Seasons of Yamadera - Spring
The heavy snows on the mountainside begin to melt, and the forested slopes of Yamadera slowly spring to life with fresh greenery. Scattered cherry trees typically bloom from mid-to late April, and in June, toward the end of spring, colorful hydrangeas adorn the temple complex. The mild weather makes for a comfortable hike through the temple grounds.
Yamadera hosts several springtime events, two of which are open to the public: the Ennin Matsuri and the Sanno Matsuri. The Ennin Matsuri is held on April 14 to celebrate the birthday of Yamadera’s founder, the monk Ennin (794–864). During this festival, visitors can attend a memorial service at the temple’s main hall, the Konpon Chudo. The Sanno Matsuri is a festival held on May 17. Three mikoshi portable shrines from Hie Shrine are carried to the streets below the temple complex accompanied by traditional music.