Complete Guide to Joshō-kōji Temple (Kyoto) | Thorough Explanation of the Cherry Blossom Sanctuary Associated with Emperor Kōgen
Nestled deep in the mountains of Kyoto Ward, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto Ward, Joshō-kōji Temple (常照皇寺) is a Rinzai Zen temple of the Tenryū-ji school founded by Emperor Kōgen, the first emperor of the Northern Dynasty during the Nanboku-chō period. Despite being about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from central Kyoto City, the temple continues to enchant visitors with famous cherry blossoms, including the “Kokonoe Cherry,” designated as a National Natural Monument, and beautiful scenery designated as a historically significant natural environment conservation area.
History and Origins of Joshō-kōji Temple
Founding by Emperor Kōgen
The formal name of Joshō-kōji Temple is “Daiō Meizanman Manjujōshō Kōzen-ji (大雄名山万寿常照皇禅寺),” and it was founded in 1362 (Teiji 1) by Emperor Kōgen. During the tumultuous Nanboku-chō period, Emperor Kōgen, who ascended to the throne as the first emperor of the Northern Dynasty, resolved to withdraw from the struggles for power and enter the path of Zen.
Emperor Kōgen built a hermitage in this area of Kyōhoku and spent his later years here. His image of distancing himself from the political turmoil of the time and dedicating himself to Zen practice in the quiet mountains is a story that continues to be passed down as symbolic of the deep connection between the imperial household and Buddhism. According to one account, a defunct Tendai-affiliated temple called Jōjuji that existed in this location was converted into Joshō-kōji Temple.
A Temple with Deep Imperial Connections That Received the Faith of Successive Emperors
Since its founding, Joshō-kōji Temple has developed as a temple with deep imperial connections, receiving the faith of successive emperors. Not only Emperor Kōgen but many members of the imperial family subsequently visited and supported the temple. Within the temple grounds, there are numerous historical sites and cultural properties that demonstrate the deep connection with the imperial family, and the temple is also designated as a historical site by Kyoto Prefecture.
As a Zen temple of the Rinzai Tenryū-ji school, Joshō-kōji Temple has continued to uphold Zen teachings while simultaneously maintaining a special relationship with the imperial family. This unique temple status created by the fusion of these two aspects is a major characteristic of Joshō-kōji Temple.
Highlights of Joshō-kōji Temple
“Kokonoe Cherry,” a National Natural Monument
The cherry tree that represents Joshō-kōji Temple is the “Kokonoe Cherry (九重桜),” designated as a National Natural Monument. This weeping cherry tree, said to be over 600 or even over 650 years old, is believed to have been planted by Emperor Kōgen.
The most distinctive feature of the Kokonoe Cherry is its graceful form with slender branches drooping in multiple layers. In spring, pale reddish flowers cascade down like a waterfall, and their beauty captivates all who see them. The name “Kokonoe” is said to be derived from the way the petals bloom in multiple layers, and it is a rare cherry tree where one can enjoy various blooming styles, from single to fully double, on a single tree.
Despite being an ancient tree that has grown old over the centuries, the Kokonoe Cherry continues to produce beautiful flowers every year, living on with the history of Joshō-kōji Temple as a living cultural property, continuing to enchant many cherry blossom viewers.
“Sakon Cherry,” Associated with the Imperial Palace
Another famous tree on the temple grounds is the “Sakon Cherry (左近の桜).” This cherry tree is said to be a division of the Sakon cherry tree that was planted in front of the Shishinden (Hall of Ceremonies) of the Kyoto Imperial Palace during the Edo period.
The Sakon cherry tree at the Kyoto Imperial Palace has played a symbolic role in important imperial ceremonies since the Heian period. The fact that a descendant of this venerable cherry tree was planted at Joshō-kōji Temple speaks to the deep connection between the imperial family and the temple. The fact that a cherry tree divided from the Imperial Palace continues to bloom beautifully in the deep mountains of Kyōhoku is proof of the high status of Joshō-kōji Temple.
The Legend of the “Imperial Carriage Return” Cherry
One of the three great cherry trees of Joshō-kōji Temple is the “Imperial Carriage Return (御車返し)” cherry. This cherry tree has an interesting legend connected to Emperor Gomiōō.
