A temple on the hillside, famous for the successive blooming of various types of flowers.
Mimuroto-ji (三室戸寺) is a Buddhist temple located in southeastern Uji, Kyoto. Founded in 770 by Emperor Kōnin, it is the tenth stop on the 33-site Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage.
The temple offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to enjoy a historic site away from crowds—but its flowers are not to be missed. Mimuroto-ji is especially famous for hydrangeas, along with plum blossoms, azaleas, and rhododendrons. A hillside garden stretches from the entrance to the main hall. From late February to March, 250 red and white weeping plum trees bloom. From April to May, over 20,000 azaleas, 1,000 rhododendrons, and 10,000 hydrangeas bloom in succession.
Along the main path, near the top, are three stone statues: Ukajin, a half-man, half-snake deity you rub for luck; an ox whose mouth you place your hands in to ensure your plans succeed; and a rabbit with two holes where you try to stand an egg-shaped object—a surprisingly tricky challenge, judging by the slow-moving line of people!
The main temple is especially attractive when the lotus flowers surrounding it begin to bloom. After enjoying the flowers, follow the path to the right to discover a charming three-storied pagoda nestled among the trees.
Mimuroto-ji Temple（三室戸寺）
Address : Shigatani-21 Todo, Uji, Kyoto 611-0013
Hours : 08:30 to 16:00
Admission : 500yen ( 800 to 1,000 yen in season)
Attention : in season – you are advised to get there as early as possible, especially on a sunny weekend. Otherwise, by mid-morning, you will be competing with plenty of other flower-viewers and the paths are narrow…
Access : the easiest way is to take the Keihan Uji line from Chushojima to Mimurodo station. The temple is a 15-minute walk. Exit the station left, cross the tracks and keep walking straight.
Bus : Alternatively, there is the hourly 43 bus to the temple from JR Uji station or Keihan Uji station (20 minutes, 210 yen).
Plum Orchid
FEB-MAR
Beautiful Azalea Garden
APR-MAY : Check the event schedule
Visitors can enjoy the stunning gardens, where 20,000 azaleas and 1,000 rhododendrons bloom in vibrant colors.
Hydrangeas Garden Lit Up
JUN to the early JULY : Check the event schedule
The main garden features 10,000 hydrangeas in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white, with a winding path that takes you right through the colorful blooms.