Yoshinoyama
Information
MAP
Basic information
Please note that the information and photos provided here might be outdated, so always confirm before your visit.
Address | Yoshinoyama, Yoshino-cho, Yoshino-gun, Nara 639-3115, Japan |
Access | The starting point to Yoshino-yama is Yoshino Station on the Kintetsu Railway. Yoshino Station is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes from Kyoto Station by Kintetsu limited express (transfer at Kashihara-jingu-mae), 1 hour and 15 minutes from Abenobashi Station in Osaka by Kintetsu limited express, and 2 hours and 55 minutes from Kintetsu Nagoya Station by Kintetsu limited express (transfer at Yamato Yagi/Kashihara-jingu-mae). From Yoshino Station, it is convenient to take the ropeway to the summit. |
Phone | TEL 0746-32-1007(Yoshinoyama Tourist Association) |
Website | Japanese Website |
Recommended flowers | Cherry blossoms: early April to mid-April |
Highlights | Yoshinoyama is a gently sloping mountain 690 meters above sea level in Nara Prefecture. It has been a popular cherry blossom viewing spot since ancient times. Aristocrats in Kyoto often visited Yoshinoyama and loved its cherry blossoms. Today, there are approximately 30,000 cherry trees in Yoshinoya. In spring, the cherry trees begin to bloom in turn, starting from the foot of the mountain. Soon the entire mountain is enveloped in cherry blossoms, creating a magical world. |
Photos
Guide to Enjoyment
Introduction to Mount Yoshino
Rich in both natural beauty and cultural significance, Mount Yoshino has been celebrated in Japanese poetry and literature for centuries. Besides its fame for cherry blossoms, the mountain is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its association with mountain worship.
The Cherry Blossom Spectacle
The cascading cherry blossoms of Mount Yoshino are classified into several groups based on their elevation, allowing for a prolonged and tiered blooming period.
Cherry Blossom Viewing Areas
Shimo Senbon (Lower Area)
– This is the base of the mountain, offering early blooms and several temples and shrines.
Naka Senbon (Middle Area)
– Home to the town of Yoshino and Yoshino Jingu Shrine, blossoms here bloom slightly later than the lower area.
Kami Senbon (Upper Area)
– This area provides panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and blossoms below.
Oku Senbon (Inner Area)
– The highest part of the mountain, where blossoms bloom the latest, offering a peaceful viewing experience away from the crowds.
Visitor’s Guide
Reaching Mount Yoshino
The Kintetsu Yoshino Line brings visitors directly to the base of the mountain. From there, visitors can hike or take buses to various viewing areas.
Exploring Beyond the Blossoms
Mount Yoshino is also home to numerous historic temples and shrines, including Kinpusenji Temple, which houses Japan’s second-largest wooden structure.
Nearby Attractions
Yoshimizu Shrine
– A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ties to ancient poetry and history.
Yoshino Mikumari Shrine
– Dedicated to the deity of water and safe childbirth.