Mimurotoji Temple (Uji, Kyoto Prefecture) Complete Guide | Thorough Explanation of Four-Season Flowers and the Charm of the Western Pilgrimage Route
Mimurotoji Temple (mimurotoji), nestled at the foot of Myojosan Mountain in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, is an ancient temple with a history spanning the Nara period, and has welcomed countless worshippers as the Tenth Sacred Place on the Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites of the Western Route. The vast garden “Yorakuen,” spanning approximately 5,000 tsubo (approximately 16,500 square meters), is planted with 20,000 azalea bushes and 10,000 hydrangea plants, gaining popularity as Kyoto’s foremost “Flower Temple,” “Azalea Temple,” and “Hydrangea Temple.” This article comprehensively introduces information you should know before visiting, from the temple’s history and highlights to seasonal flowers, access methods, and viewing information.
History and Heritage of Mimurotoji Temple
Legend of Founding and Beginning in the Nara Period
The founding of Mimurotoji Temple dates back to Hoki 1 (770). According to temple tradition, the temple was opened by the monk Gyouhyou of Daian-ji in Nanto at the imperial request of Emperor Kōnin. In the legend surrounding the temple’s establishment, it is said that a Thousand-Armed Kannon statue appeared from the waterfall basin behind the mountain, and the enshrining of this Kannon image is said to mark the beginning of the temple.
Mimurotoji Temple, opened during the late Nara period—a significant time in Japanese Buddhist history—was initially called Muroodo Temple, but later changed to its present name, Mimurotoji. The mountain name Myojosan also derives from the tradition that the morning star (Venus) shone brightly when the Kannon statue appeared.
Role as the Tenth Sacred Place of the Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites of the Western Route
When the Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites of the Western Route became widespread during the Heian period, Mimurotoji Temple came to hold an important position as the Tenth Sacred Place. The Western Route pilgrimage is known as Japan’s oldest pilgrimage route, and as a faith to accumulate merit by relying on the compassion of the Kannon Bodhisattva, it was supported by a wide range of people from the nobility to the common people.
A pilgrimage boom occurred during the Edo period, and many visitors from across the nation came to Mimurotoji Temple. Even today, it is possible to see pilgrims dressed in white garments, and the tradition of Western Route pilgrimages continues to be passed down. Many worshippers seek goshuin (temple seals), and the Main Hall provides carefully calligraphed goshuin.
Special Head Temple of Honzan Shugen Sect
Mimurotoji Temple holds the status of a special head temple of the Honzan Shugen sect. Shugendo is a unique form of religion that fuses Japan’s ancient mountain worship with Buddhism, aiming to attain enlightenment through rigorous training in the mountains. Located on Myojosan Mountain, Mimurotoji Temple has functioned as a base of Shugendo.
Remnants of homa halls and practice sites characteristic of Shugendo can also be seen throughout the grounds, and various religious services and training continue to be held throughout the year. Particularly, on the 18th of each month, homa offerings are conducted as a monthly memorial day of Kannon, and the wishes of worshippers are made prayers.
Highlights and Cultural Properties of Mimurotoji Temple
Main Hall and Principal Image—Standing Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva
The current Main Hall is a reconstruction from the Edo period, featuring a robust irimoya-style architectural style. Inside the hall is enshrined the principal image, the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva statue, which is opened to the public only on the 17th of each month as a secret Buddha (※may change according to annual events). This Kannon statue is said to have been made during the Heian period, characterized by a compassionate expression and delicate sculptural technique.
The interior sanctuary of the Main Hall is filled with an austere atmosphere, with vividly colored bird-and-flower paintings on the ceiling. Visitors can pay their respects before the Main Hall and pray for the Kannon’s divine protection. From the Main Hall, one can have an overview of the garden, and enjoy the changing scenery with each season.
Treasure Repository with Important Cultural Properties
The Treasure Repository on the grounds houses five Buddhist statues from the Heian to Kamakura periods, enshrined as Important Cultural Properties. These Buddhist statues are precious cultural heritage that speak to the long history of Mimurotoji Temple and are periodically opened to the public.
