Yoshino Mountain, adorned with approximately 30,000 cherry trees, is a popular destination for those seeking a wonderful springtime experience.
This magnificent mountain has been of great sacred significance for ages, and its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 confirms its profound cultural importance.
Visitors can revel in the gradual emergence of delicate pink blossoms as they journey from the entrance at Shimo Senbon to Oku Senbon, with the added allure of an enchanting nighttime viewing experience.
The video I’ve selected from YouTube is right here.
Tourist Attractions and Activities
Yoshino Mountain, situated at the heart of Nara Prefecture, boasts a ridge that stretches north to south for about 8 kilometers, resembling the back of a horse. It has been a well-known cherry blossom spot since ancient times, captivating many with its beautiful scenery.
This scenic area has been loved by poets and still continues to mesmerize people to this day.
Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom: Best Time to Visit
With around 30,000 cherry blossom trees covering the valleys and ridges of Yoshino Mountain, the best time to see them in full bloom is typically from early to late April.
The mountain has also been a place of traditional religion since ancient times, where religious practices are still conducted today.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
In July 2004, “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range,” which encompasses Yoshino Mountain, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nanamagari-Saka: Witnessing the First Cherry Blossoms
To witness the first cherry blossoms in bloom, make your way up the steep slope of Yoshino Mountain known as “Nanamagari-Saka,” located just a few hundred meters from Kintetsu Yoshino Station.
This area, also referred to as “Shimosenbon,” is illuminated during the peak viewing period from early to mid-April.
Upon reaching the top after a 30-minute climb, you will find yourself at the perfect vantage point called “Shoken Koutaigou-Onodachiato,” where you can feast your eyes on the spectacular vistas of the entire region. Whether on a clear morning when the cherry blossoms are bathed in sunlight, or on a foggy day when the blossoms are shrouded in mist, the view is sure to leave you in awe.
Nakasenbon Area: Ropeway and World Heritage Sites
For those who find the climb too strenuous, there is a ropeway that takes you to the middle of the mountain, where the “Nakasenbon” area is located. This area is usually in full bloom from early to mid-April and boasts the world heritage site of Kinpusen-ji temple.
A highly recommended spot to visit in this area is the Yoshimizu Shrine, another world heritage site located just beyond Kinpusen-ji temple. Here, you can witness the panoramic view of “Ichimoku Senbon,” the grand cherry blossom scenery that encompasses both the Nakasenbon and Kamisenbon areas.
Tounan-in and Tahou Sakura: Early Bloom Wonders
If you happen to arrive before the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, don’t worry. Instead, head over to “Tounan-in,” which is situated near Yoshimizu Shrine.
During that time of the year, you may be fortunate enough to witness the stunning sight of the “Tahou Sakura,” also known as weeping cherry blossoms.
These cherry blossoms bloom in perfect harmony with the pagoda in the temple grounds and are a sight to behold.
Daitou-no-miya Gyoutokuhi Hinomi-yagura: A Magnificent Night View
Venture deeper into the area and you’ll come across the magnificent Daitou-no-miya Gyoutokuhi Hinomi-yagura, which is lit up at night. As you enter the area with over a thousand cherry blossom trees, the terrain becomes steeper and more challenging.
The best time to see the blossoms in their full splendor is usually from early to mid-April. Beyond this, you’ll find the Hanayagura Observation Deck and Yoshino Kamisenbon Observation Deck, both of which offer enchanting scenery of the cherry blossom scenery in Yoshino.
If the weather is clear, you may even catch a glimpse of nearby Mount Kongo, situated on the border of Nara and Osaka prefectures. In the evening, the illuminated cherry blossom trees and temples along the ridge create a magical and unforgettable sight that will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip to Japan.
Special Cherry Blossom Trees in Yoshino
It’s worth mentioning that there are several well-known cherry trees that bloom at different times throughout the season. For example, at the Sakura-motobō Temple, you’ll find a weeping cherry tree called Yumemizakura, which is said to have been named by Emperor Tenmu (? – 686） after dreaming about it. This particular cherry blossom usually reaches full bloom in late March, a bit earlier than most others.
Ten-nin-zakura: A Late Bloomer
Conversely, the Ten-nin-zakura, another weeping cherry tree located at Chikurin-in Goten, blooms a bit later than most cherry blossoms, usually in late April. Legend has it that Toyotomi Hideyoshi planted this tree during his visit to the area for cherry blossom viewing.
Oku-Senbon Area: The Late Bloomers
The last area we’ll introduce is the Oku-Senbon area, the deepest part of Yoshino Mountain. The cherry blossoms here bloom the latest, usually reaching their peak in mid to late April. At the very end of this area, you’ll find a small hut believed to have been the home of the poet Saigyo Hoshi (1118-1190).
