Could the Green of Springtime in Kyoto Make You Happier and Healthier?

Kyoto is well renowned for spring cherry blossom season which bathes the city in soft, pale pink. The city is also known for the maple trees which colour brilliantly in autumn. Lesser known is the season of fresh green growth called “shinryoku”, which means verdure, the fresh green colour of lush vegetation in April and May.

Numerous studies around the world have explored the health benefits of spending time in nature, in green spaces and in particular forests. Recognizing those benefits, in 1982, the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries coined a term for it: “shinrin-yoku”. It simply means bathing in the forest atmosphere and ever since then the ministry has encouraged people to visit forests to relieve stress and improve health. Some of the studies claim that being in forests boost your immune system, reduce stress, improve your mood, ability to focus and even increase your energy levels. Just five minutes around trees or in green spaces may improve health.

Even if you can't make it to a forest you can be surrounded by the verdure throughout Kyoto in spring. Some of the special highlights to refresh your senses with their lush green are:

Daigo Temple- Located in Fushimi Daigo-ji is a very large temple whose grounds cover the whole of Mt Daigo. The mountain is wrapped in fresh green foliage from top to bottom.

Kitano-Tenman-gu Shrine- on the edge of the picturesque Kamishichiken Geisha District, this shrine is known for it's brilliant maple colours in autumn. Since last year the grounds have been open to showcase the marvels of the fresh green foliage in spring. They are also host to the famous flea market on the morning of the 25th of each month.

Kurama and Kibune-These are two quiet towns a comfortable day trip out of Kyoto. Kibune Shrine is a highlight. Kyoto's Kibune is known for the unique Kawadoko restaurant where traditional Japanese tatami rooms have been built above the Kibune River. In these rooms, Kyoto cuisine can be sampled while enjoying the view of a refreshing, clear stream.

Eikando Temple- Located about half an hour bus ride from Kyoto station this temple was formerly known as Zenrinji which translates as “temple in a calm grove”. A hillside temple nestled amongst trees and surrounded by ponds and moss gardens, Eikando is one of the quieter temple areas in Kyoto.

For more information about how to enjoy Kyoto please consult www.kyoto.travel or contact our local office.