Takagamine Jojoji Temple (Kyoto Prefecture) Complete Guide | Highlights, Access, and Autumn Foliage Information of the Temple Associated with Yoshino Tayuu
Jojoji Temple (jōshōji), nestled in the Takagamine (takagamine) area of Kita Ward, Kyoto City, is an ancient temple of the Nichiren sect known for its deep connection with Yoshino Tayuu, a legendary geisha of the Edo period. With the Takagamine Three Mountains as its backdrop, the temple grounds display beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, and it attracts many visitors as a renowned site for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. This article provides detailed information about Jojoji Temple’s history, highlights, access methods, and nearby spots.
History and Origins of Jojoji Temple
The Founding of Honami Koetsu and Jojoji Temple
Jojoji Temple is a Nichiren sect temple founded in Genwa 2 (1616) during the early Edo period. Its mountain name is Jakkōzan, and its principal image enshrines the Three Treasures (Shakyamuni Buddha, Many-Jeweled Buddha, and the Mandala of the Ten Realms). Its former head temple is Kuonji on Mount Minobu, and it belongs to the Shinshi lineage.
The central figure in its founding was Honami Koetsu (honami kōetsu), renowned as an artist. Koetsu received the Takagamine area from Tokugawa Ieyasu and formed an art village. As a devoted believer of the Nichiren sect, Koetsu donated this land to the high priest Jikan Nisshin, and Jojoji Temple was opened.
Takagamine is located in the southwestern part of Kyoto city, at the southern foothills of the Takagamine Three Mountains, comprising Takamine Peak, Washi Peak, and Tenmine Peak. It is positioned outside the earthen fortifications constructed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, in the northwestern part of Nagasaka Gate, one of Kyoto’s Seven Gates, and retains the quiet atmosphere of a mountain village even today.
Role as a Danrin (Seminary)
Jojoji Temple is also known as a “danrin temple.” A danrin was, during the Edo period, a Buddhist seminary and training institution for Nichiren sect priests—in other words, a center for Buddhist learning. Jojoji Temple produced many scholarly monks and made significant contributions to the development of Nichiren sect theology.
This tradition as a place of learning is reflected in the serene atmosphere of the temple grounds, providing visitors with a quiet time.
Deep Connection with Yoshino Tayuu
When discussing Jojoji Temple, the relationship with Yoshino Tayuu (yoshino tayū), a renowned courtesan who flourished in the Shimabara (Kyoto’s pleasure quarter) during the early Edo period, cannot be overlooked.
Yoshino Tayuu was active as the highest-ranking tayuu in Shimabara during the Kan’ei era (1624-1644) and was known for her beauty and refined education. She had deep faith in Jojoji Temple and is said to have donated the vermillion-painted gate. This gate is called the “Yoshino Gate” and remains a symbol of Jojoji Temple today.
Yoshino Tayuu was deeply in love with Haiya Shōeki (haiya shōeki), a wealthy merchant of the time. In the temple grounds, there is a togyo-zuka (lovers’ tomb) of the two, conveying their eternal love to the present day.
Highlights of Jojoji Temple
Yoshino Gate (Main Gate)
The vermillion-painted gate at the entrance of Jojoji Temple is the “Yoshino Gate.” This gate, said to have been donated by Yoshino Tayuu, welcomes many visitors as a representative structure of Jojoji Temple.
In spring, Yoshino cherry blossoms, said to have been donated by Yoshino Tayuu, bloom along the approach path in front of the gate, and the landscape woven by the vermillion gate and pale pink cherry blossoms is dreamlike in its beauty, captivating all who visit. In autumn, autumn foliage adorns the gate, presenting a different charm.
Main Hall and Temple Grounds
Passing through the Yoshino Gate, a quiet approach path leads to the main hall. The temple grounds are not particularly expansive, but the well-maintained garden and trees display different faces with each season, providing tranquility to visitors.
In the main hall, one can pay respects to the Three Treasures, and the solemn atmosphere of a Nichiren sect temple pervades. Walking through the temple grounds, one is enveloped in the serene air that speaks to the temple’s history as a seminary.
Lovers’ Tomb of Yoshino Tayuu and Haiya Shōeki
In the temple grounds, there is a togyo-zuka (lovers’ tomb) of Yoshino Tayuu and Haiya Shōeki. A togyo-zuka is a tomb erected to jointly venerate two people who loved each other.
Haiya Shōeki was a wealthy merchant of Kyoto and was known as a man of culture. The love between the two, transcending social class differences, touched the hearts of people at the time, and many people still visit this tomb to remember the love of these two.
Obi Mound and Relics
In the temple grounds, there is also an obi mound (belt mound) of Yoshino Tayuu, and belts and personal items she used are preserved as temple treasures. These relics serve as valuable materials conveying the pleasure quarter culture of the Edo period to the present day.
