Wakayama

Cherry Trees at Kokawadera Temple

Famous cherry blossom viewing spot in Northern Wakayama

Takako Sakamoto Mar 24, 2015 - 2 min read

<p>A soft, refreshing breeze caressed my cheek while cherry petals were dancing in the wind</p>

<p>Impressive main gate in vermilion!</p>

<p>The frightening expression of two asura statues that represent A-un (the beginning and the end of all things)…</p>

<p>…seemed softened by lovely cherry blossoms.</p>

<p>Perfect combination of an old wooden gate and cherry blossoms</p>

<p>Cherry petals floating on a stream</p>

<p>Weeping cherry tree in front of Fudo Hall. Cherry blossoms are sparkling on branches as lithe as those of a weeping willow tree.</p>

<p>I walked on a thin veil of fallen petals that covered the path</p>

Allured by an amorous fragrance of cherry trees at Kokawadera Temple, I visited northern Wakayama prefecture on April 10th, 2011. In the Kinki region, the earliest cherry blossoms start to bloom in Wakayama.

Kokawadera Temple is the third temple of 33 Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage temples. In spring, many pilgrims and visitors flock to this temple to enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms. But somehow, there were only a few people on this day, which gave me a chance to stroll leisurely along a pathway decorated by cherry blossoms. A refreshing spring breeze occasionally caressed my cheek. The view of the cherry petals dancing in the wind like confetti seemed to me like a Japanese painting drawn on sliding doors. Kyoto or Nara are not the only places you can touch the heart of Japan! I'd like to continue sharing with you the historical sites and places where we can feel the good old days of Japan.

Glorious Spring at Kokawadera Temple 1. Cherry Trees at Kokawadera Temple 2. Blossom Colored Kokawadera Temple

Takako Sakamoto @takako.sakamoto

I was born in and grew up in Tokushima prefecture, and have lived in many places since then: Nishinomiya, Kyoto, Nara, Mie, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Fukuoka and Fukui. I am currently living in Yokohama City. All the places I lived, all the places I visited, I have loved dearly. The histor...