Plum Blossoms at Jomyoji Temple (浄妙寺)
The Beauty of Plum Blossoms at Jomyoji
Jomyoji Temple is a renowned spot in Kamakura, where red and white plum blossoms adorn the approach, and wintersweet and Kawazu cherry blossoms add color to the temple grounds. The harmonious blend of birdsong and floral fragrance provides visitors with a peaceful springtime experience.
History and Background
Jomyoji (浄妙寺) is a prestigious temple founded in the late 12th century, ranked fifth among Kamakura’s Five Great Zen Temples. During the plum blossom season, the temple grounds come alive with vibrant colors. Along the path from the main gate to the main hall, red and white plum trees bloom, beautifully complemented by well-manicured pine trees.
Best Season to Visit and Highlights
- Late January to Early February: Red plums begin to bloom, signaling the arrival of spring amidst the winter chill.
- Early February to Late February: White plums reach full bloom, creating a striking contrast with the red plums.
- February to Early March: Wintersweet and Kawazu cherry blossoms enhance the temple’s seasonal beauty.
Around 30 plum trees are scattered throughout the temple grounds. Red plums start blooming in late January, followed by white plums from early to late February, with the best viewing period extending into early March. The prominent white plum tree near the main gate fills the air with its sweet fragrance, enchanting visitors. Additionally, Japanese white-eyes flitting among the blossoms and the distant song of warblers further enrich the springtime ambiance.
Tea House “Kisen-an” and Plum Garden
To the left of the main hall, the tea house Kisen-an features a dry landscape garden with several plum trees. Enjoying a cup of matcha while admiring the tranquil plum garden offers visitors a truly special moment.
Conclusion
From mid-February to early March, the magnificent white plum tree reaches its peak beauty, welcoming visitors along the approach. Jomyoji’s serene environment, in perfect harmony with nature, makes it an ideal place to enjoy the arrival of spring in a peaceful setting.
When visiting Kamakura, take a moment to stop by Jomyoji Temple and appreciate the breathtaking spring scenery created by plum blossoms and birdsong. This charming landscape will provide a soothing and memorable experience for all who visit.
Toshi’s Evaluation (2026)
| Evaluation Category | Score | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | 9 | Red and white plum blossoms are scattered throughout the grounds, including near the main hall and along the approach. They harmonize well with the karesansui (dry landscape) garden and the open, sunlit area in front of the main hall. The site is often featured as a plum-viewing spot and is highly photogenic, though the number of trees and scale are somewhat modest compared to Kamakura’s top plum temples. |
| Accessibility | 9 | Accessible via an 8–15 minute bus ride from JR Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅) East Exit, followed by a 1–2 minute walk from the nearest bus stop. This makes it convenient for those using public transport. However, walking from the station alone takes about 30 minutes, so it does not earn a perfect score. |
| Historical Value | 9 | A historic Zen temple said to have been founded in the late 12th century, it ranks fifth among the Five Great Zen Temples of Kamakura (鎌倉五山). With features such as its garden and tea house, the temple has high cultural value, although it is slightly less known internationally compared to the top-ranked temples. |
| Comfort | 8 | The temple tends to be quiet and less crowded, offering a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy matcha in a tea room overlooking the garden. However, slopes and steps are common, posing challenges for accessibility. |
| Reviews | 7 | Online reviews generally place it in the upper-middle range, with praise for its garden and peaceful setting. However, there are also comments noting difficulties with access and limited barrier-free facilities, preventing it from reaching the highest rating tier. |
Total Score: 41
Overall Evaluation
With its tranquil garden and red-and-white plum blossoms set against the backdrop of a prestigious Zen temple in the Kamakura Gozan hierarchy, this site is ideal for visitors seeking a quiet plum-viewing experience. Assuming the use of public buses, access is convenient, and for those prioritizing a serene setting and the added value of tea room experiences, it stands out as a strong option in the eastern Kamakura area.