Mesmerizing Night Illumination: Yoshino's Magical Charm
The cherry blossom illumination on Yoshino Mountain happens every year from late March to mid-April, between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM. Witnessing the Senbon cherry trees illuminated at night is a magical experience, and will steal your heart with their unique and elegant charm.
Plan Your Trip: Timing and Scenic Variations
How was that? The scenery of Yoshino Mountain’s cherry blossoms varies depending on the timing of your visit, so try to plan your trip while imagining the scenery you want to see. Check the official website of Yoshino Town for the latest bloom information.
Culture, History, and Traditions
En no Gyōja and the Sacred Cherry Blossoms
The cherry blossoms that paint Yoshino mountain in delicate shades of pink may appear to be a natural phenomenon or perhaps even intentionally planted for cherry blossom viewing.
However, their roots can be traced back to ancient Japan and En no Gyōja, the founding father of Japan’s unique mountain worship religion. Roughly 1,300 years ago, while training on Yoshino mountain, En no Gyōja utilized cherry trees to create sculptures.
His followers later dedicated the cherry blossoms as sacred trees, which led to the cultivation of around 200 different types of cherry blossoms on Yoshino mountain today.
Yoshino's Poetic Legacy in Manyoshu
Yoshino has been immortalized in more than 80 of the 4,500 poems found in Japan’s oldest collection of poetry, the “Manyoshu.” Back then, Yoshino was known not for cherry blossoms, but as a mystical place where gods dwelled, or a location renowned for snow.
However, over time, cherry blossoms on Yoshino mountain began appearing in poetry, and now it is a popular destination for people throughout Japan who want to experience the stunning cherry blossom scenery during the blooming season.
Historical Cherry Blossom Viewing Event at Yoshimizu Shrine
In addition to the cherry blossoms, there are several other noteworthy attractions to explore in this area.
During the Azuchi-Momoyama period in 1594, warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi made a visit with a retinue of 5,000 followers and stayed for five days. Among the guests was Tokugawa Ieyasu, who later became shogun. During the visit, a grand cherry blossom viewing event was held at Yoshimizu Shrine, attended by notable figures like Ukita Hideie, Maeda Toshiie, Date Masamune, and tea masters.
The precious artifacts from this event, such as Noh masks and golden folding screens, can still be viewed at the shrine, making it a must-see attraction.
Dining Guide
In the mountains of Yoshino, Japanese confectionery and souvenir shops offer a delectable experience to travelers. These shops sell wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) made with cherry blossoms, kuzumochi, kakinohazushi, and other delicacies. Visitors can enjoy not only the scenic views but also the exquisite taste of these treats, making their trip a truly multisensory adventure.
Cherry Blossom Yokan at "Kondo"
At the entrance of Yoshino near Kintetsu Yoshino Station, you will find “Kondo“, a Japanese sweets shop that offers cherry blossom yokan, a unique and flavorful Japanese sweet. Unlike the traditional yokan made with sweet brown beans called azuki, Kondo’s version includes mountain cherry blossoms and matcha, among other ingredients.
Of particular note is their beautiful cherry blossom yokan, which features a cherry blossom suspended in a clear jelly on the top layer, Yoshino kudzu transparent jelly in the middle layer, and a white bean paste base with plenty of salt-pickled cherry leaves on the bottom layer, creating a stunning work of art.
Cherry Blossom Yokan at "Funagata-ya"
If you visit between March and May, you can also purchase cherry blossom yokan made with mountain cherry blossoms at “Funagata-ya” located in front of the Yoshino ropeway station, at the entrance to the Nakasenbon area.
"Yasokichi" - Freshly Made Kudzu Sweets
Around Tonan-in Temple in Nakasenbon, there are several sweet shops that use kudzu as their main ingredient. At “Yasokichi” , the sweets are made to order, allowing you to enjoy the freshly cut texture. During the winter season, you can also try their limited edition kuzumochi, which can be enjoyed with black syrup if you prefer sweeter foods.
"Houkonan" - Original Kuzu Confectionery
At “Houkonan“, you can try an original kuzu confectionery called “Kuzu-Hana,” which is made by wrapping freshly cooked bean paste with fresh kuzumochi. The shop features a pure Japanese-style interior and terrace seating.
"Nakai Shunpudo" - Finest Yoshino Kudzu Sweets
“Nakai Shunpudo” also serves kuzu sweets and kuzuyu, a hot drink made with kudzu powder. They use the finest Yoshino kudzu to bring out its natural flavor, and make it to order, giving you a unique and valuable taste that cannot be found elsewhere.