When Emperor Gomiōō visited Joshō-kōji Temple, as he was about to depart, he was so captivated by the beauty of this cherry tree that he turned his carriage around to view the cherry blossoms once more. The name “Imperial Carriage Return” comes from this anecdote. The characteristic of this cherry tree is that single and fully double blossoms bloom simultaneously on the same branch. The sight of different blooming styles coexisting on a single branch truly evokes the mystery of nature.
Buildings and Cultural Properties in the Temple Grounds
Principal Image and Buddhist Halls
The principal image of Joshō-kōji Temple is a seated Shakyamuni Buddha statue. The Buddhist hall houses the principal image, with an atmosphere that is simple yet solemn in the style of a Zen temple. Additionally, beside the Buddhist hall is an Amida Triad image designated as an Important Cultural Property, enhancing the cultural value of Joshō-kōji Temple.
Shariden Hall and Temple Ground Buildings
In addition to the Buddhist hall, a Shariden (reliquary hall) has been built on the temple grounds. These structures are arranged according to the traditional layout of Zen temples, providing visitors with tranquility and peace. The entire temple grounds, designated as a historical site by Kyoto Prefecture, are protected as a historically valuable space.
Joshō-kōji Kyoto Historically Significant Natural Environment Conservation Area
Designation of the Conservation Area
The area surrounding Joshō-kōji Temple has been designated as the “Joshō-kōji Kyoto Historically Significant Natural Environment Conservation Area.” This recognition acknowledges that the temple and its surrounding natural environment together possess historical and cultural value.
Emperor Kōgen viewed the surrounding nature as his garden and named the mountain behind the temple “Enki Shō (猿帰嶂),” the waterfall “Hakugoku Sen (白玉泉),” and the entire mountain “Banju Rin (万樹林).” Furthermore, there is a tradition that he selected the surrounding scenic areas as “Ten Victories (十勝),” and this landscape can still be enjoyed in much the same form today.
Natural Beauty Throughout the Seasons
The charm of Joshō-kōji Temple extends beyond cherry blossoms. After the spring cherry blossom season ends, fresh green foliage envelops the temple grounds, and in summer, deep green provides coolness. In autumn, autumn leaves color the mountains, and in winter, snow scenery further enhances the atmosphere of the quiet Zen temple.
Especially during the autumn foliage season, unlike tourist destinations in central Kyoto City, visitors can enjoy the autumn leaves slowly while avoiding crowds. By taking a short trip from central Kyoto, one can spend precious time away from the hustle and bustle in this peaceful location.
Access Information
Access by Public Transportation
To visit Joshō-kōji Temple by public transportation, the general approach is to use JR buses.
By JR Bus:
- Board a JR bus bound for “Shūzan” from JR Kyoto Station
- Get off at “Shūzan” and transfer to the Kyōhoku Furusato Bus
- Get off at “Yamagunikuryo-mae” bus stop and walk approximately 15 minutes
As the number of bus routes is limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance. Particularly during the cherry blossom season, temporary buses may be operated, but planning with adequate time allowance is necessary.
Access by Car
From central Kyoto City to Joshō-kōji Temple is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
Main Route:
- Head north from central Kyoto on National Route 162 (Shūzan Kaidō)
- Proceed to the Kyōhoku area via Shūzan
- Follow directional signs to Joshō-kōji Temple
The temple grounds have a parking lot that is available free of charge. However, congestion is expected during peak cherry blossom season, so early arrival is recommended. The route includes mountain roads, so careful driving is necessary.
Viewing Information
Viewing Hours and Admission Fee
Viewing Hours: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM (varies by season)
Admission Fee: Generally on a donation basis (suggested: 300–500 yen)
Viewing hours may change depending on the season and weather, so it is recommended to confirm before visiting.
Best Season to Visit
The best season to visit Joshō-kōji Temple is undoubtedly during the cherry blossom blooming period. Typically from mid to late April, the Kokonoe Cherry, Sakon Cherry, and Imperial Carriage Return cherry blossom in succession. Due to the higher elevation, blooming is usually 1–2 weeks later than in central Kyoto City, providing another opportunity for those who missed the cherry blossoms in the city.
