Cherry Blossoms 2009: Kyoto Report (4/1)

Cherry Blossom Report 2009
by japan-guide.com

This is the official japan-guide.com cherry blossom report for 2009. Please visit also our guide to cherry blossoms for more general information and forecasts.

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2009/04/01 - Kyoto Report

by francois

Daigoji Temple
April 1, 2009 - approaching full bloom (50-80%)

Daigoji Temple consists of three paid entry area: the main temple area (which includes the Kondo and the five-story pagoda), the Sanbo-in temple area and the Reihokan museum. The branches of cherry trees cascade over the paths that connect the three areas, and the first two areas have some impressive trees on their grounds.

Currently the most impressive trees at Daigoji Temple are the weeping cherry trees inside the Sanbo-in area. They are now at full bloom (mankai), while most other cherry trees are between 50% and 60%.

Philosopher's Path
April 1, 2009 - approaching full bloom (50-80%)

The Philosopher's Path runs between Ginkakuji Temple in the north and Nanzenji Temple in the south. It is a pleasant walking path that runs alongside a canal.

The cherry trees along the Philosopher's Path are now between 50% and 60%, with some areas being near full bloom (mankai). A section near the southern end of the path is the most developed, with the most impressive overhead of blooming flowers.

Kiyomizudera Temple
April 1, 2009 - opening (10-50%)

Kiyomizudera Temple is one of Kyoto's most popular temples. There is almost always a steady flow of tourists visiting the temple. The branches of cherry trees extend up under the temple's famous wooden terrace. Other trees are located around the complex.

At the moment, the cherry trees at Kiyomizudera Temple are still not very developed. The cherry blossoms are only about 30% open. The most impressive trees in the area are located outside the temple at the stairs leading to Chawan-zaka, just to the right of the main approach.