Delicious Kakinohazushi
If you’re in the mood for a simple but delicious sushi, try kakinohazushi, which is made with only mackerel, salmon, sushi rice, and salt-pickled persimmon leaves. “Hyoutaro” offers kakinohazushi that emphasizes the quality of the ingredients. If you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group, “Daiyo” offers the option to purchase just one piece, making it a convenient choice.
Savoring Unique Japanese Foods
If you find yourself getting tired from walking up the hill, these shops provide a welcome respite and a chance to try some unique and delicious Japanese foods. Travelers may find the Japanese sweets made with cherry blossoms and kudzu, as well as the simple but flavorful kakinohazushi, particularly intriguing.
Accommodation
There’s a diverse range of lodging options available near Yoshino Mountain, including hotels, ryokans, and guesthouses. You can find a complete list of these accommodations on the official Yoshino town website.
Since you’ll be hiking the mountain, be prepared to exert some physical effort and consider staying in the Naka Senbon to Oku Senbon area to minimize your travel time.
This way, you’ll have a better chance of experiencing the beautiful mountain cherry blossoms during the early morning or night light-up event. Keep in mind that cherry blossom season is a peak time, and accommodation costs can range from 20,000 to 50,000 yen, so it’s advisable to plan ahead and make reservations.
If you can’t find accommodation during this busy season or prefer more budget-friendly options, you can look for lodgings in Kyoto, Osaka, or Nara city, which can be reached by train in about 1.5 hours and offer a wide range of options to suit your needs.
Moreover, you can easily search and book accommodations in Yoshino Mountain’s vicinity, as well as in convenient areas such as Nara, Kyoto, and Osaka, through various online booking sites.
Transportation
When it comes to accessing Yoshino Mountain, the best option from major cities is to use the Kintetsu line.
From Kintetsu Kyoto Station, you can take an express train to Yoshino Station. Although you need to transfer at Kashiharajingu-mae Station, the journey takes around 2 hours and costs approximately 3,000 yen.
Access from Nara City
If you’re staying in Nara city, you can access Yoshino by transferring at Kashiharajingu-mae Station from Kintetsu Yamato-Saidaiji Station. This journey takes about 1.5 hours and costs around 1,000 yen.
Access from Osaka City
If you’re staying in Osaka city, you can directly access Yoshino from Kintetsu Osaka Abenobashi Station in about 1.5 hours at a cost of approximately 1,200 yen.
Access from Nagoya City
Even if you’re staying in Nagoya city, which is farther from the Kansai region, you can still access Yoshino in about 3 hours for just under 5,000 yen.
To get there, take an express train from Kintetsu Nagoya Station toward Osaka and transfer at Yamato-Yagi Station and Kashiharajingu-mae Station.
Getting Around Yoshino
Once you arrive at Yoshino Station, you’ll find yourself During the cherry blossom season, a ropeway operates from approximately 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.in the Shimo Senbon area that will take you up the steep hill to Naka Senbon. Outside of the season, buses replace the ropeway, but they run less frequently, about once per hour, and the fare for both is 450 yen one-way.
Taking Buses to Oku Senbon
For those who prefer not to climb the steep hill from Naka Senbon to Oku Senbon, local buses are available.
During cherry blossom season, the operating section from Takagiyama Observatory Bus Stop to Oku Senbon-guchi Bus Stop is limited, so be careful as it differs from the year-round section. Also, the buses to Oku Senbon do not stop at the Takagiyama Observatory Bus Stop en route.
The fare is approximately 400 yen one-way, and it’s recommended to prepare coins in advance, as high-denomination banknotes may not be accepted on the bus.
Budget and Transportation Tips
The cherry blossoms on Yoshino Mountain are truly stunning, with trees in full bloom as far as the eye can see. To fully appreciate the mountain’s natural beauty, it’s best to take a relaxed day trip and explore the various areas, from Shimo Senbon to Oku Senbon, enjoying the diverse sights from early morning until the blossoms are lit up at night.
There are many dining options located along the roads near Kintetsu Yoshino Station and the Naka Senbon area, where you can take a break and recharge while exploring the town at your leisure.
Be sure to try some of the local delicacies like matcha tea, kuzu mochi, and kakinoha sushi, not only to experience the unique flavors of the region, but also to save on dining out costs.
Weather Guide
Yoshino Town experiences average temperatures ranging from approximately 9 to 17 degrees Celsius during April, with chilly mornings and evenings.
Cloudy days are common, occurring around half of the month, while rainfall is observed about 30% of the time, making it essential to prepare for wet weather with appropriate rain gear. The season changes occur around the cherry blossom blooming period and can cause a temperature shift of about 10 degrees Celsius before and after the rain. It’s advisable to wear clothing that can be adjusted accordingly.
Additionally, visitors should wear comfortable clothing and shoes as there are steep slopes to navigate.
