Hike to Ohara in Kyoto

Ohara is a rustic, tranquil village surrounded by mountains in the northern part of Kyoto City. It takes about 35 minutes by bus from Demachi‑yanagi Station.

I visited Ohara with my wife yesterday. The weather was cloudy and a little cool. We got off the bus at Hanajiri‑bashi, the southern end of Ohara, and we were the only passengers to get off there. Our plan was to enjoy the cherry blossoms along the Takano River and hike through the village. We didn’t see any other hikers until we reached the approach to Sanzen‑in Temple.

Contrary to our expectations, Ohara was rather quiet except around Sanzen‑in Temple.



along the Takano River







Sanzen‑in Temple is the most famous and largest temple in Ohara. It stands on the eastern side of the village, partway up the mountainside. There were many foreign tourists there.

  


Sanzen-in

The approach to Sanzen-in

in front of the main gate

Main gate


Warabe Jizou

Warabe Jizou

the approach to Sanzen-in


Jyakkou‑in Temple was founded in 594 by Prince Shōtoku. It is located on the western hillside of Ohara and is well known as the place where Kenreimon‑in lived in seclusion. Kenreimon‑in Tokuko (1155–1213) was the tragic young mother of Emperor Antoku.
 


On the way to Jyakkou-in

The main gate of Jyakkou-in

The main temple from the gate

諸行無常の鐘楼 The belfry of impermanence

孤雲の門 the gate of Koun (tea hut)

The approach to the grave of Kenreimon-in Tokuko



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