Complete Guide to Mimuroto-ji Temple: Enjoying the Seasons at the Flower Temple in Uji, Kyoto – The 10th Temple of the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage
Located on the slopes of Mt. Myojo in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture, Mimuroto-ji Temple is a special head temple of the Honzan Shugendo sect with a history of approximately 1200 years. Not only does it attract many pilgrims as the 10th temple of the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage, but it is also known as the “Flower Temple” and “Hydrangea Temple,” where visitors can enjoy beautiful flowers throughout the seasons.
This article comprehensively introduces everything you need to know before visiting Mimuroto-ji Temple, including its history, highlights, seasonal flowers, visiting information, and access methods.
History and Origins of Mimuroto-ji Temple
Origin of its Founding and the Miracle of the First Year of Hoki
The founding of Mimuroto-ji Temple dates back to the first year of Hoki (770 AD). According to temple tradition, the temple was founded by Gyōhyō, a monk from Daian-ji Temple in Nara, at the behest of Emperor Kōnin.
The catalyst for its founding was a miraculous event: a golden, shining statue of the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva appeared from a rocky outcrop in the mountains (the rocky outcrop of Shizugawa). Upon hearing of this miracle, Emperor Kōnin ordered the construction of a temple with this Kannon statue as the principal image, and Mimuroto-ji Temple was founded on the mountainside of Myōjō-zan.
An Ancient Temple Revered by the Imperial Family and Nobility
Since its founding, Mimuroto-ji Temple has attracted the reverence of the imperial family and nobility, and its temple buildings and structures were developed. During the Heian period, as Kannon worship spread and it became established as a sacred site on the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage, the number of commoners seeking spiritual blessings increased, and the temple flourished greatly.
The current main hall was rebuilt in 1805 (Bunka 2) and preserves the architectural style of the Edo period. Despite experiencing numerous fires and wars throughout its long history, Mimuroto-ji Temple has been preserved as a place of faith and remains a sacred site visited by many pilgrims as the tenth temple on the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage.
Mimuroto-ji Temple Grounds and Main Buildings
Main Hall (Kannon Hall)
Built in 1805 (Bunka 2), the main hall is the central building of Mimuroto-ji Temple. The principal image, the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva, is enshrined inside a shrine as a hidden Buddha. While the principal image is usually not open to the public, it can be viewed during special exhibitions.
In front of the main hall is a spacious stone staircase, and the view of the temple grounds from there changes with the seasons, captivating visitors.
Three-Storied Pagoda
Built during the Edo period, the three-storied pagoda is a symbolic presence on the temple grounds. The vibrant vermilion pagoda harmonizes with the surrounding greenery and seasonal flowers, creating a picturesque and beautiful landscape. Especially during the autumn foliage season, the combination of the autumn leaves and the three-story pagoda is magnificent.
Amida Hall
The Amida Hall houses a seated statue of Amida Triad, created during the Heian period. This statue is a valuable cultural asset exhibiting characteristics of the Fujiwara period, and its serene expression and graceful form soothe the hearts of visitors.
Treasure Hall
The Treasure Hall houses valuable cultural assets, including a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha from the Kamakura period, known as the oldest standing Shakyamuni Buddha statue in the Seiryoji style in Japan, as well as Buddhist paintings and statues from the Fujiwara period. It is open to the public on the 17th of every month and is a must-see for anyone interested in Buddhist art.
Sites Associated with The Tale of Genji
Next to the bell tower on the temple grounds is the site of the “Ukifune” chapter of The Tale of Genji. Uji is known as the setting of The Tale of Genji, and Mimuroto-ji Temple is a place deeply connected to the world of the story, making it a popular spot for literature fans. ## The Four Seasons of Mimuroto-ji Temple, the “Temple of Flowers”
The main reason Mimuroto-ji Temple is called the “Temple of Flowers” is because of the flowers that bloom in its vast 5,000-tsubo (approximately 16,500 square meters) garden throughout the four seasons. Here is a guide to the flowers of Mimuroto-ji Temple, which are worth visiting in every season.
Spring: Weeping Plum and Rhododendrons (February-April)
From early spring, February to March, the approximately 250 weeping plum trees planted on the temple grounds reach their peak bloom. The sight of the red and white plum blossoms competing for attention is a beautiful scene that heralds the arrival of spring in a season that is still chilly.