In particular, the Amida Triad seated statue is a masterpiece conveying the elegant style of the Heian period, with the central Amida Tathagata Buddha at the center and Kannon and Seishi Bodhisattva as attending deities on either side. These Buddhist statues attest to the high level of Buddhist art at the time and prove that Mimurotoji Temple was an influential temple.
Three-Story Pagoda and Temple Buildings
On the east side of the Main Hall stands a three-story pagoda with vivid red coloring. This pagoda is a relatively new structure, but faithfully reproduces the traditional style, adding brilliance to the temple grounds’ landscape. Particularly during the autumn foliage season, the magnificent contrast between the deep red maples with the pagoda in the background and the golden ginkgos is a must-see.
The grounds also feature other structures such as a bell tower, water ablution basin, and homa hall, each forming a well-coordinated arrangement of temple buildings. Walking through the temple grounds and visiting these structures allows one to savor the beauty of traditional Japanese temple architecture.
Lucky Charms and Wish-Making Spots
Mimurotoji Temple has several lucky charms popular with worshippers. Before the Main Hall is a statue of the “Uga God,” a snake-shaped deity, which is believed to grant financial and monetary blessings when touched. Additionally, the stone statues of the “Cow of Victory” and “Blessed Rabbit” are believed to bestow winning fortune and good luck, respectively.
The Blessed Rabbit is particularly unique, with a tradition that if one can stand the gemstone at the base of the rabbit’s statue, one’s wish will come true. It has become a popular spot with many worshippers trying their luck, and has become a topic on social media. Visiting these lucky charm spots has become established as one of the pleasures of worshipping.
The Charm of Kyoto’s Foremost “Flower Temple”
Spring Azalea Garden (Late April to Early May)
The reason Mimurotoji Temple is called the “Azalea Temple” lies in its azalea garden, boasting one of the largest scales in the Kansai region. Approximately 20,000 azalea bushes are planted, including Hirodo azaleas, Kirishima azaleas, and Kurume azaleas, competing to bloom in magnificent display.
The best viewing period is typically from late April to early May, during which the “Azalea Garden” is specially opened. The sight of azaleas covering the hillside in red, pink, white, and purple is breathtaking, creating a landscape as if a brocade tapestry had been laid down. During the azalea blooming period, the temple is crowded with many tourists, and visiting during the early morning quiet hours is recommended.
Walking paths have been installed throughout the azalea garden, allowing one to walk among the flowers. The three-dimensional planting utilizing the elevation changes is beautiful from every angle and is famous as a photography spot.
Early Summer Hydrangea Garden (Early June to Early July)
When June arrives, Mimurotoji Temple transforms into the “Hydrangea Temple.” A garden with approximately 10,000 hydrangea bushes of more than 50 varieties is known as one of western Japan’s premier hydrangea viewing sites. One can enjoy various varieties including Western hydrangea, lacecap hydrangea, and oakleaf hydrangea.
The best viewing period is typically from mid to late June, when the “Hydrangea Garden” is specially opened. Beneath the humid atmosphere unique to the rainy season, blue, purple, pink, and white hydrangeas display an enchanting beauty. Hydrangeas wet with rain are particularly vivid in color, and the flowers can be fully enjoyed even on cloudy or drizzly days.
Night illumination “Hydrangea Illumination” is also held, allowing one to experience a different ethereal atmosphere from daytime. Illuminated hydrangeas appear mystical, making them popular as a dating spot. As the illumination period and times vary by year, it is recommended to check the official website in advance.
Summer Lotus (Late June to Early August)
Overlapping with the hydrangea season, lotus flowers begin to bloom in the temple’s ponds. The sight of approximately 250 pots of colorful lotus flowers arranged in a display is spectacular, offering a rare opportunity to view these flowers, which have deep connections to Buddhism, at a temple.
