Official Author

有田 和義（Kazuyoshi Arita）

■Contents Introduction Why Zao's Autumn Colour Changes With an 800-Metre Difference in Elevation Juhyo Kogen Station Sits at 1,331 m, Jizo Sancho Station at 1,661 m An Autumn Where the Colour at Your Feet and the Colour Overhead Are Out of Step When Zao Ropeway's Autumn Leaves Reach Their Peak The Colour Moves From the Summit Down to the Hot Spring Village A Gradient of Yellow, Orange, Red and Brick Typical Peak Timing by Elevation How to Check This Year's Colour Before You Go Riding to the Summit on Two Connected Sections The Sanroku Line and the Sancho Line Make Up the Two Sections Juhyo Kogen Station, the Transfer Point The Gondolas Used on the Sancho Line Autumn Slopes Filling the Window Hyakumannin Terrace, a Short Walk From Juhyo Kogen Station Hyakumannin Terrace, Just Steps From Juhyo Kogen Station What You Actually See From Hyakumannin Terrace You Cannot Drive to Zao Terrace, So the Ropeway Is How You Get There Zao Jizo and the Summit Views at Jizo Sancho Station Jizo Sancho Station at 1,661 m Why There Is a Jizo Statue at the Summit The Weather Decides What You See Walking the Official Courses at Iroha Numa and Kanshodaira Trekking Courses for Beginners and General Walkers Iroha Numa, a Wetland Dotted With Dozens of Ponds What to Bring Before You Walk Guided Custom Trekking Fares, Operating Hours and Ticket Rules Fares by Section and Fare Categories Operating Hours and the Last Ride Up Luggage and Pets Discounts and Group Travel Ticket Refunds The Three Ropeway Systems at Zao Onsen and How They Differ Choosing Among the Three Systems by Where You Want to Go What to Wear and What the Weather Does Up the Mountain The Higher You Go, the Colder It Gets Dress in Layers You Can Adjust Service Can Be Suspended by Weather. Bring Rain Gear Too Getting to Zao Ropeway, and Where to Park By Bus From Yamagata Station Driving There, and Parking Coming From the Sendai Area A One-Day Model Course for Zao's Autumn Colour From Morning to Evening A Soak in Zao Onsen on the Way Back Where Okama Is, and How to Reach It Frequently Asked Questions About Zao Ropeway's Autumn Leaves Q1. How long does it take to reach the summit? Q2. Is the foliage still worth seeing in rain or fog? Q3. Can you see the autumn leaves and the juhyo at the same time? Q4. Is a round trip only as far as Juhyo Kogen Station worth it for the foliage? In Summary, Going to See the Gap an 800-Metre Climb Creates Show more Introduction At the Zao Ropeway in Yamagata City, the autumn colour begins high on the summit and takes about a month to work its way down to the hot spring village. The Tohoku region occupies the northern part of Honshu, Japan's main island, and Yamagata Prefecture sits near its centre. Zao Onsen lies in the mountains on the edge of Yamagata City, the prefectural capital. The Zao Ropeway climbs from there towards the summit, spanning about 800 metres between base and top, and the autumn colour works its way down from the summit in late September to the hot spring village around late October, reaching the highest elevations first. This guide covers when each elevation band peaks, fares and operating hours, the trekking courses on the mountain, the differences between the three ropeway systems at Zao Onsen, and how to get there from Yamagata Station. By the end, you may well find yourself wanting to see Zao's autumn colour for yourself. Why Zao's Autumn Colour Changes With an 800-Metre Difference in Elevation When people plan a trip to see autumn leaves, most start by searching the name of the spot alongside the words "best time to see". At Zao, though, that search returns more than one answer. Visit the same mountain on the same day, and the colour is at a different stage above your head than it is at your feet. Photo: Yamagata City, Yamagata / A Zao Ropeway gondola spanning a climb of about 800 metres Juhyo Kogen Station Sits at 1,331 m, Jizo Sancho Station at 1,661 m The Zao Ropeway runs from Zao Sanroku Station via Juhyo Kogen Station up to Jizo Sancho Station. Juhyo Kogen Station, the transfer point, stands at 1,331 metres, and Jizo Sancho Station, the upper terminus, at 1,661 metres. In terms of vertical rise, the Sanroku Line climbs 464 metres and the Sancho Line 329 metres, which comes to roughly 800 metres for the two sections combined. That is more height than the 634-metre Tokyo Skytree, covered by changing gondolas once. An Autumn Where the Colour at Your Feet and the Colour Overhead Are Out of Step An 800-metre difference in elevation brings a substantial difference in temperature. That is why Zao's foliage does not turn all at once, but descends in order from the summit to the hot spring village. Arrive on the right day in October and you can see bare branches at the summit, peak colour on the middle slopes, and green still holding on down in the village. Three layers at once. Seeing the beginning and the end of autumn on a single mountain is the most interesting thing about a Zao autumn. When Zao Ropeway's Autumn Leaves Reach Their Peak So which elevation will be at its best on the day you go? Here is the order in which the colour comes down, from Jizo Sancho Station to the Zao Onsen village, with dates attached. Photo: Zao mountain range / Slopes that turn colour from the summit downwards The Colour Moves From the Summit Down to the Hot Spring Village Colour appears first around Jizo Sancho Station. It starts there in late September, works its way slowly down the mountain, and reaches the area around Zao Sanroku Station by late October. At the lower elevations it varies by year, and some colour can linger into early November. The whole journey down takes about a month, with the higher ground peaking first from late September through late October. How quickly it moves, however, shifts considerably with the weather that year. In 2025, for instance, the area around the summit of Mt. Jizo had already lost its leaves by 21 October. Once your dates are set, check this year's conditions using the methods below. A Gradient of Yellow, Orange, Red and Brick Zao's autumn colour is described as yellow and orange, red and brick, because several colours mix together across the slope rather than the hillside turning a single shade. Japanese beech and a range of other trees each change at their own pace, which leaves the slope mottled. And you get to look down on that gradient from directly above. The way the colours layer and spread is nothing like looking up at foliage from the ground. That single fact is why the ropeway is inseparable from autumn at Zao. Typical Peak Timing by Elevation Usual timings are as follows. Around Jizo Sancho Station 【Elevation】1,661 m 【Usual peak】Colour starts in late September, peaking around early October Around Juhyo Kogen Station, Iroha Numa and Kanshodaira 【Elevation】1,331 m 【Usual peak】Early to mid October Zao Onsen village and around Zao Sanroku Station 【Elevation】The base area, where the hot spring village sits 【Usual peak】Around late October Please treat the above as typical timings. They shift by location and by year, so check the official website before you set out. 【Reference】Yamagata City Tourism Association How to Check This Year's Colour Before You Go Colour comes earlier or later depending on the weather that year. That is where the live camera near the summit comes in. You can see the colour and the sky on screen, so try opening it on the morning you leave. The Yamagata City Tourism Association's "Web Yamagata Juni Kagetsu" also updates its foliage information regularly. Zao Ropeway's official Facebook and Instagram accounts post updates on alpine flowers in bloom, so you can find out what is flowering up on the mountain as well. One more thing to look forward to on the day. Riding to the Summit on Two Connected Sections Once you have settled on when to go, the next question is the ride itself. The Zao Ropeway looks like a single line but is actually made up of two sections, and that distinction matters when you are choosing your destination at the ticket machine. Photo: Juhyo Kogen Station / The sign at the mid-mountain station where the two sections connect The Sanroku Line and the Sancho Line Make Up the Two Sections Zao Sanroku Station to Juhyo Kogen Station is the Sanroku Line; Juhyo Kogen Station to Jizo Sancho Station is the Sancho Line. The ride takes 7 minutes on the Sanroku Line and 10 minutes on the Sancho Line. Together, that is 17 minutes one way for a whole mountain's worth of height. Juhyo Kogen Station, the Transfer Point Take the Sanroku Line and you arrive first at Juhyo Kogen Station. From there you change to the Sancho Line for Jizo Sancho Station. You can also get off at Juhyo Kogen Station and go no further. Fares are listed separately for each station, so how high you go is yours to decide based on the time and energy you have that day. The Gondolas Used on the Sancho Line The Sancho Line uses a type of gondola called a Funitel, whose defining feature is that the two ropes are set further apart than the width of the cabin. The name is a French coinage combining Funiculaire, meaning funicular railway, and Téléphérique, meaning aerial ropeway. Very few installations in Japan use this system, and Zao was the second in the country, after Hakone Ropeway. Because the ropes sit further apart, there is less sway when passing towers and in strong wind, and you can take in the view from your seat. There is also no step or gap between the platform and the cabin, so boarding takes no particular care. Autumn Slopes Filling the Window The doors close, the gondola starts moving, and the slope opens up right outside the window. A band of yellow shading into orange runs on below your eye line, filling the view with foliage. Plenty of passengers keep a camera raised the whole way, and the 17-minute ride turns into viewing time in its own right.(0:52) On the way down, the same window shows something else. Where the slope breaks, the roofs of the hot spring village appear. Going up you watch the mountainside come towards you; coming down you look out over a town falling away behind. The same 17 minutes leave two quite different impressions.(3:13) And partway up, there is a place to sit down and take it all in. Hyakumannin Terrace, a Short Walk From Juhyo Kogen Station Step off at Juhyo Kogen Station, walk a short way, and you come out somewhere with benches and chairs lined up facing the slope. This is Hyakumannin Terrace. Photo: Hyakumannin Terrace / Benches and chairs arranged to face the slope Hyakumannin Terrace, Just Steps From Juhyo Kogen Station Hyakumannin Terrace is one of the Zao Terrace facilities maintained by Zao Ropeway. It sits just a short walk from Juhyo Kogen Station, the upper end of the Sanroku Line, close enough that you can head straight there from the platform without changing into hiking boots. Covered benches sit alongside chairs angled towards the slope, so you can pick your spot to suit the day: under the roof when the sun is strong, out on the chairs when there is no wind.(1:59) What You Actually See From Hyakumannin Terrace The terrace faces downhill. Closest to you are the trees in colour; beyond them the ski slopes fall away in a gentle sweep; and furthest out, the buildings of Zao Onsen sit small in the distance. Because you are looking down from 1,331 metres, the whole slope fits into a single view. The scenery that streamed past the gondola window is now yours to follow end to end from a seat. Foliage at this height usually peaks between early and mid October. It is the band that turns just as the colour at the summit is finishing, so if you are visiting in the middle of the month, spending your time here gives you a denser display than riding straight through to the top. All it asks is that you sit down and look ahead, which means families with small children and anyone who finds long walks difficult get exactly the same view as everyone else. The slope also makes an easy backdrop for portraits, and if you are after an Instagram-worthy shot, these front-row chairs are the place to take it. You Cannot Drive to Zao Terrace, So the Ropeway Is How You Get There Zao Terrace cannot be reached directly by car. Visitors take the Zao Ropeway instead, which means the view from here is something only gondola passengers get to receive. Even if you drive as far as Zao Onsen, you park at the base station and continue by gondola. Parking is covered in the access section later in this guide. Zao Jizo and the Summit Views at Jizo Sancho Station From Juhyo Kogen Station, one more section. Change to the Sancho Line and you arrive at the upper terminus, Jizo Sancho Station. The moment the doors open, the cold on your face tells you the height has changed. Photo: Jizo Sancho Station / Zao Jizo, visible in full outside the snow season Jizo Sancho Station at 1,661 m The highlights listed for this station are the Zao Natural Botanical Garden on Sanpo Kojin Yama, the Zao Jizo statue, and the trailheads for Mt. Jizo, Mt. Kumano and Mt. Karita. In other words, this station is both a place to look at the view and the entrance to the Zao mountain range on foot. Climbers with full gear and visitors out for a gentle stroll around the station step out of the same door. It is a mountain station through and through. Why There Is a Jizo Statue at the Summit Zao Jizo is enshrined about 100 metres from Jizo Sancho Station. Jizo is a figure of Buddhist devotion, enshrined across Japan as a protector of travellers and children. This particular statue was created in 1775. It is a seated figure 2.34 metres tall, carved from andesite, and is said to have taken 37 years to complete. Zao was long a centre of mountain worship, and the statue was placed at the summit as part of that tradition. After it was built, fewer people were lost on the mountain, and it came to be known as the Jizo that wards off misfortune. Kannon and Fudo Myoo stand to either side, and festivals are still held every year on 24 May and 24 September for protection from calamity and the granting of wishes. In winter the body disappears beneath the snow, and photographs from that season show only the upper half rising above the snowfield. During the autumn season you can take it in from the base to the crown of the head. For anyone who has only seen the winter pictures, the full height comes as a surprise. The Weather Decides What You See At 1,661 metres, you are at the height where clouds pass through. It can be clear at the base and misty at the summit, with the distant peaks softening until only the outline of the ridge remains. On the same day, what you see here and what you see from Hyakumannin Terrace can differ sharply. Jizo Sancho Station stands above the treeline, so nothing blocks the view, but when cloud moves in the whole scene turns white. Hyakumannin Terrace, surrounded by trees, keeps the foliage in front of you visible even in mist. For distant views, head for the summit; to be sure of seeing colour, stop at Juhyo Kogen Station. There is also a summit terrace at Jizo Sancho Station, with views across the Zao mountain range on a clear day. Plan to swap which station you linger at depending on the weather, and you will have somewhere worth being either way. Walking the Official Courses at Iroha Numa and Kanshodaira There are also proper paths to walk up on the mountain. They start from two places: Jizo Sancho Station, and the top of the Utopia Summer Lift, which you reach by transferring at Juhyo Kogen Station. Distances and times are published, so you can pick one that suits how you feel that day. Photo: Iroha Numa / A wooden boardwalk crossing the wetland Trekking Courses for Beginners and General Walkers The official trekking pages list the following six courses for beginners and general walkers, alongside others aimed at strong walkers. Beginner 【Iroha Numa Course】1.0 km on foot, about 1.0 hour 【Zao Natural Botanical Garden Loop】0.4 km on foot, about 0.5 hour 【Shigi no Yachi Numa Loop】2.0 km on foot, about 1.0 hour 【Mt. Jizo Loop】2.0 km on foot, about 1.5 hours General 【Zao Natural Botanical Garden and Mt. Jizo Loop】2.4 km on foot, about 2.0 hours 【Kanshodaira Loop】2.5 km on foot, about 1.5 hours The times are averages for an adult male. The Zao Natural Botanical Garden and Mt. Jizo courses start from Jizo Sancho Station. The Iroha Numa and Kanshodaira courses begin at the top of the Utopia Summer Lift, reached by transferring at Juhyo Kogen Station. Shigi no Yachi Numa lies on the Zao Onsen village side. Iroha Numa, a Wetland Dotted With Dozens of Ponds The easiest of them to walk is the Iroha Numa course. To get there, stay off the Sancho Line at Juhyo Kogen Station and head for the Utopia Summer Lift beside it instead. The top of the lift is the entrance to Kanshodaira, and following the signs from there brings you to Iroha Numa. Iroha Numa is a subalpine wetland scattered with several dozen ponds of varying size. The walk covers 1.0 kilometre and takes about 1.0 hour. A wooden boardwalk and a rest area cross the marsh, letting you walk out over the water. Beech woods spread out on either side of the path, and once the leaves are down, it is all pale trunks and open sky. The same path hands the lead role to something different depending on when you come.