High Mountain | Sogenji Temple, a scenic spot for autumn foliage on the Higashiyama Walking Trail.

After visiting Daikouji Temple, you can cross the underground passage to reach the Sogenji Temple complex on the opposite side. It is one of the temples along the Higashiyama Walking Trail in Hida-Takayama. Sogenji Temple is connected to Amaterasu Temple and Hokkeji Temple, forming a beautiful area with a small garden and a bell tower, making it one of Takayama's popular spots for viewing autumn leaves.

✓ Sogenji Temple

One of the 33 Kannon temples of Hida, Sogenji Temple features an impressive main hall and bell tower, along with a beautiful small garden. It is said that the main hall was relocated from the council hall in the San-no-Maru area of Takayama Castle. Its asymmetrical structure is its most distinctive feature, reflecting the style of samurai residences of the time. It is recognized as a cultural heritage site of Takayama City.

✓ Amaterasu Temple

Connected to Sogenji Temple, Amaterasu Temple is also a great spot for viewing autumn foliage. Uniquely, Amaterasu Temple offers a youth hostel where visitors can stay overnight to experience the tranquility of the Higashiyama temples. Highly recommended.

✓ Hokkeji Temple

A serene and peaceful Nichiren Buddhist temple, Hokkeji Temple features a main hall, a Prajna Hall connected by a corridor, and a small pond in the foreground. Additionally, there is a small shrine where locals come to pray daily.

Post by Moutain | Jul 13, 2025