After Kiyomizu-dera, I followed the scenic trail down the Higashiyama hillside toward the striking Sanjūnotō Pagoda (Three-Story Pagoda), a smaller yet elegant landmark nestled among the trees and traditional shops, still buzzing with tourists even in the light rain.

Sanjūnotō, also known as Yasaka Pagoda or Hōkan-ji Pagoda, is a compact three-tiered wooden pagoda dating back to 589 CE in its original form, though the current structure was rebuilt in 1460 during the Muromachi period. Standing about 24 meters tall, it features the classic tapering design with ornate roofs, white eaves, and a central spire, perched on a stone base overlooking Kyoto's eastern slopes, offering a photogenic contrast to the larger temple complexes nearby. Part of the UNESCO-listed Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, it's dedicated to Kannon (the goddess of mercy) and draws visitors for its postcard-perfect views, especially at dusk when lanterns illuminate the surrounding streets.

Your photos capture its intimate scale amid the greenery, wet paths, and distant city haze, a quiet highlight after the crowds at Kiyomizu-dera where the pagoda peeks through foliage or stands framed by lanterns and hillsides. Despite the steady stream of admirers, the narrow lanes around it feel more serene, making it an ideal stop for a reflective moment on this rainy Kyoto afternoon.