(2:20) What to Bring Before You Walk What you want is footwear and clothing suited to trekking, plus rain gear, since mountain weather changes easily even on courses that are mostly boardwalk. Crossing the mountain is treated differently. Visitors doing so are asked to fill in a climbing registration card at the summit station, which means riding up on a one-way ticket and walking back down is something to prepare for as a climb rather than a stroll. Guided Custom Trekking Walking an unfamiliar mountain with a guide is another option. Custom trekking starts at 15,000 yen for one guide, is available year-round, and must be booked at least five days in advance. Bookings go through the Zao Trekking Desk within the Zao Onsen Tourism Association. Learning the names of the flowers and trees as you go changes how much you notice in the same hour. Fares, Operating Hours and Ticket Rules Ride all the way to the summit, or stop partway? What decides it is the fare for each section and the time of the last service. The numbers you will need on the day are gathered here. All prices in this article are in Japanese yen. Photo: Zao Sanroku Station / The base-side gateway, where tickets are sold Fares by Section and Fare Categories Fares depend on how high you go. To Jizo Sancho Station (1,661 m) 【Adult】One way 2,200 yen / Round trip 4,400 yen 【Child】One way 1,100 yen / Round trip 2,200 yen To Juhyo Kogen Station (1,331 m) 【Adult】One way 1,200 yen / Round trip 2,200 yen 【Child】One way 600 yen / Round trip 1,100 yen Utopia Summer Lift 【Adult】One way 400 yen / Round trip 800 yen 【Child】One way 200 yen / Round trip 400 yen Fares are subject to change, so please check the official website before you set out. 【Reference】Zao Ropeway fares and operating information The categories are adult for junior high school age and above, child for elementary school age, and infant for pre-school age. If you plan to ride with a pre-school child, staff at the Zao Sanroku Station window can confirm how it is handled on the day. Operating Hours and the Last Ride Up Operating hours are 8:30 to 17:00 on the Sanroku Line and 8:45 to 16:45 on the Sancho Line, and the last upward departure for a return trip to Jizo Sancho Station leaves Zao Sanroku Station at 16:00. If you are heading to the summit, that 16:00 becomes the turning point of your day. The last downward times are posted at the station too, so a glance before you board means you can stop watching the clock up on the mountain. Extra runs operate at busy times. Luggage and Pets There are set rates for travelling with large items too. Luggage costs 400 yen per section for items up to 30 kilograms. Anything that will not sit on your lap is treated as a hand-carried item at 300 yen per section, with one set of skis or a snowboard carried free. If you leave items at the station, short-term storage costs 400 yen per item per day, rising to 600 yen a day from the sixth day. Pets may ride at the child fare during the period treated as the summer season, provided small breeds are placed entirely inside a hard case or similar carrier. Pets cannot ride during the winter season. Which period the autumn foliage season falls into varies by year, so if you want to bring one up with you, check the current arrangement on the official website. Assistance dogs, including guide dogs, hearing dogs and service dogs, ride free under Japan's Act on Assistance Dogs for Physically Disabled Persons. Discounts and Group Travel A 50 percent discount applies to holders of a physical disability certificate. Holders of a rehabilitation certificate and their carers also receive 50 percent off, with the carer discount applying where the company recognises that assistance is required. If you hold a certificate issued outside Japan, an enquiry before you travel will clarify how it is treated on the day. Group travel requires a reservation for parties of 20 or more, made by phone to Zao Sanroku Station (the number is listed in the facility information at the end of this article). The group discount applies to four sections for 20 people or more: 400 yen off the standard fare, 600 yen off the student fare, and 400 yen off the child fare for kindergarten children, with accompanying teachers riding free. Ticket Refunds The refund fee is 100 yen per ticket. Reservations are described only for group travel; individual visitors buy tickets at the window on the day. The Three Ropeway Systems at Zao Onsen and How They Differ Search for "ropeway" at Zao Onsen and three similarly named services come up. An aerial ropeway, or sakudo in Japanese, is the general term for a vehicle that carries cabins suspended from cables strung through the air, and it covers both ropeways and gondola lifts. All three have their own boarding points and their own destinations, so working backwards from where you want to go is the quickest way to sort them out. Note that the Zao Chuo Ropeway and the Zao Sky Cable are both operated by Zao Kanko Kaihatsu Co., Ltd. Photo: Zao Onsen / A hot spring village where bathhouses and inns line the slope Choosing Among the Three Systems by Where You Want to Go The first is the Zao Ropeway covered in this guide. Operated by Zao Ropeway Co., Ltd., it runs from Zao Sanroku Station via Juhyo Kogen Station to Jizo Sancho Station. This is the one to take for Hyakumannin Terrace, Zao Jizo, Iroha Numa and Kanshodaira. The second is the Zao Chuo Ropeway, which links Onsen Station and Torikabuto Station in 7 minutes 30 seconds. A large 101-passenger gondola covers a vertical rise of 524 metres, with the Zao Onsen townscape and the Yamagata Basin in view on the way up. A one-minute walk from Torikabuto Station brings you to Torikabuto Observatory, where Zao Daikokuten is enshrined. The third is the Zao Sky Cable. Four-passenger gondolas connect Uenodai Station and Chuo Kogen Station in about 8 minutes. Dokko Numa, the pond known for its emerald-green water, lies in this Chuo Kogen area, and Zao Daigongen stands in front of the station. Three deities have long been enshrined at Zao: Zao Jizo, Zao Daikokuten and Zao Daigongen. Each of the three ropeway systems leads to one of them, and some visitors ride all three specifically to complete the Zao Sandaijin pilgrimage. Zao Ropeway 【Boarding point】Zao Sanroku Station 【Main highlights】Hyakumannin Terrace, Zao Jizo, Zao Natural Botanical Garden, Iroha Numa, Kanshodaira 【Fare】Adult round trip 4,400 yen to Jizo Sancho Station / 2,200 yen to Juhyo Kogen Station Zao Chuo Ropeway 【Boarding point】Onsen Station 【Main highlights】Torikabuto Observatory, Zao Daikokuten, views over the Yamagata Basin 【Fare】Adult round trip 2,400 yen / Child round trip 1,200 yen Zao Sky Cable 【Boarding point】Uenodai Station 【Main highlights】Chuo Kogen, Dokko Numa, Zao Daigongen 【Fare】Adult round trip 2,400 yen / Child round trip 1,200 yen The Zao Chuo Ropeway and the Zao Sky Cable share a fare table, with one-way tickets at 1,300 yen for adults and 650 yen for children. These two can be closed for parts of the year, so if you are building an autumn plan around them, look up whether they are running that day. Fares and operating status are subject to change, so please check the official website before you set out. 【Reference】Zao Chuo Ropeway and Zao Sky Cable What to Wear and What the Weather Does Up the Mountain The summit, and the hot spring village down at the base. Even on the same day, the two feel notably different, and whether you bring an extra layer decides how long you can comfortably stay up there. The Higher You Go, the Colder It Gets Air temperature is generally said to fall by about 0.6°C for every 100 metres of elevation gained. On elevation alone, 800 metres works out to a difference of roughly 5°C, which is the background to why the Zao Onsen bus terminal and Jizo Sancho Station feel so unlike each other. Actual temperatures and how they feel also shift considerably with the weather, the wind and the sunshine on any given day. Checking the forecast for the summit area of Mt. Zao, rather than for central Yamagata City, makes it easier to settle on what to wear. Dress in Layers You Can Adjust If the temperature differs between top and bottom, clothing you can add and remove becomes a real ally. A mid-layer over a shirt, plus a windproof outer layer. Those two pieces handle the swing between a cool summit and a warm base. On the mountain in October, gloves and a knit hat make a noticeable difference to your hands and ears. If you plan to walk a trekking course, comfortable walking shoes are worth bringing too. Service Can Be Suspended by Weather. Bring Rain Gear Too Zao Ropeway sometimes suspends operations depending on weather conditions. You can check the status for the day on the operating information page of the official website before you leave. The official trekking information lists rain gear among the things to bring, and mountain weather does change easily. Pack a folding rain jacket or poncho and a sudden shower stops being a problem. Getting to Zao Ropeway, and Where to Park Zao Onsen is reachable from Yamagata Station on a single bus. With no transfers to make, the journey stays easy even on days when you are carrying a lot. Photo: Zao Onsen Bus Terminal / The hub where buses from Yamagata Station arrive By Bus From Yamagata Station The starting point is Yamagata Station, a stop on the Yamagata Shinkansen. The Shinkansen is Japan's high-speed rail network, and the ride from Tokyo Station to Yamagata Station takes roughly two and a half to three hours. Visitors arriving from overseas usually travel from a Tokyo airport to Tokyo Station or Ueno Station and transfer to the Shinkansen there. From Yamagata Station, Yamako Bus route Z90 runs from bus stop 1 in front of the station to the Zao Onsen bus terminal in about 37 minutes. From the bus terminal to Zao Sanroku Station is a walk of roughly 10 to 15 minutes, up a slope lined with public bathhouses and souvenir shops, through steam that carries the smell of sulphur. It makes the distance feel about right. Route Z91 to the Zao Karita summit leaves from the same stop and also calls at Zao Ropeway Mae, beyond the bus terminal, which is worth timing your day around if you are carrying a lot. Fares and the timetable for the day are available on the Yamako Bus website, and it is worth checking how fares are paid and whether IC transit cards are accepted at the same time, so that all you have to do on the day is get on. Driving There, and Parking By car, allow about 35 minutes from the Yamagata Zao interchange on the Yamagata Expressway, or about 25 minutes from the Yamagata Kaminoyama interchange on the Tohoku Chuo Expressway. Parking is on the Yokokura ski slope side, where Zao Ropeway Car Parks 1, 2 and 3 provide 200 spaces. How charges are handled varies by season, so looking up what is open and what it costs on the official Zao Onsen website before you leave tells you what to expect on arrival. Visitors from overseas who plan to rent a car need a driving licence that is valid in Japan. In most countries and regions that means an International Driving Permit issued under the Geneva Convention, while Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco and Taiwan, among others, are covered by a system in which a Japanese translation is attached to the home-country licence. Which applies to your licence can be confirmed with the National Police Agency's guidance or with the rental company before you travel. Note also that Japan drives on the left. In early November, at the tail end of the foliage season, snow and icy road surfaces are possible up the mountain, so check at the booking stage whether you can choose a car fitted with winter tyres. Coming From the Sendai Area The Sendai to Yamagata Zao express bus is reservation-only and runs in winter only. Travelling from the Sendai area in autumn therefore means going via Yamagata Station and changing to route Z90. A One-Day Model Course for Zao's Autumn Colour Here is everything above laid out across a single day, morning to evening. The journey there is covered in the previous section, so this is about how to structure your time once you arrive. Photo: Zao Onsen / A public bathhouse known for its strongly acidic waters From Morning to Evening Arrive at Zao Sanroku Station early in the morning and ride straight through to the summit. The Sancho Line starts running at 8:45. At Jizo Sancho Station, visit Zao Jizo and walk the paths around the station, and if the weather holds, continue to the Zao Natural Botanical Garden. Around midday, come back down to Juhyo Kogen Station and sit at Hyakumannin Terrace to take in the slope. If you still have energy, transfer to the Utopia Summer Lift and loop the Iroha Numa course, which takes about an hour. With the last ride up at 16:00, leave yourself room in the afternoon for the descent. Once you are back at Zao Sanroku Station, walk down to the hot spring village. The days are short at this time of year, so finishing your moving around while it is still light keeps the last stretch enjoyable. A Soak in Zao Onsen on the Way Back What waits at the end of a day on foot is Zao Onsen. An onsen is a bathing facility using hot water or mineral water that rises from the ground. Zao Onsen is said to have been discovered some 1,900 years ago, and in the Edo period the village thrived as the western trailhead for the Zao Gongen pilgrimage. People walking the mountain and then soaking in the water is a pattern that goes back centuries. The water is a strongly acidic sulphur spring with a pH of 1.25 to 1.6. Source temperatures run from 45°C to 66°C, and the flow reaches roughly 5,700 litres a minute. It has long been known as the water that makes you beautiful. The Zao Onsen village has three public bathhouses, three foot baths and five day-use hot spring facilities, so a round of bathing is open to visitors who are not staying overnight. Public bathhouses are shared baths used by local residents as well, and a foot bath is an outdoor facility where you soak only your feet. After a day of walking, a foot bath does a lot of good. The three public bathhouses, Kami-yu, Shimo-yu and Kawara-yu, are open from 6:00 to 22:00 year-round. The Zao Onsen Tourism Association lists admission at 300 yen for adults and 100 yen for children. All three are unstaffed, and you pay into a box at the entrance before going in. Because the water is strongly acidic, visitors are advised to remove metal jewellery before bathing. Please also note that many hot spring facilities in Japan do not admit bathers with tattoos. Check with each facility about their policy. Opening hours and prices are subject to change, so please check the Zao Onsen Tourism Association website before you set out. Where Okama Is, and How to Reach It The other name that often comes up alongside Zao is Okama, a crater lake formed by water collecting in a volcanic crater and one of the landscapes Zao is known for. The Zao mountain range straddles Yamagata and Miyagi prefectures, and Okama lies on the Miyagi side. It is not directly connected to any of the Zao Ropeway stations. The walking route described on Zao Ropeway's official website is the Mt. Kumano Komakusa Viewing Course, covering the Mt. Kumano and Okama area, at 5.0 kilometres and 4.0 hours one way for strong walkers. That is a generous distance to fold into a single day of leaf viewing. To reach Okama, the usual approach is from the Zao Karita summit side. Yamako Bus route Z91, mentioned in the previous section, connects Yamagata Station and the Zao Karita summit daily from 1 August to 25 October. Services are limited, so confirm the timetable for the day before building your plan around it. Frequently Asked Questions About Zao Ropeway's Autumn Leaves Finally, here are the questions most likely to remain before you travel. Q1. How long does it take to reach the summit? The ride is about 17 minutes each way in total. To that you add the transfer at Juhyo Kogen Station and however long you spend at the summit. If you are taking photographs and walking to the Jizo statue and back, allowing 30 minutes to an hour up there leaves room to enjoy it. Counting the return journey, around two hours from leaving the base station to getting back is a reasonable estimate. Q2. Is the foliage still worth seeing in rain or fog? On a foggy day, the colour of the nearby trees reads deeper and richer. Leaves wet with rain reflect less light, so reds and oranges settle into darker, denser tones. If the distant view is what you are after, checking the operating information and the weather on the official website before you set out makes it easier to switch plans. Q3. Can you see the autumn leaves and the juhyo at the same time? They belong to different seasons. Juhyo, sometimes called snow monsters in English, are trees encased in thick layers of snow and ice, and they are one of the things Zao is famous for. Since severe winter conditions are what create them, they are a winter sight rather than an autumn one. The name Juhyo Kogen Station leads some visitors to expect a winter scene, but what waits there in autumn is foliage and wetland. Q4. Is a round trip only as far as Juhyo Kogen Station worth it for the foliage? A round trip to Juhyo Kogen Station gives you plenty of autumn colour. The fare is 2,200 yen for an adult return, exactly half the 4,400 yen to Jizo Sancho Station, and Hyakumannin Terrace is a short walk from the station, so you can keep costs down and still spend the day looking out over the slope from a seat. Going all the way to the summit adds places to visit, including Zao Jizo and the Zao Natural Botanical Garden, so choose according to your time, your energy and your budget. In Summary, Going to See the Gap an 800-Metre Climb Creates With Zao Ropeway's autumn leaves, the plan is decided not by "when is the peak" but by "whose peak do I want to see". A difference of roughly 800 metres in elevation carries the autumn front from the summit down to the hot spring village over about a month. For colour at the summit, aim for late September to early October. To walk the wetlands and forest at Iroha Numa and Kanshodaira, early to mid October. To see the hot spring village itself turn colour, around late October. And if you want all three, the ropeway, a vehicle that moves you between elevation bands, is the answer in itself. Once you know which view you are after, all that is left is to check how far the colour has come this year. Open the live camera and the Yamagata City Tourism Association's foliage updates, and take a look at where Zao stands right now. Zao Ropeway (Zao Sanroku Station) Basic information 【Address】229-3 Zao Onsen, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture 【Telephone】023-694-9518 【Operating hours】 Sanroku Line　8:30-17:00 Sancho Line　8:45-16:45 ※As of August 2026 【Last ride up】 16:00 from Zao Sanroku Station (return trip to Jizo Sancho Station) 【Other】 Service may be suspended due to weather; extra runs operate at busy times Group travel requires a reservation for 20 or more (call Zao Sanroku Station) Ticket refund fee is 100 yen per ticket Access 【Train and bus】 Yamagata Shinkansen　to Yamagata Station ↓　Yamako Bus route Z90 (bus stop 1 in front of the station), about 37 minutes Zao Onsen Bus Terminal ↓　About a 10 to 15 minute walk Zao Ropeway, Zao Sanroku Station 【Car】 Yamagata Expressway　about 35 minutes from Yamagata Zao IC Tohoku Chuo Expressway　about 25 minutes from Yamagata Kaminoyama IC 【Parking】 Zao Ropeway Car Parks 1, 2 and 3 on the Yokokura ski slope side　200 spaces 【Bus enquiries】 Yamagata Kotsu Bus Information Centre　023-632-7272 【Trekking enquiries】 Custom trekking From 15,000 yen for one guide / year-round / book at least five days ahead Bookings　Zao Trekking Desk, Zao Onsen Tourism Association　023-694-9328 Journey times, fares, parking capacity and charges are all subject to change, so please check the official website before you set out. 