In April, the rhododendrons begin to bloom. The large, magnificent flowers of the rhododendrons captivate visitors.
Early Summer: Azaleas (Late April-May)
From late April to May, the garden of Mimuroto-ji Temple is one of the most vibrant seasons. Approximately 20,000 Hirado and Kurume azaleas bloom simultaneously, enveloping the entire garden in a vibrant tapestry of red, pink, and white.
The sight of this carpet of azaleas is breathtaking, attracting many photography enthusiasts and tourists. During the peak blooming season, the “Azalea Garden” is specially opened to the public, allowing visitors to stroll through the garden and enjoy the beauty of the azaleas.
Rainy Season: Hydrangeas (June)
Mimuroto-ji Temple became nationally known as the “Hydrangea Temple” during the hydrangea season in June. Approximately 20,000 hydrangea plants of about 50 varieties fill the garden, their blue, purple, pink, and white blossoms coloring the rainy season.
The “Hydrangea Garden” boasts one of the largest scales in the Kansai region, offering a diverse range of varieties including Western hydrangeas, lacecap hydrangeas, and oakleaf hydrangeas. Nighttime illuminations are also held, making it a popular spot for viewing hydrangeas in a magical atmosphere.
The best time to see hydrangeas is usually from early to late June, and the temple is especially crowded with visitors during this period.
Midsummer: Lotus (July-August)
From July to August, approximately 250 lotus plants bloom in the lotus garden in front of the main hall. The pure beauty of the lotus flowers, which open in the early morning, creates a sacred atmosphere befitting a Buddhist temple.
During the lotus blooming season, a “Lotus Sake Tasting Event” is sometimes held, offering a refined experience of drinking sake using lotus leaves as cups. This lotus sake has long been considered beneficial for health and is a popular event among participants.
Autumn: Autumn Leaves (November-December)
Mimuroto-ji Temple is also a hidden gem for viewing autumn leaves. From mid-November to early December, the maple and other trees in the temple grounds change color, and the garden is adorned with vibrant red and yellow foliage.
The combination of the three-story pagoda and autumn leaves is particularly beautiful, allowing visitors to enjoy the autumn foliage in a tranquil atmosphere. It’s less crowded than the hydrangea season, making it an ideal time to leisurely enjoy the autumn scenery.
Mimuroto-ji Temple’s Goshuin (temple stamp) and Pilgrimage
The 10th Temple of the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage
Mimuroto-ji Temple is the 10th temple of the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage, attracting many pilgrims. The Saigoku Thirty-Three Pilgrimage is known as Japan’s oldest pilgrimage route, and the journey to sacred sites of Kannon worship is a tradition that dates back to the Heian period.
At Mimuroto-ji Temple, as a pilgrimage site, you can pay your respects to the principal image, the Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva, and receive a Goshuin (temple stamp).
Types of Goshuin
In addition to the regular Goshuin, Mimuroto-ji Temple also offers seasonal limited-edition Goshuin. In particular, the seasonal Goshuin (temple stamp) called “Wagen” (和顔) is popular for its design featuring flowers of the four seasons.
Goshuin can be obtained at the Nokyo-sho (sutra copying office) in front of the main hall. In addition to having your Goshuin book stamped, pre-printed Goshuin are also available.
Visiting Information and Annual Events
Visiting Hours
- Regular Season (November-March): 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Gates close at 4:30 PM)
- Summer Season (April-October): 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Gates close at 5:00 PM)
*Please check the official website in advance as hours may change depending on the season and events.
Admission Fees
- Regular Admission Fee: Adults 500 yen, Children 300 yen
- During Hydrangea Garden, Azalea Garden, and Rhododendron Garden Opening Period: Adults 1,000 yen, Children 500 yen
- Treasure Hall Admission (17th of each month): Adults 500 yen, Children 300 yen (separate from regular admission fee)
*Fees are subject to change, so please check the latest information before visiting.
Main Annual Events
Mimuroto-ji Temple holds various events throughout the year.
- January 1st: Shusho-e (New Year’s Day prayer)
- February-March: Weeping Plum Garden Opens
- April-May: Azalea and Rhododendron Garden Opens
- June: Hydrangea Garden Opens, Hydrangea Illumination
- July: Lotus Garden Opens, Lotus Sake Tasting Event
- November-December: Autumn Foliage Season
- 17th of Every Month: Special Opening of the Treasure Hall
For details on these events and special openings, please check the official website and information of Mimuroto-ji Temple.
