Ninna-ji (仁和寺) is a well-known Monzeki temple (門跡寺院, a temple where the head priest is a member of the imperial family) built by the Emperor Uda (宇多天皇) in the Heain (平安) period. Until the Meiji Ishin (明治維新, Meiji Restoration), the head priest position of this temple was inherited by the royal family members successively. The temple is regarded as prestigious for its imperial court culture passed down until today.
The temple is also very famous for the late blooming cherry blossoms in spring. In addition, the autumn foliage in its courtyard is also worth seeing.
The five-storied pagoda on the premises was built in 1644, and now is designated as the important cultural property of Japan. Same as the one at Toji (東寺) temple, each story has almost the same height. It's interesting to learn about the feature of the buildings when you visit temples for autumn foliage viewing.
Akane Kibune
Kyoto Expert Certification 1st Grade
Access:
3 mins. on foot from Omuro-Ninnaji station, Keifuku line
MAP:
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