【Official Website】https://zaoropeway.co.jp/summer/en.php .text-bold { font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul { counter-reset: listnum; list-style: none; font-size: 1.5rem !important; margin-bottom: 15px; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li { margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before { counter-increment: listnum; content: counter(listnum) ". 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■Contents Introduction What Changed for Japan Travel in 2026? How Much Is Japan's Departure Tax from July 2026? How Do Tax-Free Refunds Work from November 2026? How Much Does It Cost to Climb Mount Fuji? Street Rules for Smoking, Drinking and Trash How Much Is the Fine for Smoking on the Street? What Time Does Shibuya's Street Drinking Ban Start? Where Do You Throw Away Trash in Japan? Train Manners and Seating Rules Can You Sit in a Priority Seat? What If You Board a Women-Only Car by Mistake? What Do You Do with Backpacks and Phone Calls? Dining Manners and Paying in Japan Do You Tip in Japan? Which Chopstick Habits Should You Avoid? Where and How Do You Pay? Etiquette at Shrines, Temples and Sightseeing Spots How Do You Pray at a Shinto Shrine? Can You Take Photos in Kyoto's Gion? Manners for Eating on the Go and When Shoes Come Off How to Use an Onsen, and Tattoo Policies What Do You Do Before Entering an Onsen? Can You Enter an Onsen with Tattoos? How Do Cover Stickers and Private Baths Work? What Carries a Penalty and What Does Not Do the Penalties Apply to Foreign Visitors? Japanese Manners on Video Frequently Asked Questions Before You Go Summary and Pre-Trip Checklist Read more Introduction Traveling in Japan becomes remarkably smooth once you know a few rules and points of etiquette. In 2026, the departure tax rose to 3,000 yen, and the rules for climbing Mt. Fuji and for tax-free shopping refunds have also changed. From riding the train to bathing in a hot spring, visiting a shrine, and dining out, this guide brings together the things worth knowing in one place. By the time you finish reading, you should feel ready to explore Japan with confidence. Photo: A shrine precinct among cedar trees What Changed for Japan Travel in 2026? Many travelers are wondering, "What's different this year?" In 2026, three changes directly affect both your budget and your plans: the higher departure tax, the new tax-refund method, and the rules for climbing Mt. Fuji. Let's look at them one by one. How Much Is Japan's Departure Tax from July 2026? The departure tax is a tax charged to anyone leaving Japan, officially called the International Tourist Tax. Set at 1,000 yen per person since 2019, it changes to 3,000 yen for departures on or after July 1, 2026. The charge is added to the price of your airline or ferry ticket, so there is no separate payment to make at the airport. Children under the age of two and transit passengers who leave within 24 hours of entering are exempt. There is also a transitional measure for travelers who already hold a ticket. A transitional measure covers certain tickets issued on or before June 30, 2026, and travelers holding one pay the earlier rate of 1,000 yen even when they leave Japan on or after July 1. Because only certain tickets qualify and the issue date is what matters, travelers who have already bought a ticket should check with their airline. For the latest details, check the official guidance from the Japan Tourism Agency. How Do Tax-Free Refunds Work from November 2026? If you enjoy shopping, take note of the change to the tax-free system. Until now, the consumption tax was mainly deducted at the store at the time of purchase. From November 2026, this shifts to a "refund" system: you pay the full tax-included price, have it verified when you leave the country, and receive the refund afterward. The exact procedures and any required registration are still being finalized as the system launches. The safest approach is to confirm the latest, accurate steps on the National Tax Agency's official guidance before you prepare. How Much Does It Cost to Climb Mount Fuji? If you plan to climb Mt. Fuji, checking the rules is essential. On the Yamanashi side, the Yoshida Trail introduced a toll in 2024 and raised it to 4,000 yen in 2025. On the Shizuoka side, the Fujinomiya, Subashiri and Gotemba trails have required a 4,000 yen entry fee under a prefectural ordinance since 2025. In 2026 all four trails charge 4,000 yen. In addition, from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 a.m. the next morning, entry is restricted except for those with mountain-hut reservations. On the Yoshida route on the Yamanashi side, the gate closes once the number of climbers reaches 4,000 in a day. The Yoshida and Subashiri trails open on July 1, the Fujinomiya and Gotemba trails on July 10, and all of them close on September 10. A realistic plan and proper gear are essential. Photo: Fujinomiya, Shizuoka / Mount Fuji Omotoguchi Fifth Station Street Rules for Smoking, Drinking and Trash Japanese streets have several rules that may not be obvious from an overseas perspective. The three most likely to affect travelers are tobacco, alcohol, and trash. Knowing the background makes it easy to behave naturally. How Much Is the Fine for Smoking on the Street? A "karyo" is a sum collected by a local government for an ordinance violation. The amount for street smoking varies by area. In Tokyo's Chiyoda ward, the entire ward is a no-smoking street zone, and smoking or littering in the restricted area brings a fine. The ordinance sets the fine at up to 20,000 yen, and 2,000 yen applies for the time being. Chiyoda was also the first ward in the country to establish an ordinance with penalties. In Osaka, street smoking has been banned citywide since January 27, 2025, with a 1,000-yen fine for violations. In both cities the rules cover cigarettes as well as heated tobacco products. Chiyoda began charging the fine for smoking heated tobacco on the street on November 1, 2024. Smoking is expected to take place in designated smoking areas. What Time Does Shibuya's Street Drinking Ban Start? In Tokyo's Shibuya ward, in the designated area around Shibuya Station, drinking on the street or in parks has been banned from 6:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. year-round since October 1, 2024. What was once limited to Halloween and the New Year now applies all year. This ordinance carries no penalty. However, if you drink at night within the designated area, you may be approached and advised by patrol staff commissioned by the ward. When you want to enjoy a drink in Shibuya at night, doing so inside a venue or at your hotel is the safe choice. Where Do You Throw Away Trash in Japan? Walking around Japan, you will notice how few trash cans there are. Public bins have been reduced for reasons such as safety, and carrying out your own trash is the basic custom. When you're stuck, you can use the bins beside convenience stores and vending machines, or inside train stations. Keeping a small plastic bag with you while shopping is handy, as it lets you collect your trash until you return to your hotel.(9:02) Train Manners and Seating Rules Japanese trains are among the quietest public spaces in the world. Because almost every visitor uses them, there are manners worth knowing so you won't feel lost. Here are the basics in three common situations. Photo: Inside a JR East train / a women only car, in effect only during set morning and late-night hours Can You Sit in a Priority Seat? A priority seat is a seat to be offered first to elderly people, pregnant people, those with disabilities, and people with small children. You may sit there when it is empty. What matters is giving up your seat when someone who needs it boards. On some lines, signs near priority seats ask passengers to switch phones to silent mode or turn them off when the train is crowded.(4:07) What If You Board a Women-Only Car by Mistake? Women-only cars are usually limited to certain times, such as the morning and evening commute. You'll see pink signs or stickers on the platform floor and on the train doors. If a man boards one by mistake, there's no need to panic; simply move to another car at the next station. Checking the time period and the signs before boarding helps you avoid confusion.(4:16) What Do You Do with Backpacks and Phone Calls? In a crowded car, holding your backpack in front or placing it on the overhead rack keeps it out of others' way. Refrain from phone calls, and listen to music with earphones. Eating and drinking are also best kept to a minimum on local trains. On the Shinkansen and limited express trains, where you settle into your seat, eating and drinking are common, so adjusting by the type of train feels natural.(5:12) Dining Manners and Paying in Japan Japan's dining scene is full of points where common sense is the opposite of what you may be used to. Knowing them lets you eat with ease and feel closer to the locals. Let's look at three: tipping, chopsticks, and paying. Do You Tip in Japan? Japan has no tipping custom. The cost of service is already included in the bill. If you try to leave a tip, staff may even chase after you, thinking you forgot something. When you want to show your gratitude, a simple "Gochisousama deshita" as you leave is the natural way.(15:51) Which Chopstick Habits Should You Avoid? There are a few chopstick habits to avoid. Standing chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice recalls a funeral setting and is strongly avoided. Resting chopsticks across the top of a dish, or stabbing food with them, is also best avoided; place them on the chopstick rest when not in use. On the other hand, slurping noodles such as ramen or soba is accepted as a sign that you're enjoying the meal. Feel free to enjoy it without worry.(13:06) Where and How Do You Pay? At most shops, you pay at the register rather than at your table. When handling change, placing money on the tray at the counter is the common practice. Besides cash, more shops now accept IC cards and transit e-money such as Suica, and QR code payments such as PayPay. Travelers from China can sometimes use Alipay or WeChat Pay directly at participating stores in Japan. Small independent shops may take cash only, so having some cash on hand is reassuring.(15:10) Etiquette at Shrines, Temples and Sightseeing Spots Shrines, temples, and traditional sightseeing spots have rules that differ from ordinary attractions. Knowing the etiquette greatly deepens your cultural experience. Photo: Kirishima, Kagoshima / the vermilion halls of Kirishima Jingu, a shrine rooted in mountain worship How Do You Pray at a Shinto Shrine? At many shrines, you first purify your hands and mouth at the purification fountain (chozuya) before praying. The Association of Shinto Shrines gives two bows, two claps and a final bow as the basic form. You bow twice, clap your hands twice and bow once more. There is no strict rule about when to offer a coin or ring the bell, and each shrine gives its own guidance. Follow any posted instructions. Can You Take Photos in Kyoto's Gion? In Kyoto's Gion district, photo manners on private lanes have become an issue. Chasing and photographing maiko and geiko (geiko are known elsewhere as geisha) — both women who perform traditional arts and entertain guests in Kyoto — became a problem, so the local council put up signs on private lanes such as Kosode-koji reading "No Through Traffic" and "No Unauthorized Photography." The signs say that the owner's side asks for 10,000 yen from anyone who enters or photographs the lane without permission. This is not a penalty imposed by the national or local government, and whether the money is actually demanded depends on the situation. Entering without permission can still lead to a warning on the spot, a claim from the owner, or a call to the police, so follow what the signs ask. The sign is posted at the entrances to the private lane by a local council entrusted by the owner of Kosode Koji. There are public streets too, such as Hanamikoji, but the basics are to follow the signs and not chase people to photograph them. Manners for Eating on the Go and When Shoes Come Off Kamakura City uses an ordinance on improving manners to ask visitors to refrain from eating while walking in crowded places. It is a request, not a ban or regulation. Kyoto and Asakusa make similar requests, so following any signs you see is the safe approach. At inns, shrines and temples, and some restaurants, there are moments when you take off your shoes at the entrance. Placing your shoes neatly together makes a more polite impression.(19:22) How to Use an Onsen, and Tattoo Policies The hot spring (onsen) is one of the great joys of a trip to Japan, and also the place where travelers most often feel unsure. An onsen is a uniquely Japanese bathing culture in which you soak in natural water warmed by geothermal heat. Let's cover the basic etiquette and the realistic options for those with tattoos. What Do You Do Before Entering an Onsen? Before getting into the bath, rinse your body with a scoop of water, wash at the washing area, and then enter. When you get in, the basic rule is not to wear a swimsuit. It's the opposite of what you might expect, but at most facilities people bathe nude. Keep your towel out of the bathwater, placing it on your head or at the washing area. Master these three points and you can relax even on your first visit.(20:26) Can You Enter an Onsen with Tattoos? For those with tattoos, the worry is whether they'll be allowed to bathe. In a 2015 survey by the Japan Tourism Agency, about 56% of facilities declined entry to people with tattoos, about 31% allowed it, and about 13% allowed it on conditions such as covering the tattoo with a sticker. Responses are divided, and that remains the reality. At the same time, in 2016 the Tourism Agency urged the industry not to refuse entry without proper reason, and presented examples such as using cover stickers, offering private baths, and adjusting times. These figures come from the Tourism Agency's 2015 survey and do not show the current nationwide picture. Policies differ from one facility to the next, so travelers should check with the facility in advance. How Do Cover Stickers and Private Baths Work? There are three practical options for enjoying a hot spring. The first is to cover the tattoo with a skin-tone sticker. The second is to reserve a private bath or a room with its own bath and soak without worrying about others. The third is to choose, in advance, a facility that officially states it accepts guests with tattoos. In every case, checking directly with the facility before booking is the surest way.(21:07) What Carries a Penalty and What Does Not Here is a summary of the points covered so far, organized by action. Checking in advance which action, where, and what response it leads to gives you peace of mind before your trip. Street smoking (within a no-smoking zone)【Penalty / Response】Fine (up to 20,000 yen under the ordinance, 2,000 yen for now) 【Main Area & Conditions】Tokyo, Chiyoda ward (entire ward) 【Basis】Ward living-environment ordinance Street smoking (within a prohibited area)【Penalty / Response】1,000-yen fine 【Main Area & Conditions】Osaka City (citywide, since Jan. 2025) 【Basis】City street-smoking prevention ordinance Street drinking at night【Penalty / Response】No penalty / subject to guidance for ordinance violation 【Main Area & Conditions】Area around Shibuya Station (not the whole ward), 6 p.m.