Cherry Blossom Viewing Spot in Kyoto's Bustling City Center

Rokkakudo Temple, officially known as Chohoji Temple, is a Tendai Buddhist temple located in Nakagyo Ward. Its mountain name is Shiunzan, and its principal deity is Nyoirin Kannon. The temple is commonly referred to as "Rokkakudo" due to its hexagonal-shaped main hall. Within the temple grounds, the weeping cherry trees are in full bloom, creating a stunning sight. Next to the cherry trees stands a massive willow tree, with its vibrant green branches contrasting beautifully against the red blossoms. This willow tree, known as the "Enmusubi Rokkaku Willow," is one of the temple's highlights. Legend has it that Emperor Saga and his consort formed their bond under this willow tree, making it a popular spot for young women to pray for good fortune in finding a partner. Beside the cherry blossom trees is a pond surrounded by 16 statues of Arhats. The number 16 is a multiple of 4 and 8, symbolizing all directions. Each Arhat statue has a unique design, but all share a charming smile. It is said that sincere worship here brings blessings. Near the commercial building side of the temple, there is a collection of Jizo stone statues, so numerous that the area is called "Jizo Mountain." Behind Jizo Mountain, several cherry trees are in full bloom, casting a delicate pink hue over the statues, creating a captivating scene. Behind Rokkakudo Temple lies the bathing site of Prince Shotoku. The square stone well in the pond is the remnant of the ancient bathing pool. While no one bathes there now, the pond is used to house koi fish and swans. Adjacent to the temple is a commercial building named "WEST18," completed in 1996. Rokkakudo Temple is the 18th site of the Saigoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage, a series of 33 temples in the Kansai region dedicated to Kannon Bodhisattva. The name "WEST18" derives from this connection. WEST18 features a glass observation elevator that offers a view of Rokkakudo Temple's unique hexagonal shape. However, the elevator moves quickly, and the view through the glass is somewhat unclear.