The End of the Cherry Blossom Season at Kiyomizu-dera in 2025: A Gentle Farewell to Spring

By late April 2025, the cherry blossom season at Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera Temple reaches its end, offering a unique charm. Standing on the iconic Kiyomizu Stage in front of the main hall, visitors can see the sparse cherry blossoms clinging to the branches, a tender remnant of spring. The ground is covered with a thick layer of fallen petals, resembling a pink carpet. Occasionally, a gentle breeze stirs up a fleeting "flower snowstorm." The temple's vermilion walls and black-tiled roofs appear even more timeless against the backdrop of the fading blossoms. Sunlight filters through the gaps in the foliage, casting dappled shadows that add a touch of vitality to the ancient site. Strolling along the winding paths, one might still encounter a few late-blooming cherry trees, stubbornly showcasing their blossoms amidst the surrounding greenery. Nearby, the Otowa Waterfall flows gently, accompanied by the sound of the wind and the occasional drifting petals, composing a serene finale to spring. Though the grandeur of full bloom has passed, the tranquil and leisurely atmosphere of Kiyomizu-dera at the end of the cherry blossom season offers a unique beauty, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the quiet charm of spring's farewell.