At Yasaka Shrine in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, the azaleas in front of the West Tower Gate, which is designated as a nationally important cultural property, are in full bloom. Pink flowers decorate the area as worshipers take commemorative photos on the stone steps.
In front of the gate located at the east end of Shijo-dori Street, satsuki trees are planted for about 70 meters across the stone steps. According to Yasaka Shrine, the flowers began blooming around May 10th. Although there are some shrubbery that are past their peak blooming season, there are places where they are blooming densely and there are still some buds remaining.
The entire area is one of Kyoto's leading tourist areas. The area in front of the gate is affectionately known as ''Gion Ishidanshita,'' and is constantly visited by tourists and students on school trips. When I looked in front from across the street, I saw a bright pink panorama spread across the familiar scenery, creating a contrast unique to this season.
