Hōkyō-in

Hōkyō-in is a Buddhist temple in Sagano known for its traditional Japanese gardens featuring seasonal maple trees and carefully positioned stone elements throughout its grounds. The site contains multiple connected areas that blend residential spaces, meditation halls, and outdoor gardens into a single designed composition.

The temple was founded during the Heian period as a prayer site for Emperor Shirakawa and later received its name from Yoshiakira Ashikaga's Buddhist title. This connection between imperial patronage and an influential samurai family shaped the site's importance across centuries.

The temple maintains a seasonal display in its traditional alcove that reflects how people here connect interior spaces with the natural world. This changing decoration shows the Japanese practice of bringing seasonal awareness into everyday rooms.

The temple sits in a quiet residential area and is easily walkable, with plenty of space to explore the grounds without crowds. Comfortable shoes are recommended since you will need to remove them when entering interior spaces.

The temple serves as final resting place for two military leaders from opposing sides who held mutual respect despite their conflict. This unusual union of former enemies at a meditation site shows how Buddhism here transcended personal enmities.