The cherry blossoms at Entsu-ji Temple - a beautiful cherry blossom spot where the contrast between the Seto Inland Sea and the industrial area is stunning. On April 2, 2026, they were in full bloom.

The cherry blossom season has arrived.
There are many famous cherry blossom spots in Kurashiki City, so every year I enjoy pondering where to go for hanami (flower viewing). I started viewing the blossoms a bit early when there were still many buds, but I would like to see them in full bloom as well.

Thinking that they might be in full bloom soon, I headed to Enstu-ji Temple. I will share the cherry blossom conditions from April 2, 2026.

What is Enstu-ji Temple?

Enstu-ji Temple is located in Tamashima, Kurashiki City.
It is known as the place where the Edo period monk Ryo-kan trained. Since it is situated on a mountain called Hakusan, the nature is abundant, and from the summit, you can see the Seto Inland Sea and the industrial area.

On clear days with fresh air, you can even see the Seto-Ohashi Bridge through a telescope.

The most bustling time at Enstu-ji Temple is probably in April.
In addition to cherry blossom viewers, many people visit for the Ryo-kan Tea Ceremony held every April. It is a traditional event that reflects the tea ceremony culture rooted in Tamashima.

Enstu-ji Temple - An ancient temple in Tamashima where the famous monk Ryo-kan trained. Azaleas, maples, and cherry blossoms are also highlights.

Ryo-kan, known as a famous monk and respected by many, was active during the Edo period. Did you know that Ryo-kan has connections to Kurashiki City? In fact, Ryo-kan spent time at a temple in Kurashiki City for about...

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Cherry Blossoms on April 2

When I visited Enstu-ji Temple on April 2, 2026, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom.

Enstu-ji Temple is spacious, so I will introduce the cherry blossoms by area.

Main Hall

The main hall with its impressive thatched roof.
There is also a statue of Ryo-kan, and the representative scenery of Enstu-ji Temple unfolds here.

The day before (April 1, 2026), it had been raining continuously, so I was worried that the cherry blossoms might have fallen, but it seems they held up well. There were not many petals scattered.

The petals falling on the mossy ground are beautiful as well.

Near the Summit

My personal favorite view is near the summit.

In the foreground, there are green meadows, light pink cherry blossoms, the Seto Inland Sea, and the industrial area spread out. The contrast of green, light pink, and blue, nature and man-made structures is beautiful. The day I visited was a bit hazy, but it was still a breathtaking view.

Cherry Blossom Tunnel

There is a single path leading from the summit to the meadow below that resembles a cherry blossom tunnel. This is also a recommended spot for taking portraits.

Near the Meadow

Since Enstu-ji Temple is on a mountain, the cherry blossoms are basically planted on slopes.
The slope is gentle, and there are flat areas here and there, so you can not only walk but also spread out a leisure sheet for hanami.

The cherry blossoms spread across the slope, providing a stunning view. There are a few trees that still have some buds, but they are almost in full bloom. I enjoyed viewing the cherry blossoms from both above and below.

There are open meadows with benches, making it a nice spot for hanami.

Conclusion

I enjoyed the full bloom of the cherry blossoms at Enstu-ji Temple.
Walking up the slope while listening to the chirping of birds in the rich nature is a pleasant experience.

At Enstu-ji Temple, you can enjoy both hanami while walking and leisurely hanami with a leisure sheet. If you want to see cherry blossoms and breathtaking views, be sure to visit.

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