What other travelers are saying about Tsubosakadera Temple
One of its highlights is the massive stone statue of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, which is truly awe-inspiring. The temple grounds are lovely to explore, with seasonal flowers adding to the charm. It’s a tranquil spot that offers a deep sense of history and spirituality, making it a worthwhile visit for anyone in the area.
We visited during sakura; crowded and kinda expensive (800 Yen per person plus 500 Yen parking). The views are lovely but the temple facilities don’t seem to be of much value, bit eclectic with some Indian stuff and some traditional Japanese figurines. Most of the buildings looked run-down (need repainting). We were wondering about the religious and historical value (there is a very short explanation on a board at the entrance - not very clear or convincing), probably overrated because of the sakura. The top 3-level pagoda seems ancient and nice but also needs restoration. Otherwise the place comes across as a bit commercial - no offense.
Be ready to hike (which I think is the better option anyways). If you’re just here for the photos, maybe the long wait or hike is not worth the trip. If you view it as a nice hike in the mountain or a workout in the nature, it’s totally worth it!
If you have a car, the traffic is about 2-3 miles (4-5 kms) out. The parking lots are only able to host about fewer than 100 cars based on my estimation. It’s like the ski resorts: one car out, one car in. The rest of the cars were just sitting there.
If you’re taking public transportation, there was no bus running from the train station to the temple today (I assume it’s because of the crazy traffic). You can take the full walk/hike, which is about 1 hr one way. Or you can take a taxi to where the traffic starts, which saves you some walking (saved me about 30 mins).
Wear comfortable shoes, breathable clothes and bring water! Don’t count on the vending machines at the temple. Since so many people are walking up, a lot of the hydrating selections were sold out, mostly coffee left. Get your water before your hike and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful Sakura.
Today’s April 7th and the petals started falling a bit. You may be able to see full Sakura snow in the next few days. Good luck guys!
It was the best welcome I got so far ! I went with my dog on a Saturday morning (犬)
I join a traditional ceremony 節分 (setsubun) it was wonderful ! I went with my dog and they kept an eye on him all the time I was at the ceremony.
The entrance fee is 600¥, you can take a dog in the temple but not into the building (understandable). There are cats and shiba inside the temple. Parking fee was 500¥.
The is not entrance fee for the setsubun.
I am so grateful, the staff and the monks are really attentive and nice.
I will come back for spring
I visited April 4, 2024. Sakura has already in bloom. It was so pretty and tranquil.
Please note that from tsubosaka station to tsubosakadera, there's only a few buses available. Please check carefully on their timetable. Otherwise, you can walk for 1 hour. But the track is up hill and pedestrian walk is not always available.
It was worth the effort. The cherry blossom is so pretty!
