Featured Hotels Near Gumyo-ji

Near Ryōōzan Hongyō-ji Temple in Yokohama, Japan, the Yokohama Hongyō-ji Onsen Hotel is highly recommended. This boutique ryokan blends traditional Japanese architecture with modern amenities and is just a 5-minute walk from the temple grounds. The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to the temple and nearby attractions, enhancing convenience for visitors.

Guest rooms feature private outdoor onsen baths, allowing guests to soak while enjoying serene views of surrounding forests and mountain landscapes. The hotel also serves authentic kaiseki cuisine daily, showcasing seasonal local ingredients and meticulous presentation.

Notably, the temple hosts the annual Cherry Blossom Festival in spring, featuring illuminated lantern processions that attract thousands. Staying during this period provides a rare opportunity to experience the spiritual and cultural harmony between nature and tradition in one of Yokohama’s most revered sites.

From central Yokohama, take the Tōkyū Tōyamadai Line to Hongyō-ji Station, then walk about 10 minutes along Hongyō-ji-dori to reach Ryōōzan Hongyō-ji Temple. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes and offers a convenient, scenic route ideal for day trips. Alternatively, a taxi ride takes around 15 minutes but may be costly and subject to limited parking availability near the temple.

Use Google Maps for real-time navigation and check the temple's opening hours (typically 6:30–17:00). During spring and autumn, the temple hosts large-scale events such as the Cherry Blossom Festival or Autumn Illumination, drawing crowds—plan accordingly to avoid peak times.

The temple grounds feature a Heian-period bell and a prominent Kannon statue with a thousand arms, offering deep historical and spiritual significance. Some seasons also include nighttime lantern processions, creating a tranquil, meditative atmosphere perfect for reflection and photography.

Near Ryōōzan Hongyō-ji Temple, don’t miss Hongyō-ji Tofu, a handcrafted tofu made with pure mountain spring water. Available at the historic Hongyō-ji Tofuya shop just outside the temple gate, this silky, rich tofu has been served for over 80 years and is sold by daily quota—arrive early to secure a portion.

Closeby, Yama no Mi Izakaya offers authentic Yokohama curry rice and fresh bonito sushi, served with panoramic views of the temple’s forested surroundings. The combination of local flavors and serene ambiance makes it a favorite among both locals and travelers.

For a deeper cultural experience, join the weekly tea ceremony workshop held every Saturday at the temple’s traditional tea house. Led by experienced tea masters, participants learn the art of matcha preparation and wagashi (Japanese sweets) making. Reservations required, with fees around ¥3,000. This immersive session offers a peaceful, meditative way to connect with Japan’s traditional lifestyle.

Each spring, Ryōōzan Hongyō-ji Temple hosts the grand Cherry Blossom Festival, where hundreds of Prunus serrulata trees bloom in full glory. At night, the entire hillside is illuminated by thousands of lanterns in a mesmerizing lantern procession, creating an ethereal atmosphere.

During the event, visitors can rent kimono and enjoy live performances of traditional Japanese arts like Noh and Kabuki. The festival is especially popular among tourists seeking authentic cultural immersion.

In autumn, the temple holds the Red Leaf Night Festival, transforming the trails into a golden-red canvas. Live shamisen music and zen meditation workshops enhance the tranquil ambiance.

Additionally, during the Lunar New Year, the temple conducts a major Hatsumōde ceremony attracting thousands of pilgrims. Guests can purchase omamori (protective charms) and ema (prayer plaques), writing wishes and hanging them on the prayer racks. To avoid crowds, consider arriving the day before and dedicating at least half a day to fully experience these unique traditions rooted in harmony between nature and spirituality.

Near Ryōe-san Hongyō-ji Temple in Yokohama, Japan, the Yokohama Hongyō-ji Onsen Hotel is highly recommended. Just a 5-minute walk from the temple, this boutique hotel blends traditional Japanese architecture with modern comfort. Guests can enjoy free foot baths and a serene Zen garden after visiting the temple.

Another excellent option is Hongyō-ji Mountain Stay Homestay, housed in a renovated historic building with wooden interiors and private garden views. Some rooms offer panoramic vistas of Yokohama’s skyline and the temple’s pagoda. The property also hosts tea ceremony workshops, allowing visitors to immerse in authentic Japanese culture. Conveniently located, it takes only 15 minutes by subway from Yokohama Station, making access easy for both day-trippers and overnight guests.

The most convenient way from central Yokohama is to take the Blue Line Subway to Hongyō-ji Station, a 15-minute ride. Upon exiting, walk along Hongyō-ji-dōri for about 8 minutes to reach Ryōe-san Hongyō-ji Temple. Along the route, you’ll pass traditional machiya houses and local shops, enhancing the cultural atmosphere.

For a quieter journey, take Bus Route 301 from Yokohama Station and alight at "Hongyō-ji Park Mae." It’s just a 3-minute walk to the temple. This route passes through the Minato Mirai district and Yamate area, offering scenic views of urban and natural landscapes. The temple also features a free parking lot, ideal for travelers driving from elsewhere.

Ryōe-san Hongyō-ji Temple offers immersive cultural experiences beyond its historical significance as a Rinzai Zen temple. Guests can participate in the daily morning bell-ringing ceremony, a spiritual ritual that fosters mindfulness and tranquility.

The temple hosts Zen meditation workshops weekly, including zazen (seated meditation), sutra copying, and tea ceremony sessions—ideal for travelers seeking inner peace. An on-site ancient manuscript exhibition hall displays rare Edo-period Buddhist scriptures and woodblock prints, with guided tours available.

During spring, the temple holds a cherry blossom pilgrimage event, featuring lantern lighting and nighttime viewing. In summer, the Obon Festival Ceremony includes traditional dances and bonfire rituals. Reservations are required; check the official website or front desk for schedules and availability.

Families staying near Hongyō-ji Temple can visit Yokohama City Hongyō-ji Park, featuring playgrounds, a pond, walking paths, and picnic areas perfect for outdoor fun. The park also hosts the Hongyō-ji Nature Education Center, offering guided nature walks and wildlife observation programs for children, led by trained educators.

Another top choice is the Yokohama Municipal Aquarium, just a 10-minute drive away, with interactive exhibits and dolphin shows that captivate young visitors. For hands-on cultural activities, try a handmade fan-making workshop taught by local artisans—a memorable keepsake.

Nearby, numerous family-friendly restaurants serve kid-approved meals like sushi buffets and traditional kaiseki dining experiences, making it easy for all ages to enjoy a delightful meal together.