Yoshimine-dera

Yoshimine-dera is a Buddhist temple in Nishikyō Ward spreading across a forested mountainside. Several prayer halls and pavilions stand along curved paths that wind through gardens with maple, cherry trees, and flowers.

A Buddhist monk founded this complex in 1029, and five years later it received imperial recognition. Over the centuries it became an important station on the western pilgrimage route dedicated to Kannon worship.

The name comes from the monk Yoshimune, who lived and taught here during the 11th century. Today you see pilgrims walking along the stone lanterns and praying before the Kannon statue in the main hall, often holding handwritten wooden prayer tablets.

You can reach the site by taking the bus from Hankyu Higashi-Muko Station to the final stop, then walking uphill for eight minutes. The paths on the grounds include steps and small slopes, so bring sturdy shoes and some stamina.

A large five-needle pine has stood on the grounds for 600 years, spreading its branches up to 37 meters (121 feet) across. The tree holds the status of a Natural Monument and looks like a green canopy over part of the temple garden.

Location: Nishikyō Ward

Inception: 1023

Part of: Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, site sacré de Kyoto Rakusai Kannon, Shinbutsu Reijō Junpai no Michi

Address: 京都市西京区大原野小塩町1372

Phone: +81753310020

Website: http://yoshiminedera.com

GPS coordinates: 34.93817,135.64420

Latest update: December 20, 2025 15:38