🌸 Chase Cherry Blossoms at Mitsu-dera, the Temple with a Millennium-Old Connection to Kōkei-ji 🌸

#cherryblossom25 Not long ago, I wrote about the plum blossoms at Kōkei-ji Temple, and in that post, I mentioned how my visit to Kōkei-ji was inspired by another journey to Mitsu-dera, a temple on another peak of Mount Hiei, the same mountain where Kōkei-ji resides. During my visit to Mitsu-dera, I came across the world’s oldest passport, dating back to 853 AD. This document was held by a Japanese monk, Enchin, who sailed from Fuzhou to the Tang dynasty in China, seeking Buddhist teachings at Tiantai Mountain's Kōkei-ji. After completing his studies, he returned to Japan and founded Mitsu-dera. 🇯🇵✨ Today, I want to share the story of Mitsu-dera’s cherry blossoms, a temple with over a thousand years of history, and its deep connection to Kōkei-ji. 🌸 Mitsu-dera and its Historical Significance Located in Shiga Prefecture, southwest of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake, Mitsu-dera (also known as Onjō-ji) is one of Japan's Four Great Temples, with a rich history that spans over 1,300 years. It was founded by Enchin in 859 AD after his return from China, where he drew inspiration from the sacred Mitsu Pond on Tiantai Mountain to establish the temple. Mitsu-dera is home to many national treasures and important cultural artifacts, making it a historical gem. 🏯💖 The Sacred "Tō-in" and the Thousand-Year Connection Mitsu-dera houses the Tō-in, a sacred area where Enchin’s tomb lies. The name "Tō-in" comes from the precious scriptures and ritual implements Enchin brought back from the Tang dynasty, underscoring the deep respect he had for the culture of China. This place has remained a sacred sanctuary for centuries, symbolizing the reverence Mitsu-dera holds for its origins. 🌿🕯️ Cherry Blossoms at Mitsu-dera: A Hidden Gem As the cherry blossom season approaches, Mitsu-dera offers an incredible experience for those seeking to escape the crowds of Kyoto. The cherry blossoms near the temple's “Kangetsu” stage, with their reflection in the temple's pond, are truly mesmerizing. This spot is a serene, tranquil alternative to the bustling sakura spots in Kyoto. If you want to enjoy cherry blossoms while immersing yourself in history, Mitsu-dera provides the perfect atmosphere. 🌸🌿 With its deep connection to Kōkei-ji and over a thousand years of history, Mitsu-dera’s cherry blossoms are the perfect way to experience Japan’s sakura season in a peaceful, historical setting. If you want to escape the crowds and enjoy sakura in a timeless, sacred place, this is the spot for you! 🍃🌸 #travel