Cherry Blossoms and Autumn Foliage at Jojoji Temple
Spring Cherry Blossoms as a Famous Spot
Jojoji Temple is known as one of Kyoto’s premier cherry blossom viewing spots. Particularly, the Yoshino cherry blossoms associated with Yoshino Tayuu dye the approach path pale pink each spring.
The contrast between the vermillion Yoshino Gate and the cherry blossoms is spectacular, and it is also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. The landscape of cherry blossoms with the Takagamine Three Mountains as backdrop is one of the representative scenes of Kyoto’s spring.
Spectacular Autumn Foliage in Fall
Jojoji Temple in autumn is particularly popular as a renowned autumn foliage spot. When the maples and Japanese maples on the grounds change color, a vibrant tunnel of red and yellow foliage appears from the approach path to the main hall.
Mid to late November is the best viewing time, and during this period the admission fee changes from the usual 400 yen to 500 yen. Many tourists visit during the autumn foliage season, but since the Takagamine area is somewhat removed from Kyoto city center, it experiences less crowding than Kinkakuji or Kiyomizudera, allowing visitors to enjoy the autumn foliage relatively leisurely.
Flower Offering Service (Yoshino Tayuu Hana Kuyo)
On the second Sunday of April each year, the “Flower Offering Service” is held to commemorate Yoshino Tayuu. This is the most glamorous annual event among Jojoji Temple’s celebrations.
Shimabara Tayuu Procession
The highlight of the Flower Offering Service is undoubtedly the Shimabara tayuu procession. The tayuu from the present-day Shimabara parade to Jojoji Temple, recreating the glamorous pleasure quarter culture of the Edo period and drawing large crowds of spectators.
The tayuu wear high wooden clogs (three-tooth elevated clogs) and gorgeous outer robes, walking with the distinctive “outside eight-character” gait in an elegant manner. This procession, set against the backdrop of the Takagamine Three Mountains, is truly like a scene from a historical picture scroll.
Wild Tea Ceremony and Buddhist Service
At the Flower Offering Service, a wild tea ceremony (outdoor tea gathering) performed by the tayuu is also held. This is a precious opportunity to receive tea prepared by the tayuu herself, attracting many tea ceremony enthusiasts.
In addition, a solemn Buddhist service to venerate Yoshino Tayuu is held, continuing a tradition that has been carefully preserved since the Edo period.
Admission Information
Admission Hours and Fees
- Admission Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Admission Fee: 400 yen (500 yen during autumn foliage season in November)
- Time Required: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
Since the temple grounds are not particularly expansive, it takes about one hour to walk through leisurely. However, during the autumn foliage season and on the day of the Flower Offering Service, the temple is crowded, so it is recommended to visit with time to spare.
Temple Stamp (Goshuin)
Temple stamps can be obtained at Jojoji Temple. The reception hours are the same as admission hours, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The temple stamp, with the bold brushwork characteristic of Nichiren sect temples, is popular as a memento of your visit.
You can bring your own stamp book or receive a pre-written stamp. Seasonal limited-edition stamps may be issued, so it is good to check when you visit.
Access Methods
Access by Public Transportation
Access to Jojoji Temple is typically by Kyoto City Bus.
From Kitaoji Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line
- Take the Municipal Bus North 1 line (heading to Bukkyo University or Genshaku)
- Get off at the “Takagamine Genkoan-mae” bus stop, approximately 2-3 minutes on foot
From JR Kyoto Station
- Take Municipal Bus 205 or 206 to “Kitaoji Bus Terminal”
- Transfer to Municipal Bus North 1 line at Kitaoji Bus Terminal
- Get off at “Takagamine Genkoan-mae” bus stop, approximately 2-3 minutes on foot
As there are only 2-3 buses per hour, it is recommended to check the bus schedule in advance.
Access by Car and Parking
Jojoji Temple has a parking lot for visitors. However, as the number of spaces is limited, the lot may become full during the autumn foliage season or on the day of the Flower Offering Service.
Route by Car
- Head north on Route 162 (Shuyama Kaido) from Kyoto city center
- Proceed toward the Takagamine area and follow the directional signs
During busy seasons such as autumn foliage, the use of public transportation is recommended.
Nearby Tourist Spots
The Takagamine area contains several appealing temples and tourist attractions besides Jojoji Temple.
Genkoan Temple
A Soto Zen temple located approximately 5 minutes on foot from Jojoji Temple. It is famous for two windows called the “Window of Enlightenment” and the “Window of Confusion,” and the view of autumn foliage through them is known as spectacular. Many people visit this spot in conjunction with Jojoji Temple.
Koetsu Temple
A temple built on the site where Honami Koetsu spent his final years, approximately 10 minutes on foot from Jojoji Temple. The highlights include the bamboo fence “Koetsu Fence” associated with Koetsu and a beautiful garden. It is also popular as an autumn foliage viewing spot.
Imamiya Shrine
Located approximately 2 km south of Takagamine, approximately 25 minutes on foot (or a few minutes by bus), this shrine is known as being associated with Kenshōin, the origin of the phrase “from rags to riches.” The famous “aburimochi” (roasted rice cakes) on the approach path are also renowned.