–5 a.m. (year-round) 【Basis】Ordinance on ensuring a safe and secure environment in the area around Shibuya Station (since Oct. 2024) Unauthorized photography or passing through Gion's specific private lanes【Penalty / Response】Not an administrative penalty. The owner's side posts a request for 10,000 yen. Entering without permission can bring a warning or a claim 【Main Area & Conditions】Kyoto City, Kosode-koji and others 【Basis】A sign put up on the private lane by the local council. Not a penalty under an ordinance Eating while walking【Penalty / Response】No penalty. A request about manners 【Main Area & Conditions】Kamakura City and elsewhere 【Basis】Kamakura City ordinance on improving manners in public places (not a ban or regulation) Pedestrian signal violation【Penalty / Response】Legally subject to penalty (enforcement is rare) 【Main Area & Conditions】Nationwide 【Basis】Road Traffic Act Do the Penalties Apply to Foreign Visitors? These rules apply to foreign travelers in the same way. Some, like Gion's private lanes, rest on a sign posted by a local council rather than on an administrative penalty, but in terms of avoiding trouble it makes no difference. How a violation is handled depends on the municipality and the ordinance. Officials may simply speak to you, or they may impose a fine on the spot, so follow the instructions given locally. When you notice a sign or a staff member's directions, following them on the spot is the smoothest approach.(20:04) Japanese Manners on Video For those who want to confirm the etiquette through video rather than text alone, a clip that conveys the manners through movement is helpful. How to hold a backpack, the steps for entering a hot spring, how to use chopsticks, and the gestures at a shrine are all easier to grasp by watching. The English-language video "Manners in Japan | The Complete Guide on What to do and What NOT to do" covers a wide range, from trains and handling trash to chopstick etiquette, paying and tipping, photography, and how to enter a hot spring. Watching it once before your trip lets you review the contents of this article on screen. 【Video】See how to hold a backpack on the train at 5:12, chopstick manners at 13:06, and how to use an onsen at 20:26. Frequently Asked Questions Before You Go Here are answers, one by one, to the questions most likely to come up right before your trip. Q1. When and where do I pay the 3,000-yen departure tax? It is automatically included in the international airfare for departures on or after July 1, 2026, so there is no separate payment at the airport. Children under two and transit passengers leaving within 24 hours are exempt. Note that a transitional measure covers certain tickets issued on or before June 30, 2026, and the tax on those tickets stays at 1,000 yen. Because only certain tickets qualify, travelers who have already bought one should ask their airline. Q2. From November 2026, how do I receive the tax-free refund? The system shifts from deducting the consumption tax at the store to one where you pay the full tax-included price, have it verified when you leave the country, and receive the refund afterward. As the details of the procedure are still being finalized, check the National Tax Agency's official guidance for the latest information. Q3. What are the alternatives if I have a tattoo and can't enter a hot spring? Three options are realistic: cover it with a sticker, reserve a private bath or a room with its own bath, or choose a facility that officially states it accepts guests with tattoos. Checking directly with the facility before booking is the surest way. Q4. Will I be penalized for walking with a can of beer in Shibuya? Carrying a can is not what the rule covers. The ordinance on ensuring a safe and secure environment in the area around Shibuya Station bans drinking on the street in the designated area from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m. There is no penalty, but if you drink there during those hours, patrol staff may approach you and ask you to stop. Q5. Can I play music out loud on the train without earphones? It is not banned by law, but Japanese trains have a culture of staying quiet. Out of consideration for those around you, using earphones is strongly recommended. Summary and Pre-Trip Checklist We've looked at everything from the new rules of 2026 to the etiquette of the streets, trains, dining, shrines, and hot springs. What's worth remembering is that these are not a list of prohibitions to memorize, but a doorway into Japanese culture. The more you understand the etiquette, the more pleasantly your interactions with locals go, and the more rewarding your trip becomes. As a pre-departure checklist, it helps to confirm these 15 points: the amount and exemptions for the departure tax, the new tax-refund system, the Mt. Fuji climbing rules, the no-smoking areas for street smoking, Shibuya's nighttime street-drinking rule, carrying out your trash, giving up a priority seat, the time periods for women-only cars, holding your backpack in front, no phone calls on the train, no tipping, chopstick etiquette, paying at the register, shrine worship etiquette, and rinsing before a hot spring along with tattoo options. For the latest, accurate information, checking official sources is the surest path. Here are the main ones to consult. Japan Tourism Agency (departure tax / tourist tax) https://www.mlit.go.jp/kankocho/seisaku_seido/kihonkeikaku/inbound_kaifuku/ryokakuzei.html National Tax Agency (tax-free shopping and the refund system) https://www.nta.go.jp/publication/pamph/shohi/menzei/201805/format/002.htm Official Mt. Fuji Climbing Website https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/yamanashi-notice/ Tokyo, Shibuya Ward https://www.city.shibuya.tokyo.jp/kusei/shisaku/jorei-toshin/sbykankyo.html Tokyo, Chiyoda Ward https://www.city.chiyoda.lg.jp/koho/machizukuri/sekatsu/jore/aramashi.html Osaka City https://www.city.osaka.lg.jp/kankyo/page/0000630108.html Knowing just a few rules makes traveling in Japan safer and far more enjoyable. With this article's checklist in hand, why not start planning the Japan trip that's right for you? .text-bold { font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table.blue { background-color: #fffaef; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul { counter-reset: listnum; list-style: none; font-size: 1.5rem !important; margin-bottom: 15px; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li { margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before { counter-increment: listnum; content: counter(listnum) ". 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Explore the Ruins of Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture is a slightly mysterious place where the remains of a modern-era fortress still lie quietly in the woods. This featured video takes you along the park’s well-maintained trails and lets you experience moss-covered stones, cool air, and shadowy underground spaces evocative of an atmosphere reminiscent of Laputa from Studio Ghibli's Castle in the Sky. What makes it special is that it is not merely a mountain dotted with ruins, but a park where the ruins blend naturally into the landscape. Since you can encounter them as an extension of a stroll or forest bathing, known in Japan as shinrin-yoku, it feels comfortably approachable even for first-time visitors. In this article, we will introduce the highlights of Ishiharadake Forest Park、including its history, as well as its well-maintained walking paths, restrooms, gazebos, cooking facilities, and camping areas. Photo: Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture Ruins from 125 Years Ago? Ishiharadake Forest Park is a place where the remains of a modern-era fortress seem to melt into the forest itself. The Ishiharadake Battery (Ishiharadake Hōrui) within the park is said to have been completed in 1899. As you walk, you can see that structures once built for defense now stand quietly, embraced by the trees. On paper, it is a “Meiji-era remnant,” but when you stand there, you feel something stronger: the presence of time itself. Moss tracing the edges of stone, the hush of the surrounding woods, the cool, clear air. The Meiji era, which should feel far away, seems to breathe softly deep in the forest. That quiet sense of historical romance is this forest's greatest charm. What Is the Ishiharadake Battery in Nagasaki? As you walk through Ishiharadake Forest Park, you will come across the remains of the Ishiharadake Battery. The term hōrui, often translated as “battery”, is best understood as a defensive position within the larger system of a fortress. The Ishiharadake Battery was one of the defensive installations built to protect the naval port. That is why the stone walls and shaped terrain remaining in the forest look less like scattered rubble and more like structures deliberately built for defense. Photo: Sasebo Fortress remains (Ishiharadake Battery site) at Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture An interesting point is that these defensive facilities did not just consist of buildings. You can see a variety of measures which were used to increase the defensive strength of the battery through the terrain itself, such as raised earthworks, trench lines, and stone-reinforced slopes. there is enjoyment to be found in searching for these traces as you walk. Simply gaining one new perspective makes the same scenery far more fascinating. Highlights of Ishiharadake Forest Park The appeal of this place is that the remnants do not push themselves forward as a “main attraction.” Instead, they blend naturally into the forest scenery. The green of moss, the gray of stone, and the dappled light through the trees. As these colors and textures layer together, it begins to resemble the world of Laputa. Rather than large buildings, what you notice are traces such as stone outlines, steps, and subtle rises and dips in the ground. Because of that, discoveries follow one after the other as you walk: one here, one there, another just ahead. Photo: Sasebo Fortress remains (Ishiharadake Battery site) at Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture The stone surfaces can look softer when covered in moss, and then sharply defined when shadows fall across them. Even in the same spot, the impression changes depending on the time of day. Since the forest is quiet, you can clearly hear your footsteps and the rustle of branches and leaves, which makes the stillness feel even deeper. Around the remnants, the air often feels noticeably cooler、conveying a shift in atmosphere rarely captured in photos. As a result, this is less a place where you “go to see ruins,” and more a place where you “meet ruins while walking through the forest.” That subtle sense of distance is what creates the Laputa-like feeling. What Is the Enpei-bu Shelter Like? The first major highlight of the video starts at (0:30) with the lowest-level enpei-bu shelter. The moment you step into the darkness, the air turns cool, and it becomes strikingly quiet, as if sound is being absorbed. The word enpei (掩蔽) itself means “to cover and conceal.” In modern fortifications, an enpei-bu is often explained as a “concealed protective space,” designed to shelter personnel and supplies from shelling and other attacks. Over time, both structure and materials evolved. In the Meiji period, stone and brick were used, and later the use of concrete became more widespread. That technological shift is part of what defines these shelters. With the Ishiharadake Battery, there is not always enough information to state every detail of the enpei-bu’s original use with certainty. Still, the appeal of this section lies in the fact that the park has been developed to preserve the atmosphere of a fortress site, and that the “underground air” conveyed in the video leaves a strong impression as an experience. The quiet beyond the darkness feels far more intense than it does in photos. To enjoy it safely, bring a light (your smartphone's light is enough) and be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. What Can You See at the Gun Battery Site? As you reach the gun battery area, it quickly becomes clear that Ishiharadake Forest Park was developed around the Ishiharadake Battery site. The city of Saikai also introduces it as an atmospheric fortress site, and one of the key charms here is how the outlines of stone structures remain within the forest’s stillness. Photo: Sasebo Fortress remains (Ishiharadake Battery site) at Ishiharadake Forest Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture The key discovery here is that the battery site cannot be reduced to simply “Where the cannons were placed.” On Nagasaki’s tourism websites, the Ishiharadake Battery is introduced as a battery completed in 1899, with remnants still preserved within the park. Once you know that background, walking the battery area makes the structures in the woods look less like mere “scenery,” and more like traces of their original role. When those “outlines of history” connect with the atmosphere of the place, it lingers in your memory in a quiet, gradual way. As you reach the gun battery area, it becomes easy to understand, just by looking around, that Ishiharadake Forest Park is “a place developed by making use of the Ishiharadake Battery site.” The outlines of stone structures remain within the forest’s stillness, and it is a point where you can strongly feel that this was not just a walking trail, but part of a modern defensive facility. How to Enjoy the Campsite Ishiharadake Forest Park is a park with historic ruins where you can also camp. The fee is 520 yen per tent per night, and reservations are required. A good way to spend time here is to take a light walk around the remnants in the late afternoon to get used to the atmosphere, enjoy the forest’s quiet as it is at night, then walk again the next morning when the sunlight filters through the trees. On a day trip, you may only glimpse the atmosphere, but if you stay, you will notice the expressions of the stone and the sounds of the forest gradually changing over time. Access ■ Access from Nagasaki Airport by bus, train, and ferry (approx. 3 hours 10 minutes) Nagasaki Airport (route bus “Nagasaki Airport to Nagasaki Station, via Nagasaki University East Gate and Peace Park”) ↓ Uematsu-higashi ↓ Shin-Omura Station (JR Omura Line and Sasebo Line, “Section Rapid Seaside Liner” bound for Sasebo) ↓ Sasebo Station ↓ Kujirase Terminal (ferry “Sasebo to Yokose-nishi,” bound for Yokose-nishi Port) ↓ Yokose-nishi Port ↓ On foot ↓ Ishiharadake Forest Park Because airport bus operations and arrival times vary depending on the service and road conditions, it is reassuring to check the latest information on the official guidance and timetable for Saihi Bus (Nagasaki Airport Line) before you depart. 【Saihi Bus Official Website】bus.saihigroup.co.jp ■ Access from Nagasaki Airport by car Nagasaki Airport ↓ Car (rental car) ↓ Ishiharadake Forest Park Travel time may vary depending on road conditions. What to See Nearby One of the best things about the area around Ishiharadake Forest Park is how easy it is to combine the quiet of the forest with a different kind of experience on the same day. If you want something more hands-on, the classic choice in Saikai is Nagasaki Bio Park. Official information highlights exhibits with few cages or fences and experiences where you can get close to and interact with animals, so it offers a visit that goes beyond simply looking. Photo: Capybaras at Nagasaki Bio Park in Saikai, Nagasaki Prefecture Another highlight is that the park offers animal feeding and interaction experiences. Capybara programs are especially popular, and in winter they may hold an event known as the “Capybara Open-air Bath.” Opening hours are 10:00 to 17:00, with last entry at 16:00. The park generally has no regular closing days and remains open over the year-end and New Year holidays. They also note that temporary closures are possible in severe weather, such as typhoons or heavy snow. Since admission fees are listed officially as well, checking the latest details before visiting makes it easier to plan your day. 【Nagasaki Bio Park Official Website】biopark.co.jp If you want to add more of a “travel” feeling, Huis Ten Bosch is another must. Modeled after European streetscapes, the park has an atmosphere you can enjoy just by walking around. In the daytime, you can take in canal-side views and architectural details. At night, the illumination transforms the mood completely. Photo: Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki Prefecture In particular, the illumination event “Kingdom of Light” is promoted as a year-round attraction, with highlights that change by season and area. In winter, there is also a limited-time event called “World of Silver,” which offers a seasonal way to see the entire town in a different light. Since the event period varies by year, please check in advance. For access, it is said to take about 5 to 7 minutes on foot from JR Huis Ten Bosch Station to the entrance, the Welcome Gate, making it easy to include even on a train trip. If you move from the quiet of Ishiharadake to the bright spectacle of Huis Ten Bosch, the tone of the same day’s experiences changes dramatically. 