Rokkaku-do Temple
六角堂
The birthplace of ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement) and one of Kyoto's most historically significant city-center temples. Its hexagonal hall gives the temple its name. Founded 587 AD by Prince Shotoku, making it one of Kyoto's oldest temples. Located in the heart of the shopping district.
Key Architectural & Sacred Highlights
- Birthplace of ikebana (Ikenobo school founded here)
- Unique hexagonal main hall (hence "Rokkaku")
- One of Kyoto's oldest temples (587 AD)
- Beautiful weeping cherry tree
- Free admission in city center
- Swan pond with resident swans
- Starbucks next door with temple view
📍 How to Get There
Nearest Station
Karasuma Oike Station (Subway) - 5 min walk
Step-by-Step Directions
- 1 From Kyoto Station: Subway Karasuma Line to Karasuma Oike (6 min), walk 5 min south
- 2 From Nishiki Market: 3 minute walk south
- 3 From Kawaramachi shopping area: 5 minute walk west
- 4 Very central location - easy to visit while shopping
Live Municipal Bus Approach GTFS-RT
Nearest Stop: Karasuma Sanjo (烏丸三条) • ~3 min walk
Footwear & Accessibility Radar
Shoes Allowed Throughout Courtyard
Urban courtyard home to sacred swans and navel stone (Heso-ishi); shoes permitted.
Centrally located in downtown Kyoto; completely flat flagstone paving with adjacent building elevator overlooking hexagonal roof.
Location & Maps
🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
35.0075 135.762222 💡 Tip: "View Location" shows the temple on the map. "Get Directions" navigates from your current position.
Best Time to Visit
Weeping cherry tree in early April is stunning against the hexagonal hall. Also lovely during ikebana exhibitions. Any time works as it's centrally located - easy to pop in while shopping in Kawaramachi/Nishiki area.
Contact & Info
248 Donomae-cho, Rokkaku-dori, Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto 604-8134
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