Learn about Ninnaji Temple

History of Ninnaji temple

Ninnaji Temple is the head temple of the Omuro school of the Shingon Sect of Buddhism. There are many temples belonging to the Omuro school all around Japan, and many priests of these temples come to Ninnaji to take part in Buddhist services, and to study and train at the head temple of their sect.Ninnaji Temple was founded in 888 AD, so this prestigious temple has a very long history. Since its founding, Ninnaji has housed and protected countless national treasures and other cultural artifacts.
Cherry blossoms in spring

The busiest time of the year at Ninnaji Temple is the time of the cherry blossoms. Ninnaji is most famous for its Omuro Sakura, the latest blooming cherry trees in all of Kyoto. But on the temple grounds, you can also find Somei Yoshino cherry trees in front of the Kondo main hall and weeping cherry trees in front of the bell tower. Ninnaji is at its most beautiful in spring. The busiest time of the year at Ninnaji Temple is the time of the cherry blossoms. The Somei Yoshino cherry trees in front of the Kondo main hall; the weeping cherry trees in front of the bell tower; and of course the famous, late-blooming Omuro Sakura by the inner gate all make the temple grounds look more beautiful than ever.
Beautiful Japanese garden

Ninnaji Temple has a beautiful Japanese garden. From the garden of the Goten Palace you can see breath-taking scenery of the Five-Storied Pagoda. Ninnaji Temple is the only temple in Kyoto that has a garden from where you can see a five-storied pagoda.
Omuro pilgrimage

There is a hiking course behind Ninnaji Temple called Omuro Pilgrimage. The Omuro Pilgrimage course is a shorter version of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. The Omuro Pilgrimage can be walked in around two hours, but it is said to have the same meaning as walking the Shikoku Pilgrimage. The route is surrounded by beautiful scenery, and you can listen to the sounds of nature, like little birds singing, while you walk.