【Huis Ten Bosch Official Website】https://www.huistenbosch.co.jp Conclusion The charm of Ishiharadake Forest Park is that it is an easy place to walk trough as a forest park, yet during your stroll you can suddenly sense the presence of Japan’s modern era. The cool air of the enpei-bu shelter, the outlines left at the gun battery site, and the quiet you can savor at the campsite. Even within the same forest, the density of the atmosphere changes from place to place. It is so interesting that before you know it, your walking pace slows down too. If you watch the video beforehand as a way to preview the atmosphere,　you will notice more moments of quiet recognition once you are there,　and your walk will become even more enjoyable. Whether you simply want to walk in the woods or you are looking for a slightly different destination, this is a place where you can taste a quiet, out-of-the-ordinary experience. It is the kind of spot that makes you think on the way home, “I want to walk through that cool air one more time.” Reference site for Ishiharadake Forest Park: https://www.city.saikai.nagasaki.jp/kanko/theme/spot/1/4942.html .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table.blue { background-color: #fffaef; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul{ counter-reset: listnum; /* カウンターをリセット */ list-style: none; /* 標準のスタイルは消す */ font-size: 1.5rem !important; margin-bottom: 15px; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li{ margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before{ counter-increment: listnum; /* counter-resetと同じ文字列 */ content: counter(listnum); /* カウントした数に応じて番号を表示 */ content: counter(listnum) ". 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Welcome Spring Early in Yanagawa, Fukuoka — “Yanagawa Hina Festival: Sagemon Meguri” If you want to welcome spring a little early in Yanagawa, Fukuoka, head to the “Yanagawa Hina Festival: Sagemon Meguri.” As the Girls’ Festival season approaches, the town of Yanagawa gently fills with color, and vibrant hanging decorations begin to sway throughout tourist facilities and shopping streets. As you stroll through the area, you may come across scenes that feel as if flowers are falling from above, making you want to reach for your camera. In this article, we'll introduce the history and fun facts behind the festival and share tips on how to explore it in a way that truly enhances your experience. We’ll also cover river cruises, local cuisine, and travel-planning ideas. What Is the Yanagawa Hina Festival: Sagemon Meguri? Photo: Sagemon decorations from the Yanagawa Hina Festival in Yanagawa, Fukuoka The “Yanagawa Hina Festival: Sagemon Meguri” is a citywide Girls’ Festival event held across various locations throughout Yanagawa. Unique hanging decorations called “sagemon,” along with traditional hina dolls displayed for Hinamatsuri, decorate tourist facilities, shopping streets, and storefronts throughout the city. Simply strolling around naturally becomes a sightseeing tour of highlights. There is no fixed route, so you can stop by any displays that catch your interest. Whether you prefer a quick visit or a leisurely half-day exploration, you can tailor the experience to your travel style. As the entire town becomes more colorful, photo opportunities increase with every step. For 2026, the festival is scheduled to take place from February 11, 2026, to April 3, 2026, although dates may change depending on weather conditions. Because the event runs for an extended period, it is easier to plan a relaxed weekday visit and avoid the busier weekends or special event days. During the festival period, special events are also planned, such as the “Ohinasama Opening Ceremony and Procession” and the “Ohinasama Water Parade,” both of which reflect the charming atmosphere of this historic canal town. A recommended way to enjoy the festival is to view the displays, watch the events, and then savor the lingering atmosphere with a river cruise. This sequence allows you to experience spring in Yanagawa in a rich and immersive way. Photo: Ohinasama Water Parade at the Yanagawa Hina Festival in Yanagawa, Fukuoka Examples of the main event schedule include the “Ohinasama Opening Ceremony and Procession” on February 11, and the “Ohinasama Water Parade” on March 15 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:20 p.m., which will be postponed to March 20 in case of rain. The “Nagashi-bina Festival,” in which paper hina dolls are set afloat on the water to pray for good health and protection from misfortune, is scheduled for April 3. Before the main festival period, a “Sagemon Exhibition and Sale” will be held on January 31 and February 1. During the festival, “Yanagawa Kimono Biyori” is also scheduled for March 8 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 【Video】（1:39）～ Yanagawa is a town where your journey deepens as you walk through shopping streets, along the canals, and make spontaneous stops at displays that catch your eye. It is truly an event designed for leisurely exploration. What Is Sagemon? The Story Behind Its 51 Decorations Photo: Sagemon decorations from the Yanagawa Hina Festival in Yanagawa, Fukuoka Sagemon are distinctive hanging decorations unique to Yanagawa, made by stringing together auspicious fabric ornaments and “Yanagawa mari,” which are traditional decorative balls. Typically, 49 ornaments are hung in seven strands of seven from a bamboo ring, with two larger Yanagawa mari placed in the center, making a total of 51 decorations. The number 51 is not arbitrary. In an era when a lifespan of 50 years was considered the norm, people added one more to express the wish that a child would live even one year longer. Knowing this story adds deeper meaning to the decorations. Rather than simply admiring their beauty in the video, try recalling the significance of the number when you see them in person. The scene before you will feel even more meaningful. As an additional fun fact, many of the small ornaments on sagemon represent auspicious symbols such as cranes, turtles, and shrimp, each carrying its own meaning. Cranes and turtles symbolize longevity, plum blossoms represent healthy growth as they bloom before spring, peaches symbolize protection from misfortune, and cherry blossoms express the joy of spring. The more you notice, the more you can feel the celebratory spirit behind each piece. While exploring, try spotting cranes, turtles, and shrimp as if playing a small treasure hunt game. The moment you find one, your excitement for the journey will rise another level. 【Video】（0:59）～ How to Explore: A Simple Model Course Yanagawa is a town best enjoyed not as isolated points, but as a continuous flow of experiences. Here is a recommended classic route. Photo: Hina doll display and sagemon at the Yanagawa Hina Festival in Yanagawa, Fukuoka [Morning] Focus on the displays 1. Arrive at Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station 2. Explore sagemon displays in the shopping street area 3. Head to the Okinohata area for a waterside stroll Photo: Yanagawa’s famous dish, steamed eel in a bamboo steamer [Afternoon Meal] Enjoy local cuisine Yanagawa’s famous steamed eel in a bamboo steamer is a must-try. On busy days, it is recommended to arrive early or make a reservation. Photo: River cruising in Yanagawa, Yanagawa, Fukuoka [Afternoon] River cruise experience A river cruise through the canals on a traditional flat-bottomed “donkobune” boat takes about one hour. The estimated fee ranges from 1,800 to 2,000 yen for adults, depending on the course. After walking through town, relaxing on the boat is one of the true pleasures of a trip to Yanagawa. Additional Spots to Visit Photo: Tachibana Residence Ohana, former residence of the Yanagawa domain lord [Tachibana Residence Ohana] Visiting hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with general admission at 1,200 yen. Please check the official website for details such as closing days. After enjoying the vibrant displays of the Sagemon Meguri, stepping into Ohana brings a calm shift in atmosphere, gently resetting the rhythm of your journey. The quiet garden, historic architecture, and seasonal colors create a serene setting. During the sagemon season, the contrast between refined elegance and festive color leaves a lasting impression. Photo: Kitahara Hakushu Birthplace and Memorial Museum in Yanagawa, Fukuoka [Kitahara Hakushu Birthplace and Memorial Museum] Open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., last admission at 4:30 p.m., with admission at 600 yen for adults. As you walk along Yanagawa’s waterways, there are moments when the atmosphere feels almost poetic. This museum puts that feeling into words, introducing the world of Kitahara Hakushu, a poet born in this water town. It adds depth to your stroll. The site also appears in the video at 0:24. Watching it beforehand can deepen your sense of immersion when you visit. After viewing the exhibits, walking again along the canals offers a fresh perspective on the same scenery. Photo: Okinohata area in Yanagawa, Fukuoka [Strolling the Okinohata Area] Located near the river cruise boarding area, this district allows you to fully enjoy the scenery of a classic canal town. Walking here makes you truly feel that Yanagawa is a “city of water.” With canals close at hand, along with bridges, reflections, and the presence of boats, the atmosphere enhances the sense of travel. It is the perfect place to pause during your sagemon exploration and simply soak in the atmosphere of Yanagawa. Tips for Avoiding Crowds and Access Information Weekends and event days tend to be crowded, so it is recommended to explore the displays in the morning and enjoy a river cruise in the afternoon. On rainy days, focusing on indoor exhibitions ensures a more comfortable visit. From Fukuoka Airport, the easiest route is via Tenjin and then taking the Nishitetsu train line, following the route Fukuoka Airport → Tenjin → Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station. If traveling by car, the city is accessible from nearby highway interchanges. Conclusion: Watch the Video and Complete Your Spring in Yanagawa The Yanagawa Hina Festival: Sagemon Meguri is a Girls’ Festival that comes alive through exploration. Learn the meaning behind the 51 decorations, experience history at Ohana, immerse yourself in the world of Kitahara Hakushu, and relax on a river cruise surrounded by the atmosphere of this canal town. Finish with steamed eel in a bamboo steamer, and your spring journey will be a true success. Start by watching the video to set the mood, then head to Yanagawa in Fukuoka Prefecture. Go and experience that gentle sway of color for yourself. Official website: https://www.crossroadfukuoka.jp/en/event/11874

Hyogo, Wakayama, Nara, Kyoto, and Mie｜8 Must-See Plum Blossom Spots in Kansai and Nearby Sightseeing Ideas. The flower that signals the arrival of spring earlier than any other is the plum blossom. It begins blooming a little ahead of cherry blossoms, and with its soft, drifting fragrance and red-and-white hues, it lets you feel the very moment when the season turns. In this article, we focus on eight plum blossom spots in Hyogo, Wakayama, Nara, Kyoto, and Mie featured in a YouTube video. We explain each site’s highlights, origins, and unique characteristics in detail, and we also introduce nearby attractions worth adding to your itinerary. Where Did Plum Blossom Viewing Begin? Was It Really the Star Before Cherry Blossoms? Photo: Plum blossoms Today, “hanami” usually means cherry blossom viewing. However, during the Nara period, the true “star flower” was the plum blossom. In the Manyoshu, poems that include the character for “plum” are said to outnumber those mentioning “cherry blossoms,” showing how deeply people of the time were moved by plums.There is also a record that in Tenpyo 2 (730), a “Plum Blossom Banquet” was held in Dazaifu, where attendees composed poems inspired by plum blossoms.Back then, plum blossoms were not so much a flower that had long been part of Japan, but rather a new and admired flower introduced from China. As time went on, flower viewing as a leisure activity shifted its focus to cherry blossoms, while plums continued to be cherished for their fragrance, association with learning, and auspicious symbolism.With their red-and-white colors symbolizing good fortune, and their ability to bloom after enduring winter, plum blossoms have blended naturally into everyday life as a lucky motif.They are dazzling at full bloom, and when the petals begin to fall, there are moments that can even evoke the swirl of falling cherry blossoms. Plum blossoms feel like flowers that quietly show us the entrance to spring. When Is the Best Time to See Plum Blossoms in Kansai? A Quick Guide to Bloom Timing Broadly speaking, the plum blossom season in Kansai runs from late January to late March.That said, even within Kansai, the timing can shift easily depending on coastal versus inland areas, mountain valleys, and elevation, so the peak period can be tricky to predict. A Simple Guide From First Bloom to Peak Season Wakayama (Minabe): Easy to plan for early in the season. The grove typically opens from late January, with peak viewing around mid-February.Kyoto (city areas): From February through March. The Tenmangu Shrine Plum Blossom Festival (late February) is also a seasonal cue.Nara (Tsukigase and Gojo): Mainly mid-February through March. Tsukigase spreads across a gorge with around 10,000 trees.Hyogo (Kobe and the foothills of Mt. Rokko): In some years the plum blossom season doesn't really take off until March. The Hokura Plum Grove is usually at its best from the middle of March.Mie (Inabe and Suzuka): Late February through March. Suzuka no Mori Garden is especially known for its nighttime atmosphere. 1. Hokura Plum Grove (Kobe, Hyogo)｜A “Reward” of Plum Blossoms Overlooking the City and Sea Photo: Hokura Plum Grove, Kobe, Hyogo You can see the scene at Hokura Plum Grove (00:45).Hokura Plum Grove was created in 1975 on Mt. Hokura in Higashinada Ward, Kobe, out of a desire to bring back the former Okamoto plum groves. With about 100 white and red plum trees, its biggest draw is the view framed by the cityscape and the sea.The highlight is the moment when the view suddenly opens up after the climb. The fragrance seems to bring spring ahead of time, and even the slope beneath your feet becomes part of a “small journey.” Many visitors enjoy a quiet walk rather than a picnic-style party, but on popular days it can feel a bit like people are claiming spots. Comfortable walking shoes are a good idea. Nearby attractions (Kobe, Hyogo) After visiting Hokura Plum Grove, stopping by the nearby Hokura Shrine before heading back down the mountain is a natural next step. Okamoto Plum Grove Park has around 200 trees and a wide variety of cultivars. It is close to the station and great for “plum-hopping.” After descending, taking a café break or strolling around the Hankyu Okamoto Station area is a pleasant way to settle into the afterglow of your hike. If you want to add a more classic sightseeing touch, consider visiting the Nada sake breweries, which are easy to reach from Higashinada. You can learn at the visitor facilities and pick out souvenirs as well. Basic information Best season: From mid-March onward (varies by year) Access: About a 40-minute walk from Hankyu “Okamoto Station” (approximate)Admission: Free(transportation and nearby facilities not included) Official website: https://www.city.kobe.lg.jp/b07715/kuyakusho/higashinadaku/shoukai/shoukai/ume.html 2. Minabe Plum Grove (Minabe Town, Wakayama)｜A Vast Plum Grove Known as “A Million at a Glance, Fragrance for Ten Miles” Photo: Minabe Plum Grove, Minabe Town, Wakayama You can see the scene at Minabe Plum Grove (02:21).Minabe Plum Grove is one of Japan’s largest, often described as “a million blossoms at a glance, fragrance for ten miles.” As you walk through the aromatic air, it feels like you can hear spring drawing closer. The grove typically opens from late January to early March, with peak viewing around mid-February.Minabe Town is also known as a major plum-producing region, where plums are closely tied not only to tourism but also to everyday life and local work. Here, words like umeboshi and traditional plum processing feel less like a simple local specialty and more like something you can experience as living culture. Nearby attractions (Wakayama) Around Minabe Plum Grove, there are plenty of easy detours where you can experience what it means to be in a plum-producing region. Pairing your walk with shopping for plum products or visiting related facilities helps the scenery linger as “flavor memories,” too. If you have more time, heading toward Shirahama to add a coastal walk with dramatic views, or a day-use soak in Shirahama Onsen, can elevate the trip into a truly satisfying spring getaway. Basic information Location: Banre area, Minabe Town, Hidaka District, Wakayama Prefecture Hours: 8:00–17:00 (during the open season) Admission: Adults 500 yen, elementary and junior high school students 200 yen (approximate) Access: About 5–6 minutes by car from Minabe IC (approximate) Parking: Paid Official website: https://minabebairin.com 3. Ano Plum Grove (Gojo City, Nara)｜A Story of 20,000 Trees Inspired by Yoshino Photo: Ano Plum Grove, Gojo City, Nara You can see the scene at Ano Plum Grove (04:09).Ano Plum Grove spreads across the hills of Nishiyoshino, Gojo City, Nara Prefecture, with around 20,000 plum trees.What makes it special is the way the viewing areas are named “Hitome Senbon,” “Mikaeri Senbon,” and “Oku no Senbon,” echoing the famous cherry blossom zones of Mt. Yoshino. You can feel the ambition to create a spring experience with plums that can stand alongside Yoshino’s blossoms.Allow about three hours to explore the area. If you take your time, pausing at viewpoints and breathing in the fragrance rather than rushing, the scenery stays with you long after you leave. Nearby attractions (Nara) One of the best parts of Ano Plum Grove is how you can layer a sense of history onto the plum scenery. If you visit the nearby former Ano Imperial Palace site (Hori Family Residence), you will gain a better sense of this area’s background, which makes the plum landscape even more memorable. On the way back, stopping by Gojo Shinmachi Street to stroll through an Edo-period townscape and take a break with something sweet connects nature and town walking, adding density to your day. Basic information Location: Kitazogi, Nishiyoshino-cho, Gojo City, Nara Prefecture Best season: Late February to early March (approximate) Inquiry: 0747-33-0301 (local) Official website: https://www.city.gojo.lg.jp/soshiki/nishiyoshino/1/2015.html 4. Tsukigase Plum Valley (Nara City, Nara)｜A “Spring Panorama” of Gorge, Lake, and 10,000 Trees Photo: Tsukigase Plum Valley, Nara City, Nara You can see the scene at Tsukigase Plum Valley (05:43). Tsukigase Plum Valley is one of Japan’s leading plum blossom destinations, with more than 10,000 trees stretching along the gorge of the Satsukigawa (Nabari River). It was designated a National Scenic Spot in 1922.Peak season is around mid-February through March. The fragrance lingers as if pooling in the gorge, and the scenery seems to loosen and open up the more you walk, a signature charm of Tsukigase.And this is a place that goes beyond being simply “photogenic.” It is said that plum trees were first planted in the precincts of Shinpukuji Temple in the Kamakura period, and the area later drew poets and scholars. That depth of time gives the landscape a quiet sense of presence. Nearby attractions (Nara City, Nara) Because Tsukigase Plum Valley is best enjoyed on foot along the gorge, the perfect nearby plan is one that warms you up and neatly rounds out the day. After your walk, soak and unwind at Ume no Sato Tsukigase Onsen to melt away the chill and the fatigue that tends to build up in this season. If you have extra time, stopping by a nearby roadside station to pick out local foods and souvenirs adds another small pleasure to the trip home.. Basic information Access: About 80 minutes by bus from JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station (approximate) Best season: Mid-February to March (approximate) Official website: https://www.city.nara.lg.jp/sightseeing/naraharu/112100.html 5. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (Kyoto City, Kyoto)｜Plum Blossoms, Learning, and the Legend of the “Flying Plum” Photo: Plum Garden “Hana no Niwa” at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto You can see the scene at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (08:13).Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is a Tenmangu shrine associated with Sugawara no Michizane and is affectionately known as “Tenjin-san.” It has a deep connection with plum blossoms, and the plum tree in front of the main hall is said to be a special tree that carries on the plum Michizane loved.Visiting amid the fragrance of plum blossoms offers a calm, centering stillness that goes beyond prayers for academic success.During plum season, many visitors also come to receive goshuin stamps, and the atmosphere on the grounds feels even more like a springtime event. As the opening period, program details, and fees for the plum garden vary by year, it is best to check the official announcement shortly before your visit. Nearby attractions (Kyoto City, Kyoto) The area around Kitano Tenmangu Shrine makes it easy to build a classic “Kyoto highlights” itinerary, even for first-time visitors. After visiting the plum garden and paying your respects, consider heading to Kinkakuji or Ryoanji to experience Kyoto’s iconic scenery and quiet beauty in a single day. If you would rather slow down, stroll around the Kamishichiken and Nishijin neighborhoods. Adding a break for wagashi sweets or a light meal helps keep the day relaxed rather than rushed. Basic information Location: Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City (Kitano Tenmangu Shrine)Plum garden and program details: Periods and fees vary by year (check official announcements)Official website: https://kitanotenmangu.or.jp/guidance/baien/ 6. Jonangu Shrine (Kyoto City, Kyoto)｜A Garden Where Weeping Plums and Camellias Overlap in Spring Photo: Weeping plums and fallen camellias at Jonangu Shrine, Kyoto You can see the scene at Jonangu Shrine (09:51).Jonangu Shrine was founded to the south of Kyoto at the time of the Heian capital’s establishment and has long been revered as a major shrine for protection against misfortune.In spring, it is famous for the “Weeping Plum and Camellia Festival,” where about 150 weeping plum trees and around 400 camellias can be enjoyed at the same time. As the blossoms begin to fall, the “carpet of petals” covering the ground is another highlight.Nighttime cherry blossoms are wonderful, too, but Jonangu feels best enjoyed in daylight, when you can slowly appreciate the textures of the flowers. To avoid crowds, visiting right after opening or on weekdays is generally more comfortable. Nearby attractions (Kyoto City, Kyoto) After Jonangu Shrine, linking your trip to the Fushimi area makes the sightseeing plan easy to organize. Fushimi is known as a sake-brewing district. Combining a stroll through the brewery townscape with museum visits adds cultural depth to a flower-viewing outing. If you have time, Fushimi Inari Taisha is also a great option. With a mix of worship and walking, even a half-day outing can feel well-rounded, with “seeing, walking, and tasting” all covered. Basic information Weeping Plum and Camellia Festival: Feb 18 to Mar 22 (varies by year)Visiting hours: 9:00–16:30 (last admission 16:00)Admission fee: Adults 1,000 yen, elementary school students 600 yen (varies by period and category)Official website: https://www.jonangu.com/shidareume.html 7. Inabe City Plum Grove Park (Inabe City, Mie)｜A “Color Patchwork” of Mountains and Plum Blossoms Photo: Inabe City Plum Grove Park, Inabe City, Mie You can see the scene at Inabe City Plum Grove Park (11:45).Inabe City Plum Grove Park is a well-known plum blossom spot located within the Inabe City Agricultural Park in Mie Prefecture. During the plum festival period, an admission fee is charged, and opening hours are generally from 9:00 to 16:00.The sight of colors spreading across the slopes looks especially crisp on clear days, and some visitors may immediately think of great photo opportunities.That said, this feels less like a place made solely for photographs and more like a place to take in the entire landscape from the observation decks. While enjoying sheer scale, like counting cherry trees, can be fun, Inabe’s appeal is how clearly you can see differences in varieties through color, with highlights scattered throughout the park. Nearby attractions (Inabe City, Mie) After Inabe City Plum Grove Park, adding a relaxing detour in the Ageki area can boost overall satisfaction. There are facilities where you can enjoy hot springs, saunas, and meals, which is perfect for the chilly plum blossom season. If you have extra time, a short stroll through Ageki’s shopping streets before heading home is also recommended. It is a pleasant way to soak up “just a little more” local atmosphere at the end of your trip. Basic information Location: 717 Kanae, Fujiwara-cho, Inabe City, Mie PrefectureHours: 9:00–16:00Admission fee: Adults 500 yen (approximate, during the plum festival period)Official event information: Updated as neededOfficial website: https://www.kankomie.or.jp/event/11313 8. Suzuka no Mori Garden (Suzuka City, Mie)｜A “Weeping Plum Chandelier” Floating in the Night Photo: Suzuka no Mori Garden, Suzuka City, Mie You can see the scene at Suzuka no Mori Garden (14:27).Suzuka no Mori Garden is a research and cultivation farm for weeping plum trees operated by the Akatsuka Botanical Garden Group. The garden has about 200 notable trees, and it is striking how clearly the purpose of preserving and passing down pruning and training techniques is stated.The signature highlights are the trees known as “Heaven’s Dragon” and “Earth’s Dragon,” estimated to be more than 100 years old. They are especially admired as ancient specimens of Kureha weeping plums.And this is a place where nighttime can be the main event. During the illumination period, the garden stays open until 20:30 (last admission 20:00), and watching the blossoms glow against the darkness creates a fantastical atmosphere distinct from nighttime cherry blossoms.Dress warmly. On windy days, it can feel much colder than you might expect. Nearby attractions (Mie Prefecture) One of the best things about Suzuka no Mori Garden is how easy it is to plan nearby sightseeing around your preferred style of trip. If you want to add a quiet, reflective moment, visiting Tsubaki Grand Shrine is a great option, with forest air that helps you reset. For family trips, pairing the outing with Suzuka Circuit makes planning easier by adding a major attraction. If you spend the evening out for the illuminations, ending the day by warming up in the Yunoyama Onsen area leaves a clean, satisfying afterglow. Basic information Location: 151-2 Yamamoto-cho, Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture Open period: Feb 21 to late March (planned, varies by year) Fee: 700–2,000 yen (varies depending on bloom conditions) Access: Approximate travel times available from Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station, JR Yokkaichi Station, Kintetsu Komono Station, and others Official website: https://www.akatsuka.gr.jp/group/suzuka/index.html Conclusion｜Plum Blossoms in Kansai Become a “Spring Story,” Including the Journey Itself Plum blossom destinations in Kansai each have completely different expressions, even though they all feature the same flower. Overlooking the sea and city (Hokura Plum Grove, Kobe, Hyogo) Enveloped by fragrance on a grand scale (Minabe Plum Grove, Minabe Town, Wakayama) A story inspired by Yoshino (Ano Plum Grove, Gojo City, Nara) Walking through a scenic gorge (Tsukigase Plum Valley, Nara City, Nara) The bond between learning and plums (Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto City, Kyoto) Overlapping seasons in a garden (Jonangu Shrine, Kyoto City, Kyoto) A mountain panorama of colors (Inabe City Plum Grove Park, Inabe City, Mie) A fantasy that comes alive at night (Suzuka no Mori Garden, Suzuka City, Mie) For travel planning, Kyoto is easy to organize as day trips centered on temples and shrines, while in Nara, the time spent walking itself adds to the satisfaction of the journey. In Mie, combining a car or tour makes travel much more comfortable, and the flexibility to change destinations depending on fees and bloom conditions is a major advantage.Lastly, because flowering forecasts can fluctuate from place to place, checking official bloom updates once before departure will help you travel with peace of mind. .caption-heading-2 { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; margin-bottom: 15px; max-width: 800px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 40px; } .caption-information-table { background-color: #efefef; margin-top: -20px; margin-bottom: 50px; padding: 20px; border-radius: 8px; width: 90%; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-information-table.blue { background-color: #fffaef; } .caption-information-table .title { font-weight: bold; font-size: 1.7rem; } @media screen and (max-width: 1024px) { .caption-information-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 30px 15px; } } .caption-heading-table .caption-text li { line-height: 2.5rem; margin-top: 1.3rem; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading { position: relative; border-left: 5px solid #ff1300; padding-left: 10px; margin-top: 60px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-text { margin-bottom: 50px; } .mod-article-caption .caption-heading-table { width: 95%; padding: 30px 15px 1px 15px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; } .caption-heading-table ul{ counter-reset: listnum; /* カウンターをリセット */ list-style: none; /* 標準のスタイルは消す */ font-size: 1.5rem !important; margin-bottom: 15px; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li{ margin-left: 1.1em; text-indent: -1.1em; font-weight: bold; } .caption-heading-table ul.list-style-number-jp>li::before{ counter-increment: listnum; /* counter-resetと同じ文字列 */ content: counter(listnum); /* カウントした数に応じて番号を表示 */ content: counter(listnum) ". 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The Complete Guide to the 2026 Nagasaki Lantern Festival One of the signature winter events in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture is the Nagasaki Lantern Festival. In 2026, it will be held from Friday, February 6 to Monday, February 23 (national holiday), and the city center will be illuminated in vivid colors by around 15,000 lanterns. On the opening day, Friday, February 6, the lanterns are lit from 18:00 following the lighting ceremony. From Saturday, February 7 onward, standard lighting hours are 17:00 to 22:00 (with lights extinguished at 21:00 on the final day). In addition, from Saturday, February 7 onward, the Shinchi Chinatown and Hamanomachi venues will be lit from 12:00 (subject to change due to weather and other conditions). What Is the History of the Nagasaki Lantern Festival? Photo: Nagasaki Lantern Festival The history of the Nagasaki Lantern Festival traces back to the “Shunsetsusai (Spring Festival)” celebrations held by the community in Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown. What began as a beloved event to celebrate Shunsetsu (the Lunar New Year) grew in popularity, and in 1994, it expanded in scale and became the “Nagasaki Lantern Festival.” Today, it is firmly established as a cherished winter tradition in Nagasaki. The idea of lighting the city with lanterns is said to originate from the Chinese custom of decorating with lanterns for Yuanxiao Festival. As a result, the festival naturally weaves in Chinese cultural elements, not only through illuminated decorations but also through events such as the Emperor’s Parade and Nagasaki's unique Jaodori dragon dance. What Are the Highlights of the Nagasaki Lantern Festival? (Four Key Points) There are four main highlights: a spectacle of colors, the energy of the parades, the main centerpiece returning for the first time in two years, and hands-on experiences and street food. Start by enjoying the shifting colors of the lanterns, as each venue offers a distinct atmosphere. Next, let the movement of the parades and performances lift your spirits. After taking in the highlight of the trip, this year’s one-of-a-kind main centerpiece, round things off with hands-on experiences and street food to end well and truly satisfied. Even for first-time visitors, following this order helps ensure you don’t miss much and naturally leads to a more satisfying experience. Highlight 1: A Spectacle of Colors What makes this festival so fun is that the venues are spread out, so “the scenery changes the more you walk.” As the dominant hues shift from red to pink to yellow, simply wandering becomes sightseeing in itself. For detailed lighting hours, please check the event information above. (This may change due to weather and other conditions.) Where Are the Most Striking Red Lantern Displays? (Hamanomachi, Chuo Park, Around Shinchi Chinatown) Photo: Nagasaki Lantern Festival The red zone is essentially the festival's main artery. In Hamanomachi (around the Kanko-dori shopping arcade), both the crowds and the density of lanterns stand out, and simply walking through instantly gives you the feeling of having truly arrived at the Nagasaki Lantern Festival. Chuo Park also hosts the opening lighting ceremony, making it an easy and convenient starting point for your evening. From Shinchi Chinatown toward Minato Park, large-scale displays and events tend to cluster, so for first-timers, this is the area you can confidently say is “not to be missed.” Where Are the Prettiest Pink Lantern Displays? (Shinchi Chinatown, Doza River) Photo: Nagasaki Lantern Festival at Doza River A well-known spot for pink lanterns stretches from around Shinchi Chinatown to the Doza River. Offical venue guides describe this area as a place where the riverside brightens with a rosy glow. Because it sits slightly away from the busiest core, your walking pace naturally slows, making it easier to enjoy photos and conversation. Reflections on the water also make it easy to capture social-media-friendly photos, even without special equipment. Where Does Yellow Feel Most Dreamlike? (Nakajima River, Meganebashi Bridge) Photo: Nagasaki Lantern Festival at Meganebashi Bridge The world of yellow centers on Nakajima River Park and the area around Meganebashi (Spectacles Bridge). Venue introductions describe it as a quintessential Nagasaki waterside scene, where yellow lanterns reflected on the river create a dreamlike view alongside Meganebashi. Meganebashi (Spectacles Bridge) is a stone bridge said to have been built in 1634 and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Part of it collapsed