Hongaku-ji is easily missed, hidden as it is behind a car park off Wakamiyaoji Dori. It is easier to find if you approach it from the other side, through its main entrance, near the bridge over the small river (Ebisudobashi). I found that many local people use the temple as a thoroughfare. The temple is fairly small, but has attractive buildings and shrines, and some nice gardens. The hydrangeas were in bloom in June when I visited. Apparently the temple is notable for holding the tomb of the great swordsmith Masamune. You can combine a visit here with a visit to 2 other temples: enter Daigyo-ji from Wakamiyaoji, walk through and turn right down the road to the bridge. Hongaku-ji is on your right. After your visit here, cross the bridge and go ahead to visit Myohon-ji, a most beautiful temple, in a strikingly different setting, a small deep wooded valley.