Discover a serene sanctuary of history and art at Nyoirin-ji Temple (如意輪寺), a tranquil gem tucked away in the Naka Senbon area of Mt. Yoshino. Founded in the 10th century, this sacred site is most famous as the final resting place of Emperor Go-Daigo and for its deep connection to the tragic samurai hero Kusunoki Masatsura, who famously carved a farewell poem into the temple’s wooden doors before his final battle. Beyond its storied past, Nyoirin-ji is a haven for art lovers, housing a rare collection of Buddhist statues and vibrant mandalas within its Treasure House. Whether you are wandering through its lush, maple-lined gardens or seeking a moment of peace away from the mountain’s main crowds, Nyoirin-ji offers a contemplative look at the enduring spirit of the Nara wilderness.
About Nyoirinji Temple
Nyoirinji in the Naka-senbon area was founded as a Shingon Sec (真言宗) temple in the early 10th century. After Emperor Godaigo set up his palace in Yoshino, Nyoirinji also became an imperial temple of the Southern Court (南朝) in 1336.
The temple is known for the Japanese poem carved on a wooden door by Kusunoki Masatsura (楠木正行), expressing his determination to fight and die in the war that he was departing for.
As a side note, Kusunoki Masatsura is the son of Kusunoki Masashige.
Behind the Nyoirinji Temple’s main worship hall, Hondō (本堂), you will also encounter the Mausoleum of Emperor Godaigo. Unlike other emperors’ mausoleums of the same period, which all face south, Emperor Godaigo’s grave was built facing Kyoto. It shows his desire to defeat the Northern Court based in Kyoto, albeit it also means his mausoleum will be hot in summer and cold in winter (´▽｀*).
Cherry Blossoms and Other Flowers at Nyoirinji Temple
From the ropeway station, the road to Nyoirinji has many steep sections. But, the cherry blossom scenery of the Naka Senbon area that you will see from the temple, and even from the approach, is simply divine!
During the cherry blossom season, enjoy a cup of matcha green tea and traditional sweets with the stunning cherry blossom view in front of you at Nyoirinji Temple!
Furthermore, the Chrysanthemum Festival (菊まつり) is held from the beginning to mid-November each year!
Nyoirinji Temple’s Opening Hours, Admission Fee, and Access Information
- Nyoirinji Temple is open from 9 am to 4 pm.
- During the cherry blossom season, it is open from 8:30 am to 5 pm.
- The admission fee is
- 600 yen for adults
- 200 yen for high school students
- 100 for elementary school students
- It is around a 40-minute walk from Yoshinoyama Ropeway Station.
Discover Other Attractions in Mt. Yoshino
Widely considered Japan’s premier cherry blossom destination, Mt. Yoshino has a couple of spots to admire the slopes blanketed by the flowers of over 30,000 cherry trees. And as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the sacred mountain offers much more than seasonal flowers. Thousand-year-old shrines are scattered in the Shimo, Naka, Kami, and Oku Senbon areas.
So, refer to our Mt. Yoshino article to discover the attractions that inspired poets for centuries!
