Mt. Yoshino is acclaimed as the best spot to see cherry blossoms in all of Japan. In the spring, the entire mountain is washed with flowering trees as they bloom from the Shimosenbon (the lower 1,000 trees) at the foothills up to the Okusembon (the inner 1,000 trees).
From spring into summer, the hills are covered with hydrangeas in bloom, and in summer this spot is beloved as a nature escape for “shinrin yoku” (lit. forest bathing) beneath the verdant branches.
Of course, it’s also gorgeous during the season of autumn leaves. The natural altitude difference means that you can see the gradient as the trees bloom from the summit to the foothills. During the autumn leaves season, many enjoy taking a hike around the local temples.
In winter, the peak is hugged by a blanket of snow. Many of the historic, famous sites, including the World Heritage Site Kimpusenji Temple are especially beautiful in a shroud of snow.
Mt. Yoshino is especially popular for its many events held across the year, including illuminations during the cherry blossom and autumn leaves seasons, and the Tanabata Festival in summer.
Highlights
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The best spot to see cherryblossoms in Japan.
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Lush nature to behold across all four seasons.
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Illuminations available during the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves seasons.
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Multiple events held across the year.