Kinkakuji (Rokuonji Temple)
Located approximately 3 km southeast of Takagamine, this is one of Kyoto’s representative tourist attractions. The gold-leaf-covered Shariden Hall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site visited by many tourists from Japan and abroad.
Kamigamo Shrine (Kamowakeikazuchi Shrine)
Located approximately 5 km east of Takagamine, this is one of Kyoto’s oldest shrines. It is also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with expansive grounds and beautiful shrine buildings as highlights.
Charm of the Takagamine Area
Takagamine is a quiet mountain village slightly removed from Kyoto city center, with the charm of a setting not overly commercialized for tourism.
An Art Village Associated with Honami Koetsu
The Takagamine area was where Honami Koetsu formed an art village during the early Edo period. Koetsu was a versatile artist—a calligrapher, potter, and lacquerware artisan—who produced many works in this area.
By visiting the temples associated with Koetsu, such as Jojoji Temple, Koetsu Temple, and Genkoan Temple, one can experience the aroma of Edo-period culture and arts.
Nature of the Takagamine Three Mountains
The Takagamine Three Mountains, consisting of Takamine Peak, Washi Peak, and Tenmine Peak, are characterized by gentle, gradual slopes. The landscape of temples with these mountains as backdrop has a unique quality particular to Kyoto.
Takagamine, where you can enjoy natural changes throughout the seasons, offers beautiful scenery whenever you visit—cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter.
Dining and Rest Spots Around Jojoji Temple
Dining Establishments in the Takagamine Area
The Takagamine area is primarily residential with few restaurants, but there are a few recommended spots.
Shozan (Kyoto Shozan Resort)
A complex facility approximately 5 minutes by car from Jojoji Temple, featuring a Japanese cuisine restaurant and café. You can enjoy your meal while viewing a beautiful Japanese garden.
Aburimochi on the Imamiya Shrine Approach
On the approach to Imamiya Shrine, a short distance south of Takagamine, are two aburimochi (roasted rice cake) shops: “Kazariya” and “Isshiki.” You can enjoy the traditional flavor continuing from the Heian period.
Rest and Shopping
The Takagamine area has no large commercial facilities, but if you head back to the Kitaoji area, there are shopping facilities such as Kitaoji Vivre.
For rest after your visit, it is recommended to relax and enjoy the scenery while sitting in the grounds of Genkoan Temple or Koetsu Temple.
Points to Note When Visiting Jojoji Temple
Clothing and Items to Bring
Since Jojoji Temple is in a mountainous area, the temperature may be lower than in the city center. Particularly from fall through winter, be sure to prepare for cold weather.
Some areas of the temple grounds are not paved, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. During the autumn foliage season, especially many people visit, so be careful with the management of cameras and valuables.
Photography Etiquette
Photography is permitted at Jojoji Temple, but please be considerate of other visitors. Particularly around the Yoshino Gate, a popular photography spot, the spirit of mutual consideration is important.
Regarding tripod use, restrictions may apply during crowded times, so please check in advance or follow the instructions of on-site staff.
Best Season
The best time to visit Jojoji Temple is early April when cherry blossoms bloom and mid to late November when autumn foliage is at its finest. Particularly, the Flower Offering Service on the second Sunday of April is a special annual event, so planning a visit around this date is also recommended.
Summer’s fresh greenery and winter’s snowy landscapes are also beautiful, and for those wishing to visit and worship leisurely while avoiding crowds, an off-season visit is also appealing.
Summary of Basic Information for Jojoji Temple
- Official Name: Jakkōzan Jojoji Temple
- Sect: Nichiren Sect
- Principal Image: Three Treasures
- Founded: Genwa 2 (1616)
- Founders: Honami Koetsu, High Priest Jikan Nisshin
- Address: 〒603-8468 1 Takagamine-kita Takagamine-cho, Kita Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Phone Number: 075-492-6775
- Admission Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Admission Fee: 400 yen (500 yen during November autumn foliage season)
- Parking: Available (limited spaces)
- Nearest Bus Stop: Municipal Bus “Takagamine Genkoan-mae” – 2-3 minutes on foot
Conclusion
Jojoji Temple in Takagamine is an appealing temple known for its deep connection with Yoshino Tayuu, a legendary woman of the Edo period; its historical founding by Honami Koetsu; and its beautiful natural scenery changing with the four seasons.
The vermillion Yoshino Gate, spring cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, and the glamorous annual Flower Offering Service are just some of the different aspects the temple presents depending on when you visit. Being located in a quiet mountain village slightly removed from Kyoto city center, it offers the attraction of being able to worship leisurely away from the hustle and bustle.
By visiting nearby Genkoan Temple and Koetsu Temple in addition to Jojoji Temple, you can fully savor the charm of the Takagamine area associated with Honami Koetsu. When visiting Kyoto, please definitely extend your journey to visit Jojoji Temple. You will be able to spend a special time where the culture of the Edo period and the beauty of nature harmonize.
