Yoshimine-dera is an ancient Tendai sect temple that was founded by the monk Gensan in the mid-Heian period and is also the 20th temple of the Thirty-three Western Temples.
Located in the mountains in Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto City, the temple is known for the cherry blossoms and other flowers that decorate its grounds throughout the year.

In this article, we will comprehensively introduce the charms of the cherry blossoms at Zenbouji Temple, the best time to see them, access information, as well as photo spots that will look great on social media and tips for enjoying the view even more.

The reason why the cherry blossoms at Yoshimineji Temple attract people

The founding of the temple by Gensan Shonin and the conversion of the Imperial family

Zenbouji Temple was founded in 1029 (Chōgen 2) when the monk Gensan founded "Hokkein Temple on Achizaka." By imperial decree of Emperor Gosuzaku, the Thousand-Armed Kannon was enshrined as the principal image, and the temple was elevated to an imperially-prayed place of protection for the nation, receiving deep devout support from the imperial family.

Furthermore, as the 20th temple on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, it is a key location on the pilgrimage and has been renowned as a prestigious temple that has been visited by many worshippers since ancient times. During cherry blossom season, the blossoms in full bloom with the temple in the background create a fantastical landscape that seems like another world.

The story of the revival brought about by Keishoin's donation

Zenpoji Temple was forced into a period of decline after the temple buildings in its precincts were burned down during the Onin War (1467-). However, in the Edo period, a donation from Tokugawa Tsunayoshi's mother, Keishoin, gave the temple a chance to revive.

Particularly famous are the construction of the "Kyoto Sutra Hall" and the "Keishoin Weeping Cherry Tree" which is said to have been planted by Keishoin, and its presence has made the scenery of the old temple even more gorgeous. The story that has been passed down while overcoming the rough waves of history is one of the reasons that attracts so many people, along with the cherry blossoms.

Points that make the cherry blossoms at Zenbouji Temple so beautiful

An elegant world created by weeping cherry blossoms and peony cherry blossoms

There are about 500 cherry trees scattered around Zenbouji Temple, including weeping cherry trees, peony cherry trees, and higan cherry trees. In particular, the Keishoin Weeping Cherry Tree is an ancient tree that is said to be over 300 years old, spreading its branches gracefully to the west of the Kyodo Hall. The sight of the flowers densely blooming all the way to the tips of the branches is an unforgettable sight at first sight. The late-blooming peony cherry trees are also not to be missed, and as they bloom until late April, you can enjoy the gorgeous flower scenery for a relatively long period of time.

The sight of the weeping cherry blossoms, resembling a waterfall, surrounded by the cool mountain air, will have you feeling like your soul is being cleansed. The unique volume and elegance of the cherry blossoms are sure to be a highlight of this temple.

A spectacular view created by the difference in altitude and "Yuryu no Matsu"

The grounds of Zenbouji Temple are spread out on a slope, so the viewpoint changes greatly depending on the location. From the higher grounds you can get a panoramic view of the Kyoto Basin, and from the lower grounds you can enjoy a composition looking up at the temple surrounded by cherry blossoms, so there are plenty of variations in the photography opportunities.

Another must-see is the nationally designated natural monument, the "Yuryu no Matsu." This 37m long Japanese white pine tree has powerful, undulating branches that resemble a dragon, creating a striking contrast with the delicate cherry blossoms. The quintessential Japanese collaboration of cherry blossoms and pine trees is a scenic spot that is popular with tourists from overseas.

When is the best time to enjoy the cherry blossoms at Yoshimineji Temple?

Long flowering period from early to late April

At Zenpouji Temple, which is at a higher elevation than downtown Kyoto, the cherry blossoms begin to bloom a little later. They usually bloom in early April, and late-blooming varieties such as peony cherry blossoms reach full bloom one after another until the end of the month, so you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing for about a month. With the weeping cherry blossoms, higan cherry blossoms, and peony cherry blossoms blooming in succession, you can enjoy a diverse cherry blossom landscape that cannot be seen in such a short span of time.

On windy days, the petals will fly down, creating a fantastical sight of cherry blossoms falling like snow, further fascinating the visitors. As there are temperature differences unique to mountain valleys, it is a good idea to visit with warm clothes and rain gear.

