Have you ever needed to expertise Japan’s cherry blossom season? We highlight a number of high spots in Kyoto that can make this dream come true.
Every yr, between late March and early April, Japan’s iconic cherry blossoms (sakura) come into full bloom. This particular time of yr is named hanami, which interprets to “flower viewing.” Hanami is a beloved nationwide pastime in Japan, and there’s no higher place to get pleasure from it than in Kyoto. This historical capital is residence to hundreds of cherry timber, and every spring, vacationers from all around the world flock to the town to admire their magnificence.
1. Daikakuji Temple
The historical Daikakuji Temple was constructed within the 800s and is likely one of the hottest Shingon Buddhist temples in Japan. Located within the scenic area of Arashiyama, you may see cherry blossoms across the temple pond. This lovely temple has been used as a filming website for a lot of historic dramas, so ensure you depart sufficient time to walk the courtyards. Another hanami spot is the enduring Togetsukyo Bridge, which is simply close by.
The admission price is 500yen for temple (approx SGD$5) and 300yen for backyard round Osawa pond (approx SGD$3). The website is open every day from 9am to 5pm (final entry at 430pm).
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2. Maruyama Park (close to Yasaka Shrine)
Okay, so the cherry blossoms should not straight on the shrine, however on the park subsequent to it. The Maruyama Park is a must-visit as it’s the most well-liked native park for hanami celebrations! During the sakura season, meals stalls are arrange within the park, and the big sakura tree is illuminated at night time.
3. Philosopher’s Path (at Ginkakuji Temple)
Ginkakuji is a zen temple within the mountainous Higashiyama area. It was modeled after Kinkakuji, also called the Gold Pavilion. You can discover the sakura on the Philosopher’s Path, which is subsequent to the canal beside the temple. Walking by way of the trail throughout golden hour is a really enchanting expertise, there are tons of of cherry timber lining the road!
Admission is 500 yen (approx. SGD$5) and the grounds are open from 9 am to 430pm (December to February) and 8am to 5pm (March to November).
4. Heian Shrine
The Heian Shrine is a lovely Shinto temple that was constructed to mark the 1100th anniversary of Kyoto’s founding. The grounds are landscaped with tons of of cherry timber and home many fascinating options for guests, together with an exhibit on Japanese historical past that guests can discover. One function stands out as being significantly gorgeous: these Weeping Cherry Trees, which bloom later than most different varieties all through late April or early May, making this backyard among the best cherry blossom spots in Kyoto across the tail finish of the season.
No entrance price is required to enter the shrine grounds. However, when you want to go to the Heian Shrine Garden, you’ll need to pay an admission price of 600 yen (approx. SGD$6). The shrine is open every day from 6am to 5pm.
Bonus!
Okazaki Canal, exterior Heian Shrine![]()
There are many weeping sakura timber lining this canal too. During spring, there are boat excursions to understand the pink environment.
5. Daigoji Temple
A UNESCO world heritage website, the Daigoji Temple is a Shingon Buddhism temple well-known for its structure and surroundings.
Located on the foot of a mountain, there are a lot of mountaineering trails for nature fans. The cherry blossoms might be discovered on the Reihokan Museum and in entrance of the Sanboin. Admission is 1500 yen (Approx SGD$15) which grants you entry to Sanboin, Shimo Daigo and Reihokan Garden. The temple is open from 9am to 5pm.
6. Kiyomizudera
Another UNESCO world heritage website, the Kiyomizudera is called after the attractive waterfalls within the area. The most iconic function of the location is the wood stage, from which guests can get pleasure from a surprising view of the blooming sakura. There are cherry blossoms on the temple balcony, however there are extra cherry timber close to the backyard on the exit. Kiyomizu-Dera’s timber attain a peak in early April. Admission is 400 yen (approx. SGD$4) and the grounds are open from 6am to 6pm.
7. Ninnaji
The Ninnaji Temple is the pinnacle temple of Shingon Buddhism, and was as soon as even generally known as the Omuro Imperial Palace. Although based in 888, not one of the authentic buildings have withstood the take a look at of time. Currently, the oldest constructions left are from the Edo Period within the 1600s. The sakura timber are scattered throughout the temple grounds, and they’re the Omuro Cherries. This selection is greatest recognized for blooming later than the standard Yoshino ones. Admission is 500 yen (approx. SGD$5) and the grounds are open from 8am to 530pm (no entry after 5pm).
8. Hirano Shrine
The Hirano Shrine is likely one of the high hanami spots in Kyoto, and has had annual cherry blossom festivals since yr 985! Food stalls and tables are organized underneath the timber for one month, to the pleasure of holiday makers who are available in numbers for Ohanami. The competition is greater than only a gathering underneath the pink timber. Instead, there will likely be a morning ceremony on the mausoleum of Emperor Kazan, adopted by a procession across the shrine.
Admission to Hirano Shrine is free.