The Phantom Weeping Cherry of Muryōji Temple: Bridging Ages and Souls

Each spring, these cherry blossoms transformed the temple grounds into a breathtaking spectacle of elegance and beauty. The blossoms, with their ethereal presence, left a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to witness their majesty. These cherry trees, standing tall at an impressive 10.5 meters and boasting a trunk circumference of 1.72 meters, extended their branches up to 15 meters across from north to south, creating a canopy of pink that whispered stories of the past and present.

Lost cherry blossom

The cherry blossoms of Muryoji Temple were not merely a visual delight; they stood as a testament to the enduring allure and resilience of nature, woven deeply into the rich fabric of Japanese culture and history. The origins of this remarkable cherry tree trace back to around 1920, marking the beginning of a storied legacy.

This legacy commenced with the transplantation of a sapling from Daimyoji Temple in Kyoto City, a site revered for its cherry blossoms and beloved by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, to Muryoji Temple. This initiative was undertaken by Nissuke Shonin, the third generation predecessor of Muryoji Temple, who served at Daimyoji Temple. For approximately 130 years, the majestic weeping cherry blossoms of Muryoji Temple stood as a proud herald of spring, imbuing the sacred grounds with awe and reverence.

The cherry tree was particularly famous for its enchanting nighttime illuminations, transforming the temple into a fantastical realm that seemed to exist in a different world, especially during the rain. The mingling of rain sounds with the vertical lines of rainfall and the delicate cherry blossoms created an atmosphere of unparalleled beauty, captivating all who witnessed it.

The cherry blossom festival held at Muryoji Temple was a vibrant and bustling event, drawing both locals and visitors from afar, significantly contributing to the revitalization of the area. Over time, the cherry tree grew to be more than just a plant; it became a cherished symbol of the region, holding a central place in the hearts of the local community.

However, around the year 2000, the tree began to suffer from a wood-rotting fungus, leading to the fall of dead branches and increasing danger. Measures were taken to support the tree with poles, yet by the spring of 2023, the tree’s bloom had diminished to merely 10-20% of its former glory. Concerns for the safety of visitors and the preservation of buildings led Muryoji Temple to make the difficult decision to cut down the tree, a decision that deeply shocked and saddened those who held the tree dear.

On January 14, 2024, at 11:30 AM, in front of a gathering of individuals who loved the cherry tree, the weeping cherry was cut down. This moment marked the end of an era for Muryoji Temple’s cherry blossoms, leaving behind memories of its beauty and the indelible impact it had on the community and its visitors.

Access and Local Area Information

• Location: 776-3 Asakura Kami-Ko, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture
• Parking: Available
• Admission: Free
• Contact Information: 0898-56-2156
  (Muryoji Temple)
• Website: https://www.muryouji.com/