
[Let's enjoy the spring! Kyoto's cherry blossom viewing...
The cherry blossom season has come again this year. Depending on where and when you view them, the cherry blossoms will show you different expressions. In this issue, we will introduce information on cherry blossom illumination in Kyoto, from famous temples where you can enjoy nighttime viewing only, to hidden places where you can stroll freely. Enjoy the fantastic nighttime cherry blossoms, which are different from those in the daytime.
The Sagano Trolley Train is a sightseeing train that allows you to enjoy the natural scenery of the Hozugawa River Gorge. The 25-minute train ride in a classic and cute locomotive is full of spectacular scenery that you should not miss. The train conductor will guide you through the valley, and you will be able to see cherry blossoms in the valley that you cannot see in town.
Best time to visit: Mid-March to early April
Spring Lighting & Illumination"
Period / Thursday, March 20, 2025 to Sunday, April 6, 2025
Hours / 16:30 to the last train
*Temporary trains will be operated during the period, with one extra round trip in the evening.
One round-trip service is available on March 28 (Fri.)-30 (Sun.) and April 4 (Fri.)-6 (Sun.).
Fare: Adults 880 yen, children 440 yen
The area along the Shirakawa River that runs from Higashiyama to the Gion area is called "Gion Shirakawa.
In particular, the Gion Shinbashi area near Tatsumi Bridge and Tatsumi Daimeishin Shrine was designated as a national preservation area for traditional buildings in 1976, and more than 50 teahouse-style townhouses are still preserved in this area today. At night, the rows of cherry trees along the Shirakawa River from Kawabata-dori to Tatsumi-bashi Bridge are lit up, creating an even more emotional atmosphere with the traditional buildings and cobblestone pavement.
Best time to visit: Late March - early April
The 32nd Gion Shirakawa Yoizakura Light-up
Period / Friday, March 28, 2025 - Sunday, April 6, 2025
Hours/18:00-22:00
free to stroll (i.e. to take a stroll)
Shoju-in Temple was built in Shoji 2 (1200) as the pagoda temple of the Iryo Kyokoji Temple [Shoju-in Temple].
The heart-shaped inome, a traditional Japanese pattern, is meant to ward off misfortune and invite good fortune. The view from inside the Kyakuden is breathtaking, as the inome window is tinted in cherry blossom colors and filled with cherry blossoms as far as the eye can see. The nearly 100-year-old cherry tree on the side of the main hall is also a sight not to be missed.
Best time to visit: Late March - early April
2025Spring Special Viewing "Kanzakura-kai (Cherry Blossom Viewing (Cherry Blossom Illumination)
Period / Friday, March 28 - Monday, March 31, 2025 and Friday, April 4 - Sunday, April 6, 2025
*Please note that the period may be extended or additional days may be added depending on the blooming of cherry trees.
Hours: 17:30-19:00 19:30-20:30 *Full changeover system
Entrance fee: Adults 1,000 yen, elementary school students 500 yen
Special viewing is by reservation only.here
Approximately 360 cherry trees, including Someiyoshino cherry trees, are planted from Nijo Dori to Gojo Dori [Kiyamachi Dori]. Of these, the cherry trees in Shimokiyacho, from Shijo Dori to Matsubara Dori, are illuminated during the blooming period. Enjoy the nighttime cherry blossoms of the city floating on the surface of the Takase River.
Best time to visit: Late March - early April
free to stroll (i.e. to take a stroll)
Founded by Priest Nichizo in the Kamakura period (1185-1333). Myokenji Temple was granted by Emperor Godaigo to pray for the protection of the nation and the prosperity of the imperial family, and even today it is associated with the imperial family. The garden of Shikai Shoin Garden facing the Imperial Gate is illuminated and visitors can enjoy the Japanese garden with weeping cherry trees in a solemn atmosphere.
Best time to visit: Late March - early April
Spring Special Open House
Period / March 22 (Saturday) to April 6 (Sunday), 2025
Extension may be possible depending on the blooming of cherry blossoms.
Time/ 10:00 - 16:00 18:00 - 20:00 (reception until 20:00) *Light up is available.
Admission: ¥800 for adults, free for elementary school students and younger
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