The Capital in the Mountains, the Era Two Emperors Reigned

Kimpusen-ji Temple 

(Yoshino Gun, Nara Prefecture) 

【Yoshino (吉野)】 is renowned for its mountainous cherry blossom viewing located in the southern part of Nara Prefecture. In April, the entire mountain transforms into a pink wonderland as 30,000 sakura trees come into full bloom. These trees have been planted as sacred symbols by adherents of Japan’s ancient mountain worship tradition for centuries. 

Yoshino, nestled within its mountainous embrace, reveals a landscape of dense forests, where flat expanses are scarce. Over time, this region acquired a sacred aura, drawing monks who sought spiritual enlightenment amid its peaks.

En no Ozunu, the legendary monk, left an indelible mark on Yoshino’s history. According to lore, he carved a Buddha statue from a sakura tree. The statue itself bore an angry countenance, symbolizing the forceful expulsion of demons. Yet, paradoxically, it also radiated compassion and tolerance. This episode made sakura trees the sacred trees in the region.

The original statue has vanished into the mists of time. However, three statues with blue fury faces, made in the 16th century, stand in the main hall of Kimpusen-ji Temple (UNESCO World Heritage), as secret treasures. Each of them represents the past, present, and future. These statues, revealed to the public only once a year during the cherry blossom season.

Near the main hall, there was an another temple called Jitsujoji that served as an emperor residence in the 14th century. The imperial court divided into two factions. Two emperors reigned for fifty six years.

The 96th Emperor Godaigo was deposed his position and confined in a temple in Kyoto by Samurai government, however, he managed to escape to Yoshino and established his new government there. When he left Kyoto, he brought the Three Sacred Treasures of the imperial regalia with him. He claimed he was the legitimate emperor because he had the symbols of emperor.

This division resulted in two separate emperors governing different parts of Japan. The ensuing conflict between these factions persisted, characterized by continuous warfare and political turmoil. 

As you explore this serene mountainous region, your mind will be refreshed and relaxed. The picturesque landscape conceals the tumultuous and war-torn events of the past. The history of this temple extends beyond this narrative. As this area was beloved by imperial lineage and shoguns throughout the ages, intriguing tales in the history go beyond what can be captured in this article. Take a leisurely stroll around the Kimpusen-ji Temple grounds and immerse yourself in contemplation of its rich historical heritage.

Unfortunately, I visited there in the winter and couldn’t capture the beautiful cherry blossom scenes.