Yoshimizu Shrine

Overview

Yoshimizu Shrine, originally a high-ranking temple lodging called Yoshimizu-in, was converted into a shrine at the beginning of the Meiji period, enshrining Emperor Go-Daigo, Masashige Kusunoki, and Soen Hoin. Yoshimizu-in served as a temporary palace for Emperor Go-Daigo, who was welcomed by Soeshin Hoin, the head priest with significant influence among the Yoshino populace. This historic site also sheltered Minamoto no Yoshitsune and later served as Hideyoshi Toyotomi's base during his cherry blossom viewing. The shrine houses over 100 treasures, including ancient documents and weaponry from the Southern Court, as well as musical instruments used during Hideyoshi's flower viewing. Its Shoin architecture, considered a masterpiece of early Shoin style, features rooms such as Yoshitsune's retreat, Emperor Go-Daigo's throne room, and Hideyoshi's flower viewing room. The Yoshitsune room is in the Muromachi period style, while the others date from the Momoyama period and later. Located in Yoshinoyama, Yoshino Town, Nara Prefecture, it is accessible via a 3-minute ropeway ride from Kintetsu Yoshino Station followed by a 20-minute walk.

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