🌸 11km Cherry blossoms in a thousand-year sanctuary 🌸
Nestled in the foothills of Saijo City, Ehime, Nishiyama Koryuji is an imperial votive temple with over a thousand years of history. While famously known as the “Maple Temple,” spring reveals a different splendor as its 1-km approach becomes a tunnel of weeping cherries and Somei-Yoshino. This 11km GPS art course invites you to explore this sacred terrain while sketching a grand cherry blossom (Sakura) on your digital map.
The undisputed star of this route is the “Furuta Weeping Cherry,” a natural monument designated by Saijo City. Standing 7 meters tall and approximately 100 years old, this majestic tree exerts an overwhelming presence when in full bloom. As you navigate the course, you will feel the dignity of the temple’s ancient structures, including the main hall and the bronze bell, which are registered cultural assets. The serene atmosphere of the mountains provides a perfect backdrop for your artistic journey.
The path also weaves through a “temple town” atmosphere, passing other significant sites like Kinsen-ji and Kumyo-ji. You will also encounter local landmarks such as Mitsuboshi Food Industries, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the region. Designated as one of Ehime’s scenic spots, the area offers a harmonious blend of architectural beauty and natural landscapes that change with the seasons.
This 11km course is not just a physical activity; it is a pilgrimage through time. Whether you are an avid runner or a leisurely walker, tracing the petals of a cherry blossom at the foot of these ancient mountains is a profound way to celebrate spring in Shikoku. Lace up your shoes, breathe in the mountain air, and let your creativity bloom in the heart of this historic sanctuary.
DETAIL (EXTERNAL LINK)
A PIONEER IN GPS ART.
1st work was authorized by Guinness World Records as “the Largest GPS Drawing”.
He is the only Japanese person to be featured in a Google documentary as an innovator. He is fascinated by the idea of drawing with GPS and has published more than 2,500 works.
