Map
Located in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture, this is a temple of the Honzan Shugen sect, formally named Myojozan Mimurotoji. It is known as Temple No. 10 of the Saigoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage and is also affectionately called the 'Hydrangea Temple.' Its vast 5,000-tsubo garden, Yorakuen, can be enjoyed with flowers all year round, and the 10,000 hydrangea plants that bloom in June are spectacular.
Temple Info
- Sect
- Honzan Shugen school
- Principal Image
- Thousand-Armed Kannon (hidden image, not normally on public view)
- Founded
- Said to date from the Hoki era (770-781)
History & Origins
The temple is said to have been founded during the Hoki era (770 to 781). Its principal image, the Thousand-armed Kannon Bodhisattva, is a hidden Buddha and was opened to view in 2009 (the 21st year of Heisei) for the first time in 84 years. It has long welcomed pilgrims as Temple No. 10 of the Saigoku 33 pilgrimage and is well regarded as a sacred site where faith and natural beauty are in harmony.
Highlights
In Yorakuen, you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons: azaleas and rhododendrons in May, hydrangeas (10,000 plants) in June, lotus in July and autumn leaves. The grounds also hold the Juhachi Shrine, designated an Important Cultural Property. It is an essential sacred site for Saigoku pilgrims, and goshuin are available.
Visitor Guide
About a 15-minute walk from Mimuroto Station on the Keihan Uji Line. Visiting hours vary by season, and the admission fee is around 500 yen for adults (it may be higher during the hydrangea and autumn leaves seasons). Allow about 60 to 90 minutes. Timing your visit to the garden's peak is recommended.
Best Season
The June hydrangea season is the most popular, and the Ajisai-en, where 10,000 plants bloom at once, is a stunning sight.
Annual Events
- June
Ajisai-en Opening (Hydrangea Garden)
The Hydrangea Garden of Yorakuen opens, and 10,000 hydrangea plants are at their best.
- July
Lotus Blooming
The lotuses in the garden bloom, and a refreshing view spreads out.
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