“A suburban mansion hiding in plain sight?” That’s the question I had when I first heard about Omuro-Okanosusocho. Today we will explore its neighborhood. Omuro is an elegant area in northwest Kyoto. Until recently, it was home to temple priests and descendants of the former aristocracy.
Omuro-Okanosusocho is near Ninna-ji Temple. Ninna-ji Temple was founded in 886 by Emperor Uda. Before that, it was a summer home for the Imperial Family. They used it to escape the summer heat of Gosho Palace. Uda served as head priest for thirty years. His son succeeded him. This practice continued until the Imperial Family moved to Tokyo in 1869.
Today, one part of Ninna-ji Temple is a World Heritage site. The temple is known for its Omuro Cherry trees. This species blooms late. It blooms after the Someyoshi, Mountain, and Weeping Cherries. Once those trees sprout green leaves, the Omuro Cherry blooms.
Most of the Ninna-ji grounds are free. You can stroll the complex without paying. But in April, when the cherry trees bloom, there is a 300 yen entrance fee. During this time, the temple is filled with tour groups. People sit on benches under the branches. Women wear kimonos. Stalls sell local products.
The Kusho Myojin Shrine is located in the back of the grounds. It was built in the 1640s. It is a National Cultural Property.
Kyutei Omuro is a historic Japanese house near Ninna-ji Temple. It was built in 1937. It features Sukiya style architecture and decorations. Kyutei Omuro offers a stunning view of the garden. The garden reflects on a polished wooden table. It is open to the public in early summer and fall. Visitors enjoy the fresh green foliage in summer. In autumn, they enjoy the autumn colors.
From the main room, you can stroll the garden. The garden is on the slope of Narabigaoka hill. There is a tea house on the slope. From there, you can see the five-story pagoda of Ninna-ji Temple. You can enjoy tea and sweets in the tea room. The view from the tea room is also stunning.
Kyutei Omuro was built in 1937. The architect and purpose are unknown. In 1969, Kihei Abe IV, an executive at a sake brewing company, sold the property to Mitsuo Yamamoto. Yamamoto was the president of a lumber company. In November 2016, Kyutei Omuro became a National Tangible Cultural Property.
The current owner is Akiyo Murata. She is the daughter of Mitsuo Yamamoto. She wishes to preserve the beauty of Kyutei Omuro. She wants to make it a place that contributes to Kyoto’s culture.
Omuro-Okanosusocho offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a place where you can experience the essence of Kyoto. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you.