Written by Jane Pipkin
With picturesque views and a pagoda that appears pink, Tsubosaka Temple is a place rich in history and beauty.
Standing on Mount Tsubosaka, this temple is famous not only for its views — it is actually the sixth temple of the 33 temples of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. Moreover, it is believed to help heal those with eye diseases.
Tsubosaka Temple was founded in 703. Since the 1960s, the temple has supported relief efforts for leprosy patients in India, making it an important cultural exchange landmark.
A popular sakura spot, the vast grounds are covered in pink during springtime. The temple turns into a photographer’s dream as a giant seated Buddha peeks out from among the cherry blossoms. Additionally, the pagoda — actually vermilion red — appears pink. A truly dreamlike landscape.
Note that during sakura season, the admission price increases from ¥800 to ¥1,000 for adults. The admission fee for children goes up from ¥200 to ¥300.
Pro tip: Why not make a day of your visit? This day trip includes a visit to the temple, plus a chance to do some strawberry picking.
How to get there
If you are coming on the weekend or a holiday, it is recommended to depart from Kintetsu Kyoto Station. Take the train bound for Kashiharajingu-mae, change at Kashiharajingu-mae, then get off at Tsubosakayama Station.
Then, take the bus and get off at Tsubosakadera-mae bus stop. The journey takes just under 2 hours, and costs ¥1,540.
