What to know
Sakuramotobo (櫻本坊, Sakuramotobō), like other temples around Yoshino, is a center of Shugendo mountain worship. Founded some 1350 years ago, it was built by Emperor Tenmu on the spot where he dreamt of a beautiful cherry tree in full bloom in the middle of winter, a vision that foretold his ascension to the throne. Several cherry trees surround the temple, but the centerpiece is a large weeping cherry tree.
The temple's main object of worship is a statue of En no Gyoja, the founder of Shugendo. Several other statues and paintings depict him together with his two demon (oni) attendants, and can be seen around the temple grounds. Many statues have English signs explaining who they represent and providing context for visitors. Twice a year, from early to mid April and again from mid to late November, the temple holds a special exhibition where visitors can view an image of a seated historical Buddha.
Sakuramotobo is a 25-minute walk from the upper station of the Yoshino Ropeway (Yoshinoyama Station).
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 8:30 to 16:00
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- 500 yen (~$3.2)
- English name
- Original name
- Sakuramotobo Temple
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.