All About Nishijin (3): Cherry Blossoms in Nishijin
When the Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms fall, it may seem that the cherry blossom season has come to an end. However, in Nishijin, the blossoms were still in full bloom just last week. This time, let us share a little about the flowers of Nishijin.
Even during sakura season, the Nishijin area remains relatively calm. Unlike Higashiyama or Arashiyama, where tourist flock in large numbers,Nishijin remains relatively calm, probably because access to the area isn't very convenient without a bicycle. That said, the number of visitors exploring Nishijin or staying in local accommodations has gradually increased.
There are many beautiful cherry blossom viewing spots here, especially for those interested in rarer or unusual varieties. Travelers who miss the peak season of the Somei Yoshino (late March to early April) can still enjoy blossoms in a surprisingly serene environment.
Somei Yoshino cherry trees bloom throughout Kyoto, but Nishijin offers a peaceful spot where you can enjoy them within a comfortable walking distance. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth a visit.
Particularly charming is around Ogawa-dori Street, where the spirit of the tea ceremony lingers in the air. Despite its quintessentially Kyoto atmosphere, it remains largely undiscovered by tourists. With quiet Japanese-style cafés at the end of the street, it’s a perfect setting for those who wish to savor Kyoto at a slower pace.
Hirano Shrine
While most think cherry blossoms begin with the Somei Yoshino, the Sakigake-zakura (the “forerunner cherry”) blooms even earlier at Hirano Shrine. Though spectacular when in full bloom, the main cherry blossom area becomes very crowded. To protect the trees, the grounds are partially enclosed, and an entry fee is charged—unfortunately detracting from the ambiance.
We recommend the later-blooming varieties instead. The bright yellow Ukon-zakura, which glows in the sunlight, and the Gyoikou-zakura, which transitions from green to soft pink, are especially enchanting. Other highlights include adorable Kiku-zakura and many more rare varieties.
Horikawa Street
Though lined with a paved canal and adjacent to a main road, this area offers a wide range of late-blooming cherry blossoms. The trees stretch over a considerable distance (from Imadegawa to Karasuma, near Nijo-castle), making it ideal for those who enjoy viewing blossoms while strolling through the city.
Senbon Shakado (Daihoon-ji Temple)
This quiet temple features weeping cherry trees and late-blooming varieties such as Gyoikou and Fugenzo. The temple itself, a well-preserved structure from the Kamakura period, is the oldest surviving building within the city limits—having even survived the Ōnin War.
Senbon Enmado (Injo-ji Temple)
Believed to trace its origins to Ono no Takamura, this temple venerates Enma, the King of Hell and is also known for the memorial pagoda of Murasaki Shikibu. The Fugenzo-zakura, named after Fugen Bosatsu—rider of the twin-tusked white elephant—blooms with a quiet reverence.The unusual leaf-like structures that emerge from the center of the blossom are said to resemble those ivory tusks. Historical texts even refer to this particular tree, underscoring its noble pedigree.
As the late-blooming cherry blossoms begin to wane, the fresh green of Kyoto’s early maple leaves starts to shine. If time allows, a stop by Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also well worth it.