[Visiting the Kirishima Azaleas of Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine]
Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine is located in Nagaokakyo, Kyoto. It is said that during the Heian period, Sugawara no Michizane enjoyed poetry and music here with Ariwara no Narihira, a renowned poet of the era.
Visiting the shrine in mid-April, the first thing that catches the eye is the azaleas in full bloom. The deep red flowers, blooming like a crimson corridor, welcome visitors. Standing on both sides of the central embankment are the "Kirishima Azaleas," which reach heights of over 2.5 meters. These ancient trees, said to be over 170 years old, turn a burning red all at once, offering a sight of such overwhelming power that it leaves one speechless.
These Kirishima azaleas came to Kyoto from Satsuma via Osaka at the beginning of the Edo period. The saplings, propagated through the "air layering" method, were also planted in locations associated with the Imperial family, such as the Kyoto Gyoen National Garden and the Katsura Imperial Villa, where they still color the gardens today.
Originally, Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine became known as a famous site for visitors after being introduced in the Edo-period guidebook "Miyako Meisho Zue." Although azaleas had not yet been planted at that time, the beauty of the pine forests and autumn leaves captured people's hearts, and it became a beloved scenic spot alongside its religious significance.
Through the long years, these vibrant azaleas still herald the arrival of spring. From our Sanjo Showroom, Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine can be reached in about 40 minutes by public transport. Using the Hankyu Railway is the smoothest way: walk from the showroom to the nearby "Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station" and take an express or semi-express train on the Hankyu Kyoto Line for 15 to 20 minutes to "Nagaoka-Tenjin Station." From the station, it is about a 10-minute walk to the shrine grounds where the Kirishima azaleas are located.
The azaleas at Nagaoka Tenmangu are now at their peak. Why not take a short trip to enjoy the fleeting scenery brought by the season?
Nagaoka Tenmangu
https://nagaokatenmangu.or.jp/
Sanjo Showroom of Shokunin.com
https://www.shokunin.com/en/showroom/sanjo.html
References
https://sense-nagaokakyo.city.nagaokakyo.lg.jp/posts/52756189/
https://www.city.nagaokakyo.lg.jp/0000001269.html
