Mitarai Valley, one of Nara’s great natural wonders, is an ideal place for hiking in spring and autumn and for escaping the heat in summer.
Ryuougabuchi Pond / Nara
Ryuougabuchi is a spring-fed pond located in Uda, northeastern Nara. The surface of the water reflects the surrounding scenery, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Matabei Zakura (又兵衛桜) / Nara
Matabei Zakura, beloved, giant weeping cherry tree, 13-meter tall, over 300 years old, named after the famous samurai warrior is located in Nara Prefecture.
Daibutsu-ike Pond (大仏池) / Nara
Daibutsu-ike Pond, located at the back of the Todai-ji Temple in Nara. Ginkgo and maple trees around the pond are changing its color in autumn.
Takada Senbon Sakura (高田千本桜) / Nara
A thousand cherry blossom trees bloom along the river in Takada city. A pale pink “sakura” tunnel stretches around 2.5km to Onaka park.
Yoshino-yama (吉野山) / Nara
Yoshino is perhaps Japan’s most famous cherry blossom site. 30,000 wild trees spread over the dips and peaks of Mt. Yoshino in the second to third week of April.