Amid the misty ridges of Mount Yoshino, Yoshimizu Shrine is a cultural treasure where panoramic mountain vistas and centuries of legacy meet. As a vital piece of the region's UNESCO World Heritage status, this shrine captures the spirit of old Japan—not just through its rare, medieval architecture, but through the epic tales of the emperors and warriors who once sought shelter here.
The entire village comes alive during the spring with its cherry blossoms and amazing Kinpusenji Temple. There is enough to do to spend an entire day!
Where is Yoshimizu Shrine?
Yoshimizu Shrine is located in the town of Yoshino within Nara Prefecture, positioned on the slopes of Mount Yoshino. It is accessible from Yoshino Station after a ropeway or hike up the mountain.
A Brief History
Yoshimizu Shrine originally served as Yoshimizu-in, a prominent residential monastery established in the 8th century for Shugendo mountain practitioners. In the late 12th century, it became a historic refuge for the fleeing warrior Minamoto no Yoshitsune and his companion Benkei during their escape from Shogun Yoritomo. It later achieved its greatest political significance in the 14th century when Emperor Go-Daigo fled Kyoto and established the Southern Imperial Court directly within these walls, making the site a temporary imperial palace.
Visiting the shrine
The easiest way to get to Yoshimizu Shrine is by train as it is close to Yoshino Station. See the FAQ below for some more information about getting to the railway.
The cherry blossom season usually starting around the end of March and finishes in mid April. There are three main areas for the cherry blossoms that are at different elevations and therefore start and end at different times. The higher the elevation the later start and finish. The area is a great escape from the summer heat and is stunning in fall, too!
Another great way to travel to the temple is by a tour. We offer a day tour that leaves all the transportation to us, starting from Osaka Abenobashi Station. Tour the World Heritage temple of Kinpusenji, another world heritage shrine in Yoshimizu Shrine, explore the village and get great views of the mountain landscapes! Check it out below!
Small Group
Day Tour From Osaka: Nara-Yoshino's Mystical Mountains, Changing Seasons and Magical Past
Top Things to do in/from Osaka
Looking for other things to do around the area? Check out our "40 Things to Do in Kyoto, Nara, Osaka & Where to Stay" for places around the entire region. For those interested in history and culture in Osaka city itself there is Osaka Castle, Sumiyoshi Taisha and Senkoji Temple. The natural beauty of the Muroji Temple in Nara is also something that can't be missed! The entire region has a many awesome sights such as the Great Buddha of Nara, Kifune Shrine in Kyoto, Arima Onsen in Kobe and Koyasan in Wakayama. So much to do, you could be here for weeks without feeling bored!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do you get there?
You can get there by train. Take the Kintestu Yoshino Line from Osaka Abenobashi Station until Yoshino Station. It's then a short walk to the ropeway. From the ropeway it is about a ten minute walk up a slight hill and then down and up a small valley to reach the shrine. There are maps at the station that can help you find the way if you feel lost!
How much does it cost to get in?
It is 600 yen to see the study(the oldest building on the grounds) but it is free to walk around the main prayer area.
How long should I spend here?
If you enjoy the inside and walk around the entire grounds of the shrine it takes no more than one hour.
Is there food sold here or near here?
The entire area around the temple is a town with plenty of food. If you are there during a weekday or the winter the number of shops drops significantly so be prepared for that.
Is there anything to be careful of?
This temple is on a mountain. Everywhere is either uphill or downhill and even the "flat" areas are a bit deceptive. Once you are up past the ropeway it isn't as bad but there is still some decent hills.
