Cherry blossoms at Joushoukouji|Blooming 2024

常照皇寺の桜

Zen kun
Josho-kouji Temple is located in the northernmost part of Kyoto and is famous for its cherry blossoms. The temple boasts magnificent cherry blossoms, including the Kujyu-zakura, a national natural treasure, and the Sakon-no-zakura, which was split from the cherry tree in front of the Shikinden Hall in the Kyoto Imperial Palace!

Cherry Blossoms at Joushoukouji Temple

Cherry blossoms at Joushoukouji Temple
Blooming Status 2024
Past peak bloom

Basic Information

Cherry blossom spot Joushoukouji Temple
Best time to see the cherry blossoms Early April to mid-April
Types of Cherry Blossoms Kujyu-zakura (nine-tiered cherry blossoms), Mikuruma-zakura (cherry blossoms with a return of the wheel), Sakon-zakura (cherry blossoms with a return of the wheel)
Hours of operation 9:00-16:00
Admission fee 500 yen (as a voluntary donation)
Light-up No light-up
Parking lot Parking is available
Location 14-6 Maruyama, Keihoku Idocho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto 601-0313
Phone number: +81-(0)75-853-0003 075-853-0003

Features and Highlights

  • The nine-tiered cherry tree, a national natural treasure
  • Sakon-no-zakura” cherry tree, a branch of the cherry tree in front of the Shikikiden Hall of the Kyoto Imperial Palace
  • The “Mikurumigarashi” cherry tree, which has both single and double blossoms at the same time.
  • Relax and enjoy cherry blossom viewing in the quiet precincts deep in the mountains.

The tree is 650 years old! Bubbling nine-tiered cherry blossoms in full bloom

The “kujyu-zakura” cherry tree, said to be 650 years old, is one of the most famous cherry trees at Josho-ko-ji Temple. It is said to have been planted by Emperor Kogon, and its lovely blossoms have attracted many visitors. In recent years, decay has progressed to the point that only one branch bears blossoms, but its presence is still overwhelming.

常照皇寺の桜
常照皇寺の桜
常照皇寺の桜
常照皇寺の桜

Sakon-no-zakura and Mikuruma-ganeshi cherry blossoms

Another must-see is the Sakon-no-zakura cherry tree, which was split from the cherry tree in front of Shikikinden Hall in the Kyoto Imperial Palace. This cherry tree has lovely white flowers. Another popular cherry blossom is the “Mikurumagarashi no Sakura,” which has single and double blossoms at the same time. The pure white blossoms are beautiful, and when they are at their best, the precincts of the shrine are decorated with gorgeous colors.

常照皇寺の桜
Goshogawari-no Sakura (Cherry Blossoms at the Return of the Goshogawari Cherry Tree)

Joshokoji Temple is located deep in the mountains, away from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto, and is surrounded by an atmosphere of tranquility. The temple grounds are dotted with cherry trees, creating a luxurious space where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms all to themselves.

How to access

  • Take the Kyoto Keihoku Furusato Kosha bus, get off at Yamakuni Goryo-mae bus stop, and walk about 3 minutes.

Conclusion

Josho-kouji Temple is a hidden spot where you can enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms in Kyoto. The temple grounds are decorated with famous trees including “Kujyu-zakura,” a national natural treasure, and visitors can enjoy the spectacular view of cherry blossoms deep in the quiet mountains.

Why not make the last of the cherry blossoms in Kyoto and create an unforgettable memory?