A Shugendo training-hall shukubo on UNESCO-listed Yoshino-yama, founded by an Emperor Tenmu vow and home to three Important Cultural Property Buddhas.
Features
Highlights
Founded by Emperor Tenmu, the Cherry-Blossom Temple
Sakuramotobo was founded in the late 7th century by Kakujo Sozu, the senior disciple of En no Gyoja, on the spot where the future Emperor Tenmu dreamed of a cherry tree in full bloom — a divine sign that he would become emperor. It is registered as the imperial vow temple of both Emperor Tenmu and Empress Jito.
Active Shugendo Training Hall on Mt. Omine
A Special Head Temple of the Honzan Shugen-shu and one of the five guardian temples of Mt. Omine (Daiminesan-goji-in). The temple still leads major Shugendo programs each year, including 大峯山登拝修行 (Mt. Omine pilgrimage training) and the 5-day 大峰奥駈修行 (Omine Okugake-do traverse).
Three Important Cultural Property Buddhas
The principal image — a Kamakura-period statue of Jinben Daibosatsu (En no Gyoja) — together with the Shaka Nyorai seated statue (Asuka-Hakuho period; said to be Emperor Tenmu's personal Buddha) and a Heian-period seated Jizo Bosatsu, are all designated National Important Cultural Properties.
About
Details
Frequently Asked Questions
9 questions about Sakuramotobo
A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn featuring tatami-mat rooms, futon bedding, communal or private baths, and multi-course kaiseki meals. Guests typically wear yukata (cotton robes) provided by the inn. A ryokan stay is one of the most authentic cultural experiences Japan has to offer.
Upon arrival, you'll be provided with a yukata (light cotton robe) and a pair of slippers. You can wear the yukata throughout the ryokan — to dinner, to the onsen, and even for a stroll in the neighborhood. Indoor slippers should be removed before stepping on tatami mats.
Sakuramotobo has limited English support. We recommend using a translation app or asking your hotel concierge to help with any pre-arrival communication. The staff is very welcoming and will do their best to assist.
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00. If you arrive early, most ryokans can store your luggage while you explore the area. Late check-in may be possible — contact the ryokan in advance to arrange.
Yes, Sakuramotobo can prepare vegetarian meals. Japanese Buddhist cuisine (shojin ryori) is naturally plant-based and beautifully presented. Please inform the ryokan of your dietary requirements at least 2 days before arrival so the chef can prepare accordingly.
Yes, most ryokans including Sakuramotobo offer luggage storage for guests arriving before check-in time. You can also use coin lockers at the nearest station or luggage delivery services (takkyubin) to send bags directly from the airport or previous hotel.
Sakuramotobo may have limited credit card acceptance. We recommend having Japanese yen (cash) available. ATMs at convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) accept international cards.
The nearest station is Yoshinoyama Station (Yoshino Ropeway), approximately 20 minutes on foot. You can reach it by local train, subway, or taxi. The ryokan can provide detailed walking directions upon request.
You can book Sakuramotobo through trusted platforms like Booking.com or Expedia. Click the "Check Prices" button on this page to check availability and rates. We recommend booking at least 2-4 weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons (cherry blossom in March-April and autumn leaves in November).
More in Yoshino
You Might Also Like
Tonan-in
大峯山 東南院
A 1,300-year-old shukubo founded by En no Gyoja southeast of Kinpusen-ji, with a famous tahoto pagoda and weeping cherry. Used by Retired Emperor Shirakawa and Matsuo Basho.
from $60 /per night
Chikurin-in Gunpoen
竹林院 群芳園
Yoshino-yama's most prestigious shukubo-ryokan, founded by Prince Shotoku and centered on Gunpoen — a Sen no Rikyu garden listed among the Three Great Gardens of Yamato.
from $110 /per night
Yoshino-so Yukawaya
吉野荘 湯川屋
A 300-year-old gate-front ryokan to Kinpusen-ji Zao-do, the closest lodging to the National Treasure hall, with Nara's first infinity open-air bath.
from $130 /per night