The autumn foliage season is also beautiful, with the temple grounds and surrounding mountains turning red and yellow from early to mid-November. The foliage season is less crowded than cherry blossom season, making it attractive for leisurely walks.
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Attractions of the Kyōhoku Area
The Kyōhoku area, where Joshō-kōji Temple is located, was an independent area known as Kyōhoku Town, Kamikurogata District, before being incorporated into Kyoto City. It is a place where abundant nature and history remain. Several points of interest are scattered in the surrounding area.
Main Attractions in the Area:
- Shūzan Castle Ruins: A mountain castle ruin associated with Akechi Mitsuhide
- Kuroda Crape Myrtle: A giant tree approximately 300 years old
- Kyōhoku Forest Park: A park facility where one can enjoy nature
By visiting Joshō-kōji Temple along with touring the Kyōhoku area, you can have a more fulfilling sightseeing experience.
Notes and Etiquette When Visiting
Mindset as a Zen Temple
Joshō-kōji Temple is simultaneously a tourist destination and a Zen temple where practice is still conducted. When visiting, please note the following:
- Move quietly within the temple grounds so as not to disturb other worshippers
- Photography inside buildings is permitted only in designated areas
- Do not break cherry blossom branches or touch trees
- Take all trash with you
Precautions Specific to Mountainous Areas
Since the Kyōhoku area is located in a mountainous region, the following points also require attention:
- The temperature is lower than in the city, so prepare clothing appropriate to the season
- Cellular phone signal may be weak in some places, so check maps in advance
- During winter, there is a possibility of snow and freezing, so prepare studless tires or chains
- There are few restaurants and convenience stores, so prepare necessary items in advance
How to Fully Enjoy the Charm of Joshō-kōji Temple
Recommendation for Early Morning Visits
The silent atmosphere of Joshō-kōji Temple can be experienced most intensely in the early morning. Especially during cherry blossom season, viewing the cherry blossoms in the crisp morning air provides a deeper sense of emotion. By visiting when there are few tourists, you can savor the original quietness of the Zen temple and the natural beauty that Emperor Kōgen loved.
Learn About History Before Visiting
Having basic knowledge about the Nanboku-chō period and Emperor Kōgen before visiting Joshō-kōji Temple will allow you to understand the temple’s value more deeply. By knowing the historical background, you can view Joshō-kōji Temple not merely as a famous cherry blossom site but as an important stage in Japanese history.
Tips for Photography
Here are some tips for taking beautiful photographs at Joshō-kōji Temple.
- By photographing the Kokonoe Cherry from various angles, you can capture its graceful branches
- The soft light of early morning or evening beautifully illuminates the cherry blossoms
- Combining the Buddhist hall with cherry blossoms creates a composition characteristic of a Zen temple
- During the autumn foliage season, the contrast between the temple moss and the autumn leaves is beautiful
However, it is important not to become so focused on photography that you disturb other worshippers.
Summary
Joshō-kōji Temple is a special place where history and nature are fused, accessible by taking a short trip from central Kyoto City. This place, where Emperor Kōgen sought refuge from the turmoil of the Nanboku-chō period, continues to preserve tranquility and beauty even now, more than 600 years later.
The famous cherry blossoms including the Kokonoe Cherry, designated as a National Natural Monument, the beautiful scenery designated as a Kyoto Historically Significant Natural Environment Conservation Area, and the solemn atmosphere as a Zen temple of the Rinzai Tenryū-ji school. Joshō-kōji Temple, with all of these in harmony, is a place where new attractions of Kyoto tourism can be discovered, and we would like many people to visit this famous site.
Escaping the bustle of central Kyoto and spending time in the deep mountains of Kyōhoku, contemplating history while savoring the natural beauty—this luxurious experience is the greatest charm of Joshō-kōji Temple. Not only during cherry blossom season but throughout the four seasons, as the temple displays fresh greenery, autumn foliage, and snowy landscapes, please be sure to visit Joshō-kōji Temple at least once.
