotoji Temple is located south of Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Sekihoji Temple. Few tourists visit here.

According to temple legend, Fujiwara no Mototsune, the Kanpaku (highest ranking officer) of the time, founded the temple in the early Heian period (late 9th century). At that time, it was Gokurakuji temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. Gokurakuji temple is mentioned in “Fujino Uraba,” 33rd chapter in the Tale of Genji (Genji Monogatari).

The temple was converted to Nichiren Buddhism in 1307 at the end of the Kamakura period.

Temple’s official WEB site

Hotoji Temple architecture

The ground of the temple is located in the middle of Mt. Shichimenzan. There are the oldest main hall of Nichiren Shoshu in Kyoto, the main gate, the oldest pagoda in the city, and these are important cultural properties. It also contains the vermilion Niomon Gate, Shichimen Daimyojin Shrine on the mountain, and seven sub-temples.

Nearby spots

Famous Fusimi Inari Taisha Shrine is easily accessible.

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine (伏見稲荷大社)

If you are interested in the works by Ito Jakuchu, don’t miss the Sekihoji Temple.

Sekihoji Temple (石峰寺) Temple associated with Ito Jakuchu

Walking along the canal to Fujimori Jinja Shrine during cherry blossom season, you will enjoy beautiful scenery.

Fujimori Jinja Shrine (藤森神社)