Access Method
Address
21 Shigatani, Uji-shi, Kyoto 611-0013
Access by Train
Using Keihan Railway
- Get off at “Mimuroto Station” on the Keihan Uji Line, approximately 15 minutes on foot
- Walk up a gentle slope from the station. There are guide signs along the way, so you can arrive without getting lost.
Using JR
- Get off at JR Nara Line “Uji Station,” then walk for about 30 minutes or take a taxi for about 5 minutes.
- Since it’s a bit of a distance from Uji Station, taking a taxi is recommended.
Access by Car
- Keiji Bypass: About 3 minutes from Uji-Higashi IC
- Parking: Paid parking available (capacity about 300 cars)
- Passenger cars: 500 yen
- Buses: 2,000 yen
*During peak seasons such as hydrangea season, the parking lot can get crowded, so we recommend using public transportation.
Tourist Spots Around Mimuroto-ji Temple
When visiting Mimuroto-ji Temple, we recommend also visiting other tourist spots in the Uji area.
Byodo-in Temple
Byodo-in Temple, a World Heritage Site, is famous for its Phoenix Hall, which is also featured on the 10-yen coin. It’s about a 10-minute drive from Mimuroto-ji Temple and within walking distance from Uji Station. ### Ujigami Shrine
Ujigami Shrine, a World Heritage Site, is known as the oldest shrine architecture in Japan. You can feel the history in a tranquil atmosphere.
Around the Uji River
Along the Uji River, you’ll find many long-established Uji tea shops and restaurants. Enjoying sweets and dishes made with Uji matcha while strolling along is highly recommended.
Points to Note When Visiting Mimuroto-ji Temple
Aim for the Best Time
Mimuroto-ji Temple offers beautiful flowers throughout the seasons, but the most popular times are the hydrangea season in June and the azalea season in May. While it can get crowded during these times, the breathtaking scenery is well worth the effort.
On the other hand, the autumn foliage season and plum blossom season are relatively less busy, making them ideal for those who want to avoid crowds.
Early Morning Visit Recommended
Especially if you want to enjoy the lotus flowers, an early morning visit is best. Lotuses open in the morning and close in the afternoon, so visiting in the morning allows you to see them at their most beautiful.
Furthermore, early mornings are less crowded, allowing for a peaceful and leisurely visit.
Wear comfortable clothing
Mimuroto-ji Temple is located on a mountainside, and the temple grounds have stone steps and slopes. Also, some areas of the garden are covered in dirt and gravel, so it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
Photography Etiquette
Mimuroto-ji Temple is a popular photo spot, but there are areas where photography is prohibited, such as inside the main hall. Please follow the signs and enjoy taking photos while being considerate of other visitors.
Summary: The Charms of Mimuroto-ji Temple, Enjoyable Throughout the Seasons
Mimuroto-ji Temple, with its approximately 1200-year history, is the tenth temple on the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage. Beyond its value as a place of faith, it is also one of Kyoto’s leading tourist spots, known as the “Temple of Flowers,” where you can enjoy beautiful flowers throughout the seasons.
Founded in 877 AD by the imperial decree of Emperor Kōnin, Mimuroto-ji Temple is a historic temple that has been revered by the imperial family and nobility, and continues to attract many pilgrims and tourists today.
Mimuroto-ji Temple offers a different view in every season: weeping plum blossoms in spring, azaleas in early summer, hydrangeas in the rainy season, lotus flowers in midsummer, and autumn leaves. In particular, June, when approximately 20,000 hydrangea bushes are in full bloom, offers a breathtaking spectacle worthy of its nickname, “Hydrangea Temple.”
It’s easily accessible, about a 15-minute walk from Keihan Mimuroto Station, making it ideal for a visit in conjunction with sightseeing in the Uji area. There are plenty of sights to see, including the main hall, the three-story pagoda, the Amida Hall, the precious Buddhist statues and paintings housed in the Treasure Hall, and its historical value as a site associated with The Tale of Genji.
As one of the 33 temples on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, and as a “flower temple” where visitors can admire seasonal blossoms, Mimuroto-ji Temple is a special place that offers peace of mind and the beauty of nature to its visitors. When you visit Kyoto or Uji, be sure to stop by Mimuroto-ji Temple and experience its charm for yourself.