Lotus flowers open early in the morning and close in the afternoon; therefore, morning visits are essential to see their beautiful appearance. Particularly, the fresh beauty of newly opened flowers is praised as “lotus flower beauty” in ancient traditions. During the lotus blooming period, the temple sometimes opens early in the morning (around 6:30 AM), allowing for the luxury of viewing lotus flowers in the morning silence.
Autumn Foliage (Mid-November to Early December)
The autumn foliage of Mimurotoji Temple has been counted as one of the Twelve Views of Uji since the Edo period under the name “Mimurotoji’s Red Maples.” The sight of the entire temple grounds colored red and yellow is magnificent, with the foliage around the three-story pagoda on the east side of the Main Hall being particularly noteworthy.
The best viewing period is typically from mid-November to early December, with the deep red of the maples and golden ginkgos creating a stunning contrast. The foliage reflected in the garden’s pond is also beautiful, popular with photography enthusiasts as “reflected foliage.”
While the entire Kyoto region becomes crowded during the foliage season, Mimurotoji Temple, located slightly away from central Kyoto, allows for relatively leisurely foliage viewing. Early morning or weekday visits enable quieter viewing.
The Charm of Yorakuen (Garden)
The “Yorakuen” garden of Mimurotoji Temple spans approximately 5,000 tsubo (approximately 16,500 square meters) and is a comprehensive garden combining three elements: dry landscape, pond-circuit promenade style, and open grounds. Organized from the Edo period through the Meiji period, this garden displays different faces throughout the four seasons.
The garden’s design skillfully utilizes the natural terrain, with a characteristic three-dimensional landscape composition utilizing slopes. The elevation-based arrangement allows the garden to be viewed from various angles, with new discoveries to be found with each stroll.
In the pond area, brocade carp swim, and elegant scenery spreads with arched bridges and lanterns placed throughout. The dry landscape portion expresses Zen tranquility, making it an ideal space for meditation and quieting the heart. The open grounds where seasonal flowers bloom are bright and open, providing solace to visitors.
Access Methods to Mimurotoji Temple
Access by Train
When Using Keihan Railway (Most Recommended)
- Approximately 15 minutes walk from “Mimurotoji Station” on the Keihan Uji Line
- From the station to the temple is a gentle uphill, with guide signs posted along the way
- From central Kyoto, take the Keihan Main Line to Chushojima Station and transfer to the Uji Line
When Using JR
- Approximately 30 minutes walk from “Uji Station” on the JR Nara Line, or approximately 10 minutes by taxi
- Due to the distance from Uji Station, taxi use is convenient
- Taxi fare is approximately 1,000 yen
Access by Car and Parking
By Automobile
- Approximately 3 minutes from “Uji East IC” on the Kyoto-Shiga Bypass
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Uji West IC” on the Kyoto-Shiga Bypass
- Also accessible from Route 24
Parking Information
- Capacity: 300 passenger cars, 10 buses
- Parking fee: 500 yen for passenger cars, 2,000 yen for buses
- During flower blooming periods (azalea and hydrangea seasons), congestion is expected; early arrival is recommended
- On weekends and holidays, parking may be full by late morning; consider using public transportation
Access by Bus
Buses from within Kyoto City and Uji City are also available; however, as the number of routes is limited, it is recommended to confirm the timetable in advance. Keihan Bus and JR Bus operate services, with “Mimurotoji Temple” being the nearest bus stop.
Viewing Information (Viewing Hours and Admission Fees)
Viewing Hours
Regular Period (April 1 to October 31)
- 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (reception until 4:30 PM)
Winter Period (November 1 to March 31)
- 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM (reception until 4:00 PM)
Special Opening Periods (Azalea, Hydrangea, Lotus)
- 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (final reception)
- During hydrangea illumination periods: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM (reception until 8:30 PM)
※Closed December 29 through December 31
※Opening periods may change depending on blooming conditions
Admission Fees
Regular Admission Fees
- Adults: 500 yen
- Children (elementary and middle school): 300 yen
During Azalea, Hydrangea, and Lotus Garden Opening Periods
- Adults: 1,000 yen
- Children (elementary and middle school): 500 yen
Hydrangea Illumination
- Adults: 1,000 yen
- Children (elementary and middle school): 500 yen
Group Discount
- Discount available for 30 or more people (details available at the temple office)
Other Fees
- Goshuin (temple seal): 300 yen
- Treasure Repository viewing: Additional fee may be required in some cases
- Photography: Permitted for personal use (tripod use is prohibited)
Annual Events and Activities
Various Buddhist services are held at Mimurotoji Temple throughout the year.
