Nestled in a peaceful valley in northern Yakage town, where beautiful terraced rice fields stretch across the landscape, lies Kisshoji Temple.

As spring arrives, the temple grounds are adorned with the charming, pale pink blossoms of the Hall crabapple (Kaido). During the annual festival, the heartfelt hospitality of the local community brings warm smiles to every visitor’s face.

Known for its blessings of “harmonious relationships and good matches,” the temple also offers a glimpse into history. At the Konpira-ten shrine atop the hill, the vibrant ceiling paintings by Kansuisai Kano remain preserved, whispering stories of the past.

Why not treat yourself to a heartwarming spring moment in this nostalgic satoyama landscape, where the crabapples bloom in all their glory?