Nanzenji Temple, one of Kyoto’s most prestigious Zen temples, offers an enchanting hanami (cherry blossom viewing) experience. Set against the foothills of the Higashiyama mountains, the temple’s expansive grounds feature historical architecture, picturesque gardens, and a tranquil atmosphere. With about 200 cherry trees adorning its precincts, Nanzenji is a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful yet captivating sakura season experience.

Why Nanzenji is Worth Visiting

• Serene Atmosphere & Fewer Crowds: Spacious temple grounds allow for a peaceful hanami experience, especially in the early morning.
• Meiji-Era Brick Aqueduct: The Suirokaku aqueduct adds a unique Western architectural touch, beautifully juxtaposed with sakura.
• Iconic Sanmon Gate & Views: Climb the historic gate for panoramic views of cherry trees and Kyoto’s skyline.
• Blend of Nature and Zen Aesthetics: Cherry trees complement Zen gardens, stone paths, and mossy landscapes for a harmonious visual.

Nanzenji Cherry Blossoms

Nanzenji’s cherry blossom season typically peaks from late March to early April. The temple showcases a rich variety of cherry trees that enhance its tranquil surroundings. Somei Yoshino, the most abundant variety, creates a soft pink canopy over the temple grounds, giving visitors the classic sakura experience. The graceful shidarezakura, or weeping cherry trees, add an elegant cascading effect, especially near the sub-temples. For those visiting a little later in the season, yaezakura trees bloom into mid-April with their lush, ruffled petals, extending the hanami experience with their deeper pink tones. The temple features a variety of sakura, including:

• Somei Yoshino – The most abundant variety, creating a soft pink canopy over temple grounds.
• Shidarezakura (Weeping Cherry) – These elegant trees, particularly near sub-temples, add a graceful cascading effect.
• Yaezakura (Double-Blossom Cherry) – These later-blooming trees extend the sakura season into mid-April with their rich pink, ruffled petals.

Best Cherry Blossom Viewing & Photography Spots

Among the most scenic spots at Nanzenji is the Sanmon Gate area, where over 100 cherry trees surround the massive wooden structure. The gate offers both ground-level beauty and, for those who climb to the top, sweeping aerial views of the temple and blossoms. Behind the temple lies the picturesque Suirokaku Aqueduct, a red-brick structure from the Meiji era that stands in beautiful contrast to the delicate sakura. Another gem is the tranquil Tenjuan Garden, a sub-temple garden with a reflective pond, mossy paths, and delicate cherry blossoms that make it ideal for peaceful contemplation and photography. Just a short walk away is the Keage Incline, a former railway track that becomes a tunnel of cherry blossoms each spring, while the nearby Philosopher’s Path offers a famous 2-kilometer stroll along a canal, lined with hundreds of sakura trees. Each bend in the path provides new angles and photo opportunities, making it one of the most beloved hanami spots in Kyoto. Just north of Nanzenji, this scenic 2km walkway along a canal is lined with hundreds of cherry trees, making it one of Kyoto’s most famous hanami spots.

Okazaki Canal “Sakura Cruise”

From late March to mid-April, the Okazaki Canal near Nanzenji hosts the “Okazaki Sakura Corridor” cruise. Boats glide under illuminated cherry trees in the evening, creating a romantic atmosphere. Daytime rides operate from 9:30 to 16:30, with special night cruises after sunset. Tickets are available on-site; weekday visits are recommended to avoid crowds.

Facilities & Amenities

Nanzenji features accessible paths, clean public restrooms (including accessible facilities), and signage in English. Some areas like the Sanmon gate and Hojo have entrance fees and closing times (usually 8:40–17:00). Benches are limited but available, and vending machines provide drinks. The atmosphere is respectful and serene, with no yatai stalls on the grounds.

Dining Options

Nanzenji Junsei and Okutan Nanzenji are renowned for their yudofu (tofu hotpot) and traditional Kyoto cuisine, perfect after a temple stroll. Hyotei offers a luxurious Michelin-star kaiseki experience. For casual meals, Gontaro serves soba noodles with a garden view, while Okazaki Saryo Mameda provides beautifully plated Kyoto lunch sets. Blue Bottle Coffee, nearby, offers artisan brews in a stylish setting. For budget meals, Cafe Mumonkan is a cozy local favorite.

Travel Tips

• Timing the Blooms: Visit from late March to mid-April; Somei Yoshino peaks first, followed by yaezakura.
• Best Time of Day: Early morning (6–7am) offers soft light and minimal crowds.
• Avoiding Crowds: Weekday mornings are quietest; explore lesser-known sub-temples.
• What to Bring: Light jacket, comfortable shoes, water, umbrella, and possibly a small tripod.
• Hanami Etiquette: No eating inside temple grounds; maintain quiet and respectful behavior.

How to Get to Nanzenji

From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Karasuma-Oike, transfer to the Tozai Line, and alight at Keage Station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk. Alternatively, take City Bus #5 or Raku Bus #100 to “Nanzenji Eikando-michi”. Cycling is also a scenic option with bike parking near the temple.

Nearby Attractions

• Philosopher’s Path: A 2km cherry blossom-lined canal walk connecting Nanzenji and Ginkaku-ji.
• Eikando Temple: Beautiful temple with cherry trees and a hillside pagoda.
• Murin-an Garden: A quiet Meiji-era garden with spring blooms and a teahouse.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

• Heian Jingu Shrine: Famous for weeping cherries and night illuminations.
• Keage Incline: An iconic cherry-lined slope with old railway tracks.
• Maruyama Park: Offers yatai food stalls and nighttime cherry tree lighting.

Top Image Source: Izu Navi via Flickr, CC by 2.0