In the Heian Era (794 to 1185 A.D) plum blossom was preferred over cherry blossom, so it seems somehow fitting that Ishiyamadera has so many plum trees, since it is linked to the story of Murasaki Shikibu, lady at the Heian Court, and probably the first novelist in the world. If you visit Ishiyamadera you are sure to enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens. The temple complex sprawls over a small mountain and there are a number of interesting buildings, as well as a small museum dedicated to the Tale of Genji's author.
- 1 min read
Plum Blossom at Ishiyamadera
Temple with a connection to the world's first novel
By Cathy Cawood
Community writer
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Anonymous
9 years ago
Very beautiful flowers and steeped in history..
Rebecca Stock
10 years ago
I love the plum blossoms as much as the cherry. It is too bad one is preferred over another these days. I think this picture shows us plum blossoms can be magnificent too! :)
James Forest
10 years ago
Simply beautiful
3 comments in total
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