Uhoin Temple

Founded in 812 by the Shingon monk Kukai, Uhoin was completely destroyed during the Onin War and rebuilt after a fire in 1788. For centuries, Nishijin's textile dyers held it in special regard: water from its well was believed to produce the richest colors when mixed with dye for silk, and the well was said never to run dry no matter how many craftsmen drew from it. Today the grounds are peaceful year-round, though early spring draws crowds for cherry blossoms. Among the trees is a rare gyoiko-zakura with green buds, an ornamental variety developed in Kyoto during the Edo period.