Major Annual Events
- January 1–3: Shusho-e Service
- February 3: Setsubun Festival
- Fourth Sunday in April: Flower Festival (Shakadatanjo-e)
- 18th of each month: Kannon Memorial Day and Homa Offering
- August 9: Thousand-Day Pilgrimage (said to accumulate merit equivalent to 46,000 days)
- Second Sunday in November: Autumn Foliage Festival
- December 31: New Year’s Eve Bell
During these events, special religious services are conducted, and some are open for worshipper participation. Particularly, the Thousand-Day Pilgrimage is an important event attracting many visitors.
Tourist Attractions Around Mimurotoji Temple
Byodo-in Hoodo Hall
Located approximately 2 km from Mimurotoji Temple, Byodo-in is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its design on the 10-yen coin. The Hoodo Hall built by Fujiwara no Yorimichi is a masterpiece of Japanese Heian architecture and is a must-see Uji spot to visit along with Mimurotoji Temple.
Ujigami Shrine
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ujigami Shrine is known as Japan’s oldest shrine building. The main hall is from the late Heian period and is designated as a National Treasure. While not within walking distance of Mimurotoji Temple, it is worth visiting as part of Uji sightseeing.
Uji River and Uji Bridge
The walking path along the Uji River offers beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons, particularly stunning during cherry blossom season in spring and autumn foliage season. Uji Bridge is counted among Japan’s three oldest bridges and holds high historical value. Along the river are numerous tea houses and restaurants where Uji tea can be enjoyed.
Koshoji Temple
Koshoji, a Soto Zen temple, is famous for its beautiful approach path called “Koto-zaka” (Harp Slope). Known as a foliage viewing spot, its autumn leaves can be enjoyed together with Mimurotoji’s foliage.
Uji Cuisine and Uji Tea Experience
Uji is a representative tea region in Japan, and it is recommended to enjoy cuisine featuring Uji tea when visiting Mimurotoji Temple.
Uji Matcha Sweets
Numerous tea houses operated by long-established tea merchants surround Uji Station, where authentic matcha parfaits, matcha ice cream, matcha soba noodles, and more can be enjoyed. Famous establishments include Nakamura Tokichi Honten, Ito Kyuemon, and Tsujiri, each offering unique matcha sweets.
Summer-season shaved ice and winter warm matcha zenzai are particularly popular seasonal menu items. Special matcha sweets also appear for commemorative occasions such as Valentine’s Day and White Day.
Uji Tea Soba and Regional Cuisine
Uji tea soba is also a regional specialty, characterized by its green-colored noodles. Additionally, eel dishes and kaiseki cuisine using Kyoto vegetables allow visitors to experience Kyoto’s unique food culture.
Souvenirs
Uji tea, matcha confections, and tea utensils are representative souvenirs of Uji. Numerous souvenir shops are available at the temple gate and around Uji Station, where high-quality Uji tea products can be purchased.
Accommodation Information in Uji
Various accommodation facilities, including traditional inns, hotels, and guesthouses, are available in the Mimurotoji Temple area and throughout Uji City. Traditional inns along the Uji River allow visitors to enjoy the sound of the river’s murmuring while savoring Kyoto cuisine, providing leisurely moments.
Staying in Kyoto City hotels and visiting as a day trip is also possible; however, staying in Uji allows for early morning visitation to Mimurotoji Temple and flower viewing without crowds. Particularly, when utilizing early morning lotus openings, nearby accommodation is convenient.
Etiquette and Precautions for Worship
Dress and Belongings
Mimurotoji Temple is located on a mountain slope, with stairs and inclined paths throughout the grounds. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. On rainy days especially, the ground becomes slippery and caution is necessary.
During flower blooming periods, strong sunlight may be present; sunhats, parasols, and sunscreen are advised. Additionally, bring drinking water for hydration.
Photography Etiquette
Photography within the temple grounds is permitted for personal use, but tripod use is prohibited. Consider other worshippers and avoid prolonged shooting, particularly during crowded times. Interior photography of the Main Hall may be prohibited; please follow posted guidance.
Other Precautions
- The grounds are non-smoking
- Pets are generally not permitted (except service dogs)
- Please remove trash or dispose of it in designated areas
- Refrain from damaging or collecting plants
- Maintain quietness and consideration for other worshippers
Tips for Maximizing Enjoyment of Mimurotoji Temple’s Charm
Selecting Visiting Periods
Mimurotoji Temple holds different charms in each season; however, the most popular period is hydrangea season (June). Crowding is expected during this time, making weekday or early morning visits recommended.
To visit during less crowded times, mid-May between azalea and hydrangea seasons, or October before autumn foliage, are ideal. Winter has fewer flowers but offers the charm of leisurely worship in a serene setting.
Estimated Time Required
When leisurely exploring the grounds and viewing flowers, plan for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Photography enthusiasts or those receiving goshuin should allow additional time.
When combining with other Uji tourist spots such as Byodo-in, plan a half-day to full-day itinerary.
Crowd-Avoidance Tips
- Visit immediately after opening, early in the morning
- Select weekdays
- Avoid peak seasons (hydrangea and autumn foliage)
- Choose rainy or cloudy days (hydrangeas are particularly beautiful in rain)
Mimurotoji Temple Basic Information Summary
Temple Name: Mimurotoji (mimurotoji)
Mountain Name: Myojosan
Sect: Honzan Shugen Sect, Special Head Temple
Principal Image: Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva
Sacred Place: Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites of the Western Route, Number 10
Founding: Hoki 1 (770)
Founder: Gyouhyou
Address: 〒611-0013 Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, Usagi-dou Shigaya 21
Phone: 0774-21-2067
Official Website: https://www.mimurotoji.com/
Access:
- 15 minutes walk from “Mimurotoji Station” on Keihan
- 10 minutes by taxi from JR “Uji Station”
- 3 minutes by car from “Uji East IC” on Kyoto-Shiga Bypass
Viewing Hours:
- April–October: 8:30 AM–4:30 PM
- November–March: 8:30 AM–4:00 PM
Admission Fees:
- Regular period: Adults 500 yen, Children 300 yen
- Flower blooming period: Adults 1,000 yen, Children 500 yen
Parking: Available (300 passenger car spaces, 500 yen fee)
Conclusion
Mimurotoji Temple, located in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, is the Tenth Sacred Place on the Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage Sites of the Western Route with a history spanning over 1,200 years, and continues to captivate visitors with beautiful scenery unique to each season as the “Flower Temple.” The approximately 5,000-tsubo grand garden displays spring azaleas, early summer hydrangeas, summer lotus, and autumn foliage, earning its reputation as one of western Japan’s premier flower viewing sites, beloved by numerous tourists and worshippers.
Since its founding in the Nara period, Mimurotoji Temple has served as both a sacred site of Kannon faith and a base of Shugendo, holding high historical and cultural value, with abundant attractions including Important Cultural Property Buddhist statues and an Edo period Main Hall. The lucky charms and wish-making spots scattered throughout the grounds are also popular, adding to the joy of worship.
With convenient access—a 15-minute walk from Keihan Mimurotoji Station and just minutes from the Kyoto-Shiga Bypass—visiting can easily be combined with other Uji tourist spots. Uji-specific cuisine and souvenirs are abundant, allowing for a full day of leisurely enjoying Uji’s charms.
Why not fully savor traditional Japanese culture and natural beauty at Mimurotoji Temple, adorned by four-season flowers? As the landscape changes entirely with each visiting season, discoveries await with each visit. In the temple’s serene grounds, find moments to quiet your heart and encounter the Kannon’s compassion.
