Mount Yoshino in Yoshino-Kumano National Park is a must-visit destination for cherry blossom enthusiasts. Home to over 30,000 ancient trees, some dating back 1,300 years, the area offers breathtaking views of blooming sakura. Visitors can also explore shrines and temples, hike miles of trails, and ride an aerial tramway for a bird’s eye view.
While Japan’s cherry blossom season is renowned globally, many travelers focus on Tokyo and Kyoto. However, Mount Yoshino is one of Japan’s most iconic hanami spots. Located 55 miles southeast of Osaka, the area is accessible only by car, but its beauty makes it well worth the trip.
The five-mile-long mountain ridge is dominated by cherry blossoms, with each section boasting around 1,000 trees. The sections are divided into Shimo Senbon at the base, Naka Senbon in the middle, Kami Senbon at the top, and Oku Senbon. While temperatures dictate when the trees bloom, Mount Yoshino’s unique slope ensures that travelers can catch some blossoms.
Beyond cherry blossoms, visitors will discover ancient shrines and temples, hiking trails, and hanami parks. The Shimo section features a scenic aerial tramway, while the Naka section is home to Kinpusenji Temple and Yoshimizu Shrine. The Kami section offers stunning views from the Hanayagura Observation Point, accessible by a one-hour hike.
In conclusion, Mount Yoshino’s cherry blossom season is a spectacle not to be missed. Even for those visiting during non-blooming seasons, the park’s trails and shrines are worth exploring.
Source: https://www.travelandleisure.com/mount-yoshino-japan-cherry-blossom-season-11688567