Located on the east side of Kyoto's city center, Yamashina has a rich history dating back approx. 25,000 years when people first began to inhabit the area. The area is just one station, a 5-minute JR train ride from Kyoto Station as well as easily accessible by Keihan Bus in about 14 min. and by the Tozai Subway Line in 15 min. from downtown (the area is covered by the "Subway and Bus One-Day Pass"). The artificial canal called “Biwako Sosui,” completed in 1890, runs from east to west, offering opportunities for fun cruises. There are also numerous cherry blossom viewing spots that may not be found in guidebooks.

Hidden cherry blossom viewing spots in Yamashina

Here are three recommended cherry blossom viewing spots in Yamashina, known only to local residents and easily accessible from Kyoto Station and downtown.

1) Yamashina Sosui Canal:

Accessible from Yamashina Sta., just one station (5 minutes) from Kyoto Sta.. The canal stretches about 4 km from Japan's largest lake, Lake Biwa, to Kyoto City. Cherry trees are planted along the canal, creating a “cherry blossom tunnel” during full bloom.

2) Zuishin-in Temple:

Accessible from Ono Sta., 15 minutes by subway from downtown. The temple offers the unique opportunity to enjoy both plum and cherry blossoms at the same time. The elegant colors of plum blossoms and the vibrant hues of cherry blossoms create an exquisite contrast.

Zuishin-in Temple's official website (available in Japanese only): 
https://www.zuishinin.or.jp/

3) Oishi Shrine:

Take a Keihan Bus from Kyoto Station’s Hachijo Exit and arrive in just 14 min. Along with the adjacent Iwaya Temple, it provides an early cherry blossom viewing opportunity in mid-March. This spot is known mainly to local residents and offers a serene and less crowded experience.

Yamashina Sweets Festival

Yamashina is home to many sweets and pastry shops, featuring traditional Japanese confections, cheesecakes, Baumkuchen (German cake), and various Western-style pastries. The Yamashina Sweets Festival is held each year in spring, bringing together numerous shops for a delightful confectionery celebration.