Kamigoryo shrine (上御霊神社) located in the Kamigyo (上京) ward was established in the Heian (平安) period for the purpose of soothing the vengeful spirits, and also known as the place of the Onin war (応仁の乱) outbreak. Currently, along the south-channel outside the Tsuiji-bei (築地塀, roofed mud wall), Ichihatsu (一初, 一: one, 初: first) flowers are blooming. The name was given because it blooms the earliest among other breeds in the Iris family. In the past, the water was running in the channel and Kakitsubata (杜若) used to be blooming, however, after the channel water ran dry, people planted Ichihatsu which is capable to grow in dry soil instead of Kakitsubata. Ichihatsu, Ayame (アヤメ, Iris), Kakitsubata, and Hana-shobu (花菖蒲), they all resemble with each other, but in fact growth conditions are different. Ayame including Ichihatsu blooms in the dry soil whereas Kakitsubata and Hanashobu in the water. That explains it! The season is coming! Please take a close look!
Akane Kibune
Kyoto Certificate 1st Grade
URL:
http://www.honen-in.jp/
Access:
5 mins. on foot from Kuramaguchi station, Subway Karasuma line
MAP:
