Yasaka-no-to Pagoda, Japan

A long pagoda rising overlooking the floating world of Gion below, Yasaka-no-to Pagoda is a lovely sight by day or night.

 

 
While most pagodas come complete with temples, Yasaka-no-to Pagoda stands mostly alone, the buildings of the temple of which it once belonged (Hokan-ji Temple) having been destroyed by fires, earthquakes and wars over the years.

 

 
We’re thankful that the pagoda survived. It stands at the top of Yasaka-dori, which is itself unique for the lack of overhead power lines, which were removed to preserve the view of the pagoda. The pagoda can easily be accessed from Higashioji-dori, or by ducking off of the bottom of Ninen-zaka. It’s particularly lovely after sunset, all of the stores are closed and there are not that many people.

Make sure you bring you’re tripod and try different times per day.