Jōshōkō-ji, Buddhist temple in Ukyo-ku, Japan
Jōshōkō-ji is a Buddhist temple situated on Mount Daiyumei featuring a traditional pond garden with cherry trees and Japanese architecture spread across multiple buildings. The structures rest on different levels of the grounds and work together to create a balanced composition.
The temple was founded in 1362 by Emperor Go-Kogon, who selected this location during the turbulent Northern and Southern Courts period. The establishment occurred in an era of political division that marked this chapter of Japanese history.
The temple houses wooden statues of Amida Buddha and attendants carved during the late Heian period, now recognized as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
The temple is accessible by bus from Kyoto Station with transfers required to reach the location. Visitors should plan for longer travel times and check current bus schedules before making the trip.
The temple grounds feature the Kuroe-zakura cherry tree, protected as a Natural Monument of Japan. This remarkable tree produces both single and double-petaled blossoms on the same branches.
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