Kyoto Ninnaji Temple | 2025 Omuro Flower Festival Cherry Blossom Guide 🌸⛩️

#cherryblossom25 When thinking of spring in Kyoto, most people immediately think of the famous cherry blossom spots like Kiyomizu Temple, the Kamo River, or the Philosopher’s Path. But if you're looking for a quieter, more unique experience, the Omuro Flower Festival at Ninnaji Temple should definitely be on your list. It’s one of Kyoto's under-the-radar gems that offers an authentic and charming sakura experience! 🌷✨ Where is Ninnaji Temple and How to Get There? Ninnaji Temple is located in the Ukyo Ward, close to the Arashiyama area. It’s easy to reach with the following options: By Train: Take the Keifuku Electric Railway (Randen), North Line, and get off at the Omuro Ninnaji Station. It’s just a 3-minute walk from the station to the temple. By Bus: From Kyoto Station, you can take Bus No. 26 or the JR West Bus and get off at the Omuro Ninnaji Station — very convenient. When is the Best Time to Visit the Omuro Flower Festival? 🌸🌿 The Omuro Flower Festival runs from March 22 to May 6, 2025 (Golden Week included), but the Omuro Cherry Blossom (Omuro-zakura) blooms later than the usual Somei Yoshino that you’ll see around the city. Blooming Season: Omuro-zakura blossoms about 1 to 2 weeks later than the typical cherry blossoms. Therefore, the best viewing time is from April 10 to 20, when the Omuro-zakura will be in full bloom. By then, the early sakura like the Somei Yoshino will have finished, and you’ll be able to enjoy the soft, short and rounded blooms of the Omuro cherry trees. Tip: If you’re specifically after the Omuro Sakura, try to avoid visiting too early in the season (around the end of March). The best chance to catch the blossoms is in the second week of April. 🌸💕 What Makes the Omuro Flower Festival Special? The Omuro-zakura is a low, bushy tree with rounded blossoms, making it distinct from the taller, traditional sakura varieties you’ll find in other areas. These blooms appear in clusters and are a beautiful sight at Ninnaji Temple’s garden, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors. The temple’s peaceful surroundings, historic buildings, and the soft pink blossoms make for a perfect spring escape away from the crowds. During the festival, you can also experience traditional rituals and enjoy the temple's cultural offerings, including a quiet stroll through the gardens and along the Shingon Buddhist path, with the sakura providing a breathtaking backdrop. 🌸🛤️ #travel