If you want to avoid the crowds, early morning or weekdays are the best

When the cherry blossoms reach their peak, the parking lot often fills up quickly on weekends. If you want to take your time taking photos or soak in the quiet atmosphere, it's best to go on a weekday morning or right after the gates open.

According to official information, Zenbouji Temple does not currently have any illuminations, so nighttime viewing is generally not available. Please enjoy the beauty of the flowers in natural light during the daytime hours.

How can you enjoy the cherry blossoms at Zenbouji Temple even more?

A photo spot perfect for social media

Keishoin Weeping Cherry Blossoms and Kyodo Hall

The most notable attraction is the Keishoin Weeping Cherry Blossom, which stands magnificently on the west side of Kyodo. The contrast between the old wooden architecture and the weeping cherry blossoms that bloom like a waterfall is photogenic. If you come at a time when there are fewer people, you can take even more beautiful photos.

Contrast between the Yuryu Pine and the cherry blossoms

The 37m long Goyomatsu (five-needle pine) "Yuryu no Matsu" (Yuryu Pine) is so impressive that you will be overwhelmed at first sight. The deep green pine tree, set against the pale pink cherry blossoms, creates an atmosphere reminiscent of a Japanese painting.

A panoramic view of the Kyoto Basin from a high vantage point

If you walk around the temple grounds, you'll come across a vantage point from which you can get a panoramic view of Kyoto city. Photographing the cityscape stretching into the distance and the sea of cherry blossoms in the foreground together creates a spectacular photo with a sense of scale.

A temple grounds decorated with cherry blossoms and history

In between your visits, it is recommended to quietly place your hands together in prayer at the Kannon Hall (main hall) or the Sutra Hall and take your time to look at the historic buildings. Looking at the cherry blossoms while thinking about the background to the temple's restoration, which was made possible by the donations of Keishoin, will leave you with a deeper feeling than a simple cherry blossom viewing.

Access to Yoshimineji Temple

By public transport

・Nearest station: JR "Mukomachi Station" or Hankyu "Higashi-Muko Station"
・Bus: Take Hankyu Bus No. 66 bound for Zenbouji for about 30 minutes, get off at the last stop, Zenbouji, and then walk for about 8 minutes to reach the temple grounds.

There are not many buses, so it is essential to check the timetable in advance. If you are not good at driving on mountain roads or want to avoid crowded parking lots, we recommend using public transportation.

Access and parking information

・Route: From Kyoto city, take National Route 9 and you can arrive in about 30 minutes.
Parking: 500 yen all day (only coins or 1000 yen notes accepted), it often fills up so it's recommended to arrive early

▼Location of Zenkoji Temple

Spots around Zenbouji Temple and how to enjoy it

Nishiyama area walking course

The Nishiyama area, including Zenbouji Temple, is dotted with other temples and shrines, including the Thirty-Three Temples of the Saigoku Pilgrimage. The attraction is being able to stroll around multiple temples while enjoying the tranquil scenery of the countryside. In addition to the cherry blossom season, the area offers different views throughout the year, with fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and snowy scenery, making it a popular area for repeat visitors.

Gourmet food and souvenirs within a 15-minute drive

There aren't many restaurants or cafes near the temple grounds, but you can reach Nagaokakyo City in about 15 minutes by car. Here you can find shops selling locally produced ingredients and souvenirs, so it's a great place to take a short break after worshipping. Enjoying Japanese sweets and light meals while basking in the lingering aroma of the cherry blossoms will surely make your trip even more memorable.

summary

There are many famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Kyoto, but Zenbouji Temple exudes a unique charm with its fusion of the tranquility of the mountain valley, historic architecture, and a variety of unique cherry blossoms, including the Keishoin weeping cherry tree.

The greatest attraction of Zenbouji Temple is that you can feel the timeless "breath of spring" in a spectacular setting where history and nature blend in harmony, including the weeping cherry tree that is said to have been planted by Keishoin.

Be sure to make your way to the Nishiyama area this spring and enjoy the unique silence and spectacular feast of cherry blossoms to your heart's content. Great photos for social media and unforgettable memories are sure to await you.