After the cherry blossoms fall, successive waves of spring flowers vie for our attentions. At Matsuo Taisha bright gold kerria, known as "yamabuki" in Japanese, are in full bloom right now. We went to see them last year, but for some reason I never got around to posting the pictures - until now. Matsuo Taisha, (formally called Matsu-no-O Taisha), is said to have … [Read more...] about Kerria at Matsuo Taisha
Omuro Sakura at Ninna-ji Temple
This year's cherry blossom season was basically a washout, with many hanami parties cancelled because of the incessant rain. Ninna-ji Temple in western Kyoto, has a special variety of cherry blossom that blooms later than most, but when it was at its best last week, the rain was still coming down. Mewby and I resolved to defy the weather and visit the temple anyway. At least, I … [Read more...] about Omuro Sakura at Ninna-ji Temple
Regarding the Cherry Blossoms in Okazaki, Kyoto
Just over a year ago I took a walk in Okazaki just before the cherry blossoms bloomed, and recorded my thoughts for the book Deep Kyoto: Walks. I was primarily focused on the architecture of the area, a lot of which dates from the Meiji era. Throughout my walk though I was very conscious of those cherry blossom buds which were "just about to pop". So a week later I went back … [Read more...] about Regarding the Cherry Blossoms in Okazaki, Kyoto
Cherry Blossoms on Shimbashi, Kyoto
To the south of Shinmonzen, running east to west is Shimbashi-dori Street, probably the prettiest street in all of Gion. This flagstoned strolling area bordered with traditional buildings and willow trees follows the course of the Shirakawa canal. At its best in the cherry blossom season, it is still a delightful area in any season for a daytime stroll or an evening … [Read more...] about Cherry Blossoms on Shimbashi, Kyoto
Fire Ceremony & Kyōgen Performance at Seiryō-ji on March 15th
Many temples hold special ceremonies on March 15th to commemorate the Buddha's death, or passing into Nirvana (Nehan 涅槃 in Japanese). One of the more spectacular and eventful commemorations is at Seiryō-ji temple in Saga. There are a number of reasons why you might want to attend this particular event. On this day only, entry to the temple interior is free. It has a … [Read more...] about Fire Ceremony & Kyōgen Performance at Seiryō-ji on March 15th
