Stroll around the peaceful Mountain Village of Yoshinoyama

Nara Prefecture , Japan

Stroll around the peaceful Mountain Village of Yoshinoyama

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About this experience

Yoshino, famous for its cherry blossoms, is also the birthplace of a mystic religion called Shugen-do that draws elements from Buddhism, Shintoism, and animism. While walking through this temple town you might be able to see practitioners clad in their peculiar costumes and hear the sound of the giant conch being blown.

The three fierce-looking main statues of Zao-do Hall are exhibited only for a limited period of time a year in spring and in fall. We can look at them really closely and in peace and quiet.

Moreover we will visit a sweets shop that makes a special kind of sweet typical of this region and the gorgeous room where emperors ruled from 1336 to 1392.

Nature, culture, and history all come together in this exciting and extraordinary tour that will give you new insights into Japan.

Available options

Mountain Village Yoshino

Availability

What's included

Guide fee

Detailed itinerary

After climbing up a slope by bus and on foot, we will arrive at the village of Yoshino which has developed on a ridge about 300 m above sea level. As we walk on the street lined with shops on the right and left, we will reach the imposing temple gate Nio (national treasure) with two powerful statues of Kongo Rikishi (fierce guardian gods) in it.

The biggest building in the precincts of Kinpusen-ji Temple is the Zao-do Hall (national treasure) which is said to be the second largest wooden building in Japan. One wonders how people built this huge structure up on a mountain in the 9th century.

Mountain monks of Shugen-do train and discipline themselves here and pray for people’s peace of mind. Devotional services take place every morning and evening, and we will watch the powerful Goma (fire) offering starting at 11:00 am.

From spring and in fall, the 7-meter tall, blue-skinned statues of Yao Gongen, the protector deities of the Yoshino area, can be seen by the public.

As we descend 460 steps from Kimpusen-ji Temple, we arrive at Noten Okami Shrine where the deity in charge of brain and head is enshrined. Various other deities are worshiped along the way. It’s a very special feeling descending into the bottom of the valley. This shrine/temple is a unique fusion of Buddhism and Shintoism.

It's hard work to climb up the stairs again, so let’s take a break on the way.

Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves are a renowned Nara specialty. Your guide can tell you why this kind of sushi is popular in Nara.

When entering the old Shrine building you can see the lavishly decorated room where the Emperors of the southern court used to work. This place is also known as the site where the general of tragedy, Minamoto-no Yoshitsune, parted with his mistress, a story made into a famous Kabuki play. The general’s beautiful armor is displayed here.

Visit Nakai Shunpudo and observe the making of arrowroot cake. White arrowroot powder is transformed into a transparent sweet with a simple but rich taste. Eating sweets while overlooking the mountains of Yoshino will make your fatigue disapper.

Afterwards we will walk back to Yoshino station, from where we’ll return to Osaka, Kyoto, or Nara on the 16:34 express.

What's not included

Lunch

Entrance fees

Bus, cable car fees

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Quite a lot of walking on steep slopes

Meeting point

From Osaka Abenobashi: take the Kintetsu express bound for Yoshino leaving at 8:20 and arriving at 9:52.

From Kyoto: take the Kintetsu express bound for Kashiharajingu-mae at 7:42. Change at Kashiharajingu-mae for the express bound for Yoshino leaving at 9:00 and arriving at 9:52.

During cherry blossom viewing season in April trains are very crowded.

About Nara Prefecture

Nara Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage. As the first permanent capital of Japan, it boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the famous Nara Park with its friendly deer and the iconic Todai-ji Temple housing the Great Buddha.

Top Attractions

Todai-ji Temple

Todai-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous temples. It houses the Great Buddha (Daibutsu), a massive bronze statue of Buddha that is a symbol of Nara.

Historical/Religious 1.5 to 2 hours ¥600

Nara Park

Nara Park is famous for its friendly wild deer, which are considered messengers of the Shinto gods. The park is a beautiful green space with scenic walking paths and historic temples.

Nature/Cultural 1 to 2 hours Free (¥200 for deer crackers)

Kasuga Taisha Shrine

Kasuga Taisha is a renowned Shinto shrine with a history dating back to 768 AD. It is famous for its lanterns, which are donated by worshippers and hang from the shrine's buildings.

Religious/Cultural 1 to 1.5 hours Free (¥500 for the Treasure Museum)

Nara National Museum

The Nara National Museum houses a vast collection of Buddhist art and artifacts, providing insight into Japan's religious and cultural history.

Museum/Cultural 1 to 1.5 hours ¥700

Isuien Garden

Isuien Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden with a history dating back to the Edo period. It offers stunning views of Mount Wakakusa and the surrounding city.

Nature/Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour ¥310

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kakinoha-zushi

Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a traditional Nara delicacy with a unique flavor and aroma

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and rice, may contain allergens

Miso-ni

A comforting miso-based soup with tofu, vegetables, and sometimes meat, reflecting Nara's Buddhist culinary traditions

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available, may contain soy

Kudzu-mochi

A traditional Japanese sweet made from kudzu starch, often served with kinako (roasted soybean flour) and kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup)

Dessert Vegetarian, may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mount Yoshino Cycling around Nara Park Tea ceremony at a traditional tea house Strolling through Isuien Garden Visiting historic temples and shrines Participating in a traditional craft workshop Visiting hot springs (onsen) in nearby areas Enjoying winter illuminations at temples

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)

Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage. These seasons provide comfortable weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Expect large crowds and higher prices for accommodations.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Nara is a very safe destination with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour guides and vendors

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 50 km from Nara city center
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 35 km from Nara city center

By train

Nara Station, Kintetsu Nara Station

By bus

Nara Station Bus Terminal, Kintetsu Nara Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The Nara City Loop Bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around. Buses are frequent and easy to use, with English announcements and signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nara Park and Todai-ji Area Nakatanicho Sanjo Dori

Day trips

Asuka Village

15 km from Nara • Half day to full day

Asuka Village is a historic site with ancient tombs, temples, and ruins, offering a glimpse into Japan's ancient past. It is known as the birthplace of Japanese civilization and the first permanent capital of Japan.

Mount Yoshino

25 km from Nara • Full day

Mount Yoshino is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms in the spring and beautiful autumn foliage. It is also a sacred site with numerous temples and shrines, including the famous Kinpusen-ji Temple.

Osaka

40 km from Nara • Full day

Osaka is a vibrant city with a mix of modern attractions, historic sites, and delicious street food. It offers a diverse range of experiences, from shopping and dining to cultural and historical exploration.

Festivals

Nara Tokae Shogyo Festival • April 1st Nara Matsuri • October (second weekend) Shinji-kawase Festival • July 14th-15th

Pro tips

Visit Todai-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere
Buy deer crackers (shika senbei) to feed the friendly deer in Nara Park, but be cautious and follow the park's guidelines
Consider purchasing a Kintetsu Railway Pass for unlimited travel on Kintetsu lines, which can be cost-effective for tourists
Explore Nara-machi, the old town, for a glimpse into traditional Japanese architecture and local crafts
Try kakinoha-zushi, a unique Nara delicacy made with sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves