What to know
Yoshimizu Shrine (吉水神社, Yoshimizu Jinja), located in the Naka Senbon area of Mount Yoshino, boasts a rich and eventful history. Originally established in the 8th century as a temple, it served as living quarters for practitioners of Shugendo mountain asceticism. Over the centuries, it offered refuge to several prominent historical figures, starting with Minamoto no Yoshitsune, who fled from his brother Yoritomo in the 12th century.
In the 14th century, the shrine became the temporary seat of Emperor Go-Daigo after he established a rival imperial court (the Southern Court) in Yoshino, effectively turning the shrine into an Imperial Palace. Emperor Go-Daigo is still enshrined here today. Additionally, in the 16th century, Yoshimizu Temple hosted Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who held some of his famous cherry blossom viewing parties here.
Converted to a shrine during the Meiji Period's separation of Buddhism and Shinto, Yoshimizu Shrine now displays various treasures in its main building, including historical documents, arms, paintings, and other art objects. The shrine remains a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing and offers excellent, unobstructed views of Yoshino's cherry tree-covered mountain slopes.
Yoshimizu Shrine is a 20-minute walk from the upper station of the Yoshino Ropeway (Yoshinoyama Station).
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- 600 yen (~$3.84)
- English name
- Original name
- Yoshimizu Shrine
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.