in the 1982 Nagasaki flood and was later restored, giving you a “story behind the view” to share as you visit. Along the Nakajima River embankment near the bridge, you can also find several heart-shaped stones (Heart Stones) embedded in the riverbank. Searching for them as you stroll has become a classic, treasure-hunt-style pastime. These Heart Stones were placed during improvements to the Nakajima River area following the Nagasaki flood disaster, and they are now also known as a spot associated with wishes for romance. Finding one gives you a small burst of joy, and it is an easy photo spot to introduce to overseas visitors, too, such as saying, “There are hidden hearts in the stones along the riverbank.” Highlight 2: The Energy of the Parades If the lanterns are the festival’s “still” charm, the events bring its “motion” to life. There are both street parades that weave through the city and performances held at venues. Picking events that fit your itinerary will significantly boost your overall experience. What Is the Emperor’s Parade? (Dates, Route, Scale) Photo: Nagasaki Lantern Festival Emperor’s Parade The Emperor’s Parade is a lavish procession inspired by how an emperor and empress might celebrate the New Year with the public during the Qing dynasty. Centered on the ceremonial palanquins carrying the emperor and empress, around 150 participants, including banner units, march in Chinese costumes. In 2026, the parade will be held on Saturday, February 14 and Saturday, February 21, following the officially designated route from Chuo Park to Minato Park, making it easy for travelers to plan ahead. It has also been announced that Mizuki Maehara will play the emperor on Saturday, February 21, which is likely to make that day especially popular. The Mazu Procession: Echoes of Nagasaki’s Port City HeritageThe Mazu (Maso) Procession recreates the ritual of enshrining Mazu, a deity revered for safe voyages, at the Mazu Hall of a To-dera (Chinese temple). Its appeal lies in experiencing, through the festival itself, how Nagasaki grew and prospered as a city shaped by the sea. When Can You See the Jaodori Dragon Dance? Photo: Jaodori dragon dance at the Nagasaki Lantern Festival Jaodori is a powerful performance said to have originated from Shinto rituals for rainmaking, with performers controlling a dragon body about 20 meters long. Venue information introduces it as being held every day during the festival, which is great for travelers because it reduces the risk of missing it due to scheduling. Times and locations may change, so checking the official schedule on the day is the most reliable approach. Where Can You Watch the Chinese Face-Changing Show? The face-changing show is most commonly watched at the Nagasaki Confucius Shrine (Koshi-byo). According to the shrine’s guidance, no reservation is required, you can watch with admission only, and in rainy weather, the show is performed in a covered corridor. The fees are also clearly stated: individual admission to the Confucius Shrine (including museum entry) is 660 yen for adults, 440 yen for high school students, and 330 yen for elementary and junior high school students. It is a helpful point for travelers who want to keep their trip budget organized. Highlight 3: The Long-Awaited Main Centerpiece What makes 2026 uniquely “this year only” is the new main centerpiece returning for the first time in two years. In 2025, a new centerpiece was shelved due to factors such as rising costs, but in 2026 it will be produced using a furusato nozei (hometown tax) fund. The new work in Minato Park is introduced as an 11-meter-tall piece called “Ryoma Seishin (ロンマー・ジンシェン)”, combining the zodiac horse with an ascending dragon. Minato Park is also a “hub” where large-scale displays and events tend to gather in addition to the main centerpiece. Even if you have limited free time on a guided tour, simply covering this venue can make it easier to feel satisfied with your visit. Highlight 4: Hands-On Experiences and Street Food If you want more than just viewing, focus on experiences and food. The strength here is not just the vibe, but that how to join, prices, and content are all clearly laid out. What Is the Candle Prayer Four-Hall Pilgrimage? (Locations, Content, Fee) The Candle Prayer Four-Hall Pilgrimage is an interactive program held at the Tojin Yashiki (Chinese Residents’ Compound) venue. You visit four halls that remain in an area where Chinese merchants once stayed, Doshindo, Tenho-do, Kannon-do, and Fukken Kaikan, and make a wish by lighting a red candle. The participation fee is 500 yen, and it is stated that all participants receive a commemorative gift. Walk-around events can easily become nonstop walking, but adding an “experience with a purpose” like this helps set a comfortable pace and makes it easier to stay energized into the evening. What Street Foods Are Popular? (Easy to Choose with Concrete Examples) Photo: Food stalls Event information notes that there are many stalls, and gives examples such as kakuni manju (steamed bun with braised pork belly), butaman (pork bun), chocolate yori-yori, hatoshi, ma lai gao (steamed sponge cake), and grilled soup dumplings. Booking a proper dinner reservation is great, but lantern-lit nights pair perfectly with food-hopping. Even during a tour’s free time, you can enjoy “a little bit of what you like” while adjusting your travel budget. On crowded days, it is smart to buy earlier, such as right after the lights turn on or between moves, when lines tend to be shorter. How Should You Get Around? (A Classic 2 to 3-Hour Route) If it’s your first time, the following order is easy to follow and hard to miss:Red (Hamanomachi, Chuo Park) → Pink (Doza River) → Yellow (Meganebashi Bridge) → Minato Park (main centerpiece) The lights turn on from 17:00. During the magic hour just after sunset, the deep blue sky and the lantern colors overlap beautifully, making the scenery look even more striking. How Do You Access the Venues? (Streetcars Are Convenient) Because the venues are scattered across the city center, the basic approach for travelers is streetcar plus walking. For key routes between venues and how to think about the nearest stops, it is safest to follow the official venue and access information. Summary The Nagasaki Lantern Festival in Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture developed from Shunsetsusai and has now become a signature winter, walk-around event in Nagasaki. In 2026, it will run from February 6 to February 23, and with some days featuring 12:00 lighting, it is also easy to fit into your itinerary. Walk through the “spectacle of colors” in red, pink, and yellow, feel the cultural energy through the Emperor’s Parade, Jaodori, and the face-changing show, and mark “this year’s Nagasaki” with the main centerpiece returning after two years. Finally, round out your trip with the four-hall pilgrimage and street food-hopping to lock in a truly satisfying travel experience. Nagasaki City Official Tourism Site: Travel Nagasaki

Right now, Japan’s kei trucks (keitora) are quietly gaining a stronger presence in the United States In the U.S., where full-size pickups are the norm, the sight of small trucks only about 1.5 meters wide lined up together is unforgettable once you see it. In this article, based on the video “【日本の評判】アメリカで日本の軽トラ人気の様子 rev,” we will take a look at how kei cars and kei trucks have been used in Japan, why Japanese kei trucks are becoming more popular in the U.S. right now, and what makes the Suzuki Carry, Daihatsu Hijet, and Honda Acty (often said to be especially popular overseas) so appealing. we will take our time and explore it all from the perspective of a kei-truck enthusiast. Photo: A kei truck working in a Japanese vineyard What kind of everyday life have Japan’s kei trucks been driving through? Kei trucks are vehicles that carry the feel of Japan’s worksites wherever they go. Along rice paddy paths, they trundle along with harvested vegetables stacked in crates on the bed, and at forestry sites, they climb mountain roads loaded with cut logs. In rural areas where farming and forestry thrive, such as Aomori Prefecture, kei trucks are not something special. They are closer to everyday tools, the kind you expect to see parked right in front of the house. Their compact size lets them slip into narrow farm roads and winding mountain routes, their three-way drop-side bed makes it easy to load and unload heavy cargo from the side, and their fuel efficiency and low running costs make them economical. You could list reasons endlessly, but in the end it comes down to one thing: they have been used for so long simply because they are convenient. What is interesting is that, in Japan, kei trucks are seen as “work tools,” yet once they reach the U.S., they are increasingly treated as “cars people want and choose on purpose.” Why are Japanese kei trucks popular in the United States? When you picture American road culture, what probably comes to mind first is a huge pickup truck. Full-size pickups rumbling down the highway are impressive, and they feel like “this is America.” Photo: Pickup trucks in the United States And then, all of a sudden, kei trucks from Japan show up lined up alongside them.A small, boxy vehicle that is only about half the length and width of a big pickup. Yet when people actually try using one on farms, private property, or in the narrow alleys of older towns, they start saying, “This size is just right.” Japan’s kei trucks were originally built to be used on tight roads and in limited spaces. That is why, even on America’s vast land, they can get into hard-to-reach areas on large properties and glide through back alleys in older towns without stress. They effortlessly handle tasks that were awkward with a big truck. On top of that, the U.S. has a system often called the “25-year rule.”Once a vehicle reaches a certain age, regulations become less strict, making it easier to import and register it as a classic car. As a result, kei trucks from the 1990s through the early 2000s are now beginning to make their way to the U.S.In Japan, a kei truck sold off with the thought, “Maybe it’s time to replace it,” is welcomed in the U.S. as “a slightly rare Japanese vehicle you can legally drive.” That is the quiet root of the kei truck's sudden rise in popularity in the US. Photo: Kei truck They are easy to maneuver, the bed is genuinely useful, and fuel economy is good.Prices also often stay within reach as a second vehicle, whether for work or for fun.Step by step, that is steadily increasing the number of people saying, “If I’m getting one more vehicle, my next one will be a kei truck.” Top 3 kei trucks said to be popular overseas Suzuki Carry, Daihatsu Hijet, and Honda Acty From here, we will look at the top three kei trucks said to be popular overseas, especially in the U.S., one by one.If you picture each one while matching the vibe of the video, they are all the kind of vehicles that make you grin. Suzuki Carry: The “worksite staple” chosen for durability Photo: A SUZUKI kei truck The biggest reason the Suzuki Carry introduced in 【動画】2:05 is highly regarded is, of course, its durability and peace of mind.For a vehicle used for work, being hard to break is more important than anything else. The Carry has a long track record of quietly working year after year in harsh environments, including farm roads, mountain routes, and construction sites. Because the design is traditional and simple, it is easy to maintain, and parts are relatively easy to source. Even older model years can keep running surprisingly well if they have been properly maintained. Some units, depending on the year, also come equipped with safety features such as dual airbags and ABS. That helps ease the worry that “it’s small, so it must be unsafe.” For these reasons, even at U.S. import shops specializing in kei trucks, the Carry often appears in larger numbers, and it tends to be a common pick for someone's first kei truck. Daihatsu Hijet: An all-rounder chosen for ease of driving and balance Photo: Daihatsu Hijet kei truck Next up is the Daihatsu Hijet, introduced in 【動画】4:05.It is a kei truck that has long reigned as a top seller in Japan, and that track record itself is like proof of reliability. The Hijet’s appeal lies in how well balanced it is overall. The cabin feels relatively roomy for a kei truck, making it easy to get in and out. From the driver’s seat, visibility is wide, and even though it is a “work tool,” it can feel closer to driving a passenger car. As for performance, it is not overly powerful, but it is not underpowered either. It feels just right.From paved roads to unpaved routes, it is an all-rounder that can handle almost anything without strain.That is why, in the U.S., it is not uncommon to hear people say, “If you’re getting your first kei truck, go with a Hijet.”If the Carry is the image of a “tough work tool,” then the Hijet is more like a “well-rounded kei truck that you can drive every day without getting tired.” Honda Acty: A “fun to drive” kei truck with a standout MR layout The third one is the Honda Acty.The Acty is a bit more niche among kei trucks.What makes it distinctive is that some generations use Honda’s unique mid-ship, rear-wheel-drive (MR) layout.With the engine mounted just behind the cabin, toward the front of the bed, the front-to-rear weight balance is good. That makes its movement feel natural and light when you turn the wheel.Even though it is a “tool for hauling,” it is also “a little fun to drive.”It offers the best of both worlds.Whether it is slipping smoothly through narrow city alleys or showing up at a rough job site, the Acty somehow always seems just as dependable and enjoyable to drive.For anyone who wants one vehicle to handle farm work and a casual weekend drive, it can be the perfect partner in kei-truck form. What the kei trucks in the video can teach us In the video “【日本の評判】アメリカで日本の軽トラ人気の様子 rev,” a lineup of vehicles that came from Japan fills the inside of a kei-truck specialty shop. And it is not just the “usual suspects” like the Carry, Hijet, and Acty. The Pajero Mini VR-2 introduced in 【動画】2:20, with gimmicks like full-flat seats and overhead grab straps, feels less like a kei truck and more like a “tiny adventure tool.” Fold the seats down and it looks like you could create enough space to sleep in the car, and straps hang from the ceiling for hooking gear. In Japan, it is known as a “kei car that’s handy for a bit of fun,” but from an American point of view, it likely feels like one surprise after another, as in, “It’s this small, and they thought of all this?” The Subaru Sambar dump model introduced in 【動画】4:27 is a vehicle that packs a serious dump function into a small body. Seeing the bed lift up with a big clunk is exciting no matter how many times you watch, if you like kei trucks. If you imagine it loaded with gravel, soil, or firewood and dumped all at once, it is easy to picture it working on an American farm or construction site. The Mitsubishi Minicab introduced in 【動画】4:32 does not make a flashy statement, but when it comes to being genuinely useful, it is extremely dependable. With its simple, straightforward build, it feels like the kind of vehicle that quietly keeps you company through daily work. Rather than “customize it to show off,” it is the kind of truck that owners who want to “work it hard on site” tend to appreciate.And kei vans like the Honda Street are also slowly gaining popularity in the U.S. With a large cargo area that feels like a kei truck bed turned into a box, it can be used for deliveries or even as a simple camper, depending on your ideas. Looking at them one by one, you can see that it would be a shame to lump everything together under the single label “kei truck.” Each model has its own distinct character. A kei truck that worked in Japan goes on to drive a “second life” in the United States Photo: Kei truck A kei truck that worked in rural Japan finishes its role, gets serviced by an exporter, is loaded into a container, and crosses the ocean.A vehicle that spent season after season driving through Aomori Prefecture’s apple orchards may be hauling hay on an American farm a few years later. Scenes like that are steadily becoming less unusual.A vehicle that was treated in Japan as “an old kei truck”is cared for in the U.S. as “a rare and convenient Japanese truck.”Even with the same kei truck, its value can change dramatically simply depending on who is looking at it and where it is used.That may be because a vehicle is not just a means of transportation, but also a tool that reflects how people live in that place. For anyone who is starting to get curious about kei trucks If you have read this far and found yourself imagining, “Which kei truck would I choose?”, then you already have one foot in the kei-truck world.If you want toughness, go with the Suzuki Carry.If you want a well-balanced truck that is easy to use every day, choose the Daihatsu Hijet.If you want a partner that is fun to drive, pick the Honda Acty.Then there is the question of how to mix in a “curveball” like a Sambar dump, or a kei van like the Honda Street.Spending time thinking about that may be part of what makes kei trucks so enjoyable.Whether you are in Japan or in the U.S., start by watching the video “【日本の評判】アメリカで日本の軽トラ人気の様子 rev” and imagining how you would use your one chosen vehicle.A kei truck born from Japan’s worksites might cross the ocean and become your next “potential partner.”

Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, Takahashi City, Okayama｜Enjoy Autumn Foliage and a Sea of Clouds at the Castle in the Sky The video “Reiwa Autumn Leaves: Bitchu Matsuyama Castle” (approx. 2 minutes 36 seconds), released by Yomiuri Shimbun Online, introduces the autumn scenery of Bitchu Matsuyama Castle. Without narration or commentary, the footage calmly shows the castle and stone walls wrapped in autumn leaves accompanied by soothing background music. Its simplicity emphasizes the visual and auditory appeal, leaving viewers wanting to go see it for themselves after watching. Photo: Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan’s Twelve Original Castles (Okayama Prefecture, Takahashi City) What is Bitchu Matsuyama Castle? A Famous Castle Counted Among the 12 Surviving Original Tenshu Located at the summit of Mt. Gagyu (approx. 430 meters above sea level) in Takahashi City, Okayama Prefecture, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle is considered along with Iwamura Castle and Takatori Castle to be one of the Three Great Mountain Castles of Japan. Its origins date back to the Kamakura period, and during the Sengoku period it became a strategic stronghold contested by powerful warlords such as the Mōri　clan. Its most distinctive feature is that the tenshu (main keep) built in the Edo period still survives today. It is one of only 12 genzon tenshu (original surviving castle keeps) in the country and, moreover, is the only surviving mountain castle keep in Japan. The wooden architecture and solid stone walls convey the atmosphere of the Edo period, making it feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. Visible from the city below, the castle remains a symbol of Takahashi. Why It’s Called the “Castle in the Sky” From autumn through winter, when morning fog gathers in the valleys, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle appears to float above a sea of clouds. This mystical scene has earned it the nickname “Castle in the Sky,” attracting visitors from across Japan. Photo: Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, Okayama Prefecture Takeda Castle in Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture, is also called the “Castle in the Sky” and is nicknamed the “Machu Picchu of Japan.” However, at Takeda Castle the vast stone ruins are the highlight. In contrast, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle still has its original keep, and it is the only place in Japan where you can see an original keep floating in a sea of clouds. Comparing the two as you walk the grounds in person will make the differences even more apparent. Photos of the sea of clouds are frequently shared on social media and featured in the media, drawing nationwide attention. Best Conditions and Timing to See the Sea of Clouds The sea of clouds is most likely to appear from late September to early April in the early morning until around 8 a.m., with late October to early December being the peak period for thick fog. Conditions include a large temperature difference from the previous day, radiative cooling, weak winds, and recent rainfall. When these factors combine, the castle appears to float in the sky in a dreamlike scene. The Bitchu Matsuyama Castle Cloud Sea Observatory is the standard viewing spot. Located on a peak separate from the castle keep, it is only a one-minute walk from the parking lot. The site is about a 20-minute drive from JR Bitchu-Takahashi Station, and during autumn to spring, a reservation-based shared taxi service is also available. Best Season for Autumn Leaves and Scenic Viewing Points Autumn foliage at Bitchu Matsuyama Castle typically peaks from mid to late November. The surrounding trees turn vivid shades of red and gold, further enhancing the beauty of the tenshu and stone walls. Photo: Autumn leaves at Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, Okayama Prefecture If you’re lucky, you may witness both autumn leaves and the sea of clouds together, as shown in the video. The striking contrast of red, yellow, and white is breathtaking and unique to this season. Great photo spots include not only within the castle grounds but also along the mountain path and from the observatory. Morning and afternoon lighting dramatically change the atmosphere, offering different scenery depending on the time of your visit. How is Takeda Castle Different from Bitchu Matsuyama Castle? Takeda Castle in Hyogo Prefecture was built during the Muromachi period and later came under the control of the Yamana clan and Toyotomi Hideyoshi during the Sengoku period. However, it was abandoned in the early Edo period, leaving only the vast stone ruins. Its magnificent stone walls rising above the clouds earned it the nickname “Machu Picchu of Japan.” Photo: Ruins of Takeda Castle, Hyogo Prefecture In contrast, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle in Takahashi, Okayama, originated in the Kamakura period and retains its tenshu built during the Edo period. Thus, Takeda Castle represents “a ruin that lets you imagine the past,” while Bitchu Matsuyama Castle offers “a mountain castle where you can experience an original keep.” Both are famous for their sea of clouds, but their historical backgrounds and surviving structures differ greatly. Visiting both allows you to appreciate the diverse faces of Japan’s “Castles in the Sky.” Sightseeing and Local Cuisine in Takahashi City After visiting Bitchu Matsuyama Castle, exploring the castle town and tasting local specialties is another highlight of the trip. Takahashi is known for its agricultural products, including the sweet “Pione” grapes and rich “Momotaro Tomatoes.” In summer, ayu fish caught in the Takahashi River are grilled and served in local restaurants as a seasonal delicacy. In addition, the traditional confectionery “Yubeshi,” crafted by the long-established shop Tennindo, remains a popular souvenir. Photo: “Yubeshi,” a traditional confectionery from Okayama Local specialties also include “Indian Tomato Yakisoba,” a popular dish at Gomangoku restaurant. You can also enjoy soba noodles at Hokoan and tofu dishes at Koibi Tofu Kumojirou. For a relaxing break, the Starbucks inside Tsutaya Bookstore at Takahashi City Library is a convenient stop, loved by both locals and visitors. Combining these gourmet experiences makes your trip even more fulfilling. For example, visit the Cloud Sea Observatory in the morning, explore the castle before noon, enjoy “Indian Tomato Yakisoba” for lunch, stroll the castle town and confectionery shops in the afternoon, and finish the day with soba or tofu dishes. Such a day plan is highly recommended. Access and Visitor Information Address: 1 Uchisange, Takahashi City, Okayama Prefecture Access (Castle Keep): From JR Bitchu-Takahashi Station, walk about 10 minutes to “Shiro-machi Station,” then take the shuttle bus to Fuyogo Pass (about 5 minutes), followed by a 20-minute walk to the tenshu. On non-bus days, cars can be driven directly to Fuyogo Pass. By taxi, it takes about 10 minutes from the station (around 1,700 yen one way). Cloud Sea Observatory: Located on a separate peak from the castle keep, 1-minute walk from the parking lot. About 20 minutes by car from the station. A reservation-based shared taxi service runs during autumn to spring. Opening Hours: April–September 9:00–17:30 (last entry 17:00), October–March 9:00–16:30 (last entry 16:00) Closed: December 29 – January 3 Admission: Adults 500 yen, Elementary/Junior High Students 200 yen For more details, please see the official website: https://www.bitchumatsuyamacastle.jp/ Conclusion: A Perfect Autumn Destination, the Castle in the Sky As the only mountain castle in Japan with a surviving original keep, Bitchu Matsuyama Castle offers a rare experience where you can enjoy both nature and history through autumn leaves and a sea of clouds. Along with Takeda Castle, it is called the “Castle in the Sky,” but knowing their differences makes your journey even more rewarding. Combining castle town walks with local food makes a trip to Takahashi even more enjoyable. Watching the castle surrounded by clouds and autumn colors in the early morning will surely be an unforgettable experience.

Ginkakuji Temple (Jisho-ji) Video Introduction Ginkakuji Temple (official name: Jisho-ji), located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. The video "Ginkakuji Temple (Jisho-ji)" introduces its charm in a beautifully filmed presentation. From the very beginning (00:00), viewers are greeted with scenes of bamboo fences, stone walls, and gently winding paths. The sight of the grounds, with visitors strolling quietly to the accompaniment of the soft sounds of birds, leaves a lasting impression. Highlights such as the Ginsadan (Silver Sand Terrace), a moss-covered garden, and a waterfall with soothing sounds are beautifully captured starting at (01:12). By the end of the video, you may feel as though you’ve actually walked through the site. What is Ginkakuji, the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto's Sakyo Ward? Ginkakuji is a Zen temple built by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the 8th shogun of the Muromachi shogunate. Its official name is Higashiyama Jisho-ji. Alongside Kinkakuji (Rokuon-ji), this temple is highly regarded. It originated as Yoshimasa’s retirement villa, the “Higashiyama Palace,” and was later converted into a Zen temple after his death. Photo: Kannon Hall at Ginkakuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto At the heart of the complex is the Kannon Hall, commonly known as the “Silver Pavilion.” Despite the name, no silver leaf was used. Its subdued elegance symbolizes Higashiyama culture. In 1994, it was designated as one of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto,” a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. The Kannon Hall (Silver Pavilion), the central structure of teh temple, was also designated a National Treasure in 1951 for its architectural value as a masterwork from the Muromachi period. Garden Aesthetics at Their Finest: Highlights of Ginkakuji Photo: Ginsadan at Ginkakuji Temple in Kyoto The artistic beauty of Ginsadan and Kogetsudai The Ginsadan, a dry landscape garden made of white sand, is one of the temple’s most iconic features. Designed to reflect moonlight, at night it conveys a mystical, otherwordly scene. The adjacent Kogetsudai is believed to have been built for moon viewing. Photo: Kannon Hall and Kogetsudai at Ginkakuji Temple, a UNESCO site in Kyoto These spots are popular for taking impressive photos. The patterns in the white sand change subtly with the light, offering something new with each visit. The serene moss garden and pond One of the first sights upon entering is the lush moss garden. Although moss thrives in shade and moisture, at Ginkakuji it spreads like a green carpet, perfectly maintained to offer a tranquil setting. Photo: Moss at Ginkakuji Temple, Kyoto The color of the moss subtly changes with the seasons, with fresh green in spring, deep green in summer, brown mingled with fallen leaves in autumn, and a frosty silver hue in winter. Each season brings a unique atmosphere. Walking through the gardens, you may feel transported to a mental oasis, as if even the very air and atmosphere are different. It's a calming escape from daily life. The beauty of tradition found in the details Ginkakuji’s appeal goes beyond famous structures. Its true appeal lies in the refined beauty of the details that captivate visitors. For example, a small waterfall in the garden appears around (01:12) in the video. Its gentle sound blends imperceptibly with the moss-covered rocks and trees, creating a serene sense of harmony with nature. Photo: Sengetsusen at Ginkakuji Temple, Kyoto Along the paths are small stone bridges and delicately woven bamboo fences that softly divide garden spaces. These details draw attention the more you look. Seasonal plants and red-berried shrubs add subtle accents to the greenery. Though these may seem like minor elements, they play vital roles in Japanese gardens. Their restrained yet captivating beauty reflects the essence of *wabi-sabi*, the Japanese aesthetic of imperfection and impermanence. Stone lanterns and moss-covered steps along the path reveal something new with each step, like turning the pages of a picture scroll with your own feet. Visitor Information: Access and Admission To reach Ginkakuji, take a city bus from Demachiyanagi Station (Keihan Line) to “Ginkakuji-mae,” which takes about 10 minutes. From the bus stop, it's about a 5-minute walk. Walking along the Philosopher's Path is also recommended, offering seasonal scenery and a peaceful pace. Admission Fees Adults: 500 yen, Elementary/Middle School Students: 300 yen Opening Hours Open year-round8:30–17:00 (March–November)9:00–16:30 (December–February) Plan to spend around 40 minutes to 1 hour. Mornings are generally less crowded and more serene. Nearby Attractions Philosopher’s Path Photo: Philosopher’s Path in spring, Kyoto The Philosopher’s Path extends south from Ginkakuji along a canal lined with cherry trees. Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, and fallen leaves cover the path in autumn. It’s known as the path walked by philosopher Nishida Kitaro and offers beautiful seasonal scenes. Eikando Temple & Nanzenji Temple Area Photo: Autumn light-up at Eikando Temple, Kyoto Within a 15–20 minute walk are Eikando, renowned for autumn foliage, and Nanzenji, famous for its aqueduct. Both are historic Zen temples, with exquisite gardens and architecture, making them ideal to visit along with Ginkakuji. Traditional Kyoto Cuisine Around Ginkakuji, you’ll find long-established restaurants serving dishes like yudofu (hot tofu), namafu dengaku, and Kyoto vegetables. Enjoying lunch in a calm Japanese-style setting is the perfect break during your visit. Voices from Visitors: Discovering the Appeal of Ginkakuji Highlights Shared in Reviews Reviews include comments like “More peaceful than expected, it was spiritually refreshing” and “Every view was so beautiful, I couldn’t stop taking pictures.” International visitors also praise it, saying it’s “a place to experience the spirit of Zen” and “one of the most serene temples in Kyoto.” A Photographer’s Paradise From Ginsadan to the Kannon Hall and pond reflections, Ginkakuji offers numerous photo-worthy scenes. Seasonal changes, such as the autumn leaves, spring greenery, and winter snow, make for stunning photographs year-round. The best time for photography is in the morning when the angled sunlight creates especially beautiful effects. Conclusion: A World of Tranquility that Embodies Japanese Culture Ginkakuji is more than a tourist attraction. It embodies the Japanese aesthetic of *wabi-sabi* and offers new insights and calm with each visit. If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Ginkakuji—a place where you can step away from daily noise and restore your spirit. Access and Official Information Address: 2 Ginkakuji-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture Phone: 075-771-5725 Official Website: https://www.shokoku-ji.jp/en/ginkakuji/

A Gathering of Deer in Nara Park, Nara City! The Fascinating Scene in Front of the Great Buddha Hall Nara Park in Nara City, Nara Prefecture is a famous tourist destination where visitors can interact with freely roaming deer. Even for Nara, Ukigumo Garden is notable as a special place where tourists and deer coexist in harmony. Additionally, visitors near the Great Buddha Hall can often get a glimpse of deer using the intersection to cross the road! This article introduces the charm of these deer, etiquette to follow when visiting, and detailed access information. What Is Nara Park in Nara City? A Town Where People and Deer Live Together Photo: Nara Park in Nara Prefecture | A deer resting on the approach to Todai-ji Temple Nara Park is a vast urban park spanning about 660 hectares in the heart of Nara City. Within the park are UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Todai-ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Kofuku-ji Temple, making it a precious area where cultural heritage and nature coexist. The approximately 1,300 free-roaming deer are one of its main attractions. What Is Ukigumo Garden? Photo: Ukigumo Garden in Nara Park, Nara Prefecture One of the most popular spots within Nara Park is Ukigumo Garden. Located between Todai-ji Temple and Kofuku-ji Temple, this open space with wide lawns allows visitors to see deer wandering around freely, resting, or even frolicking about! Thanks to the picturesque scenery and the close proximity to the deer, it is a favorite destination for travelers. History and Protection of the Deer The deer in Nara have been revered for over 1,300 years as "divine messengers" of the deities of Kasuga Taisha Shrine. According to legend, Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto, the enshrined deity of Kasuga Taisha, arrived in Nara riding a white deer. This belief has led to the long-standing protection of the deer by the people. During the Edo period, harming a deer was punishable by death. Even today, the deer of Nara Park are designated as a Natural Monument of Japan. Although they are wild animals, they coexist with humans and are a cultural and historical symbol of Nara. What Is the “Deer Cracker” Experience? One of the most popular activities for visitors to Nara Park is feeding the deer with special "shika senbei" or deer crackers. These crackers, made from flour and rice bran, are additive-free and salt-free to ensure the deer’s health. They are sold in packs of 10 for 200 yen at park kiosks, temporary stalls, nearby convenience stores, and vending machines within the park. Photo: Deer crackers in Nara Park, Nara Prefecture Once you show the crackers, deer may approach you even from a distance. Some deer even bow their heads in anticipation of a treat, surprising and delighting many visitors. However, as a safety measure, it is recommended to feed them away from large groups to avoid being overwhelmed. Proper Etiquette and Tourist Manners Although the deer are used to people, they are still wild animals. Please follow these guidelines for a safe and enjoyable visit: Photo: Deer being fed deer crackers in Nara Park, Nara Prefecture * Do not startle the deer (no loud noises or flash photography) * Approach slowly from the front, not from behind * Never feed them anything other than deer crackers * Be gentle and observe their reactions when petting (do not force contact) * Children should always be accompanied by an adult * Always take your trash with you (deer may accidentally eat it and become ill) * Be careful with your belongings to avoid them being taken or eaten by deer * Dogs are natural enemies of deer. Always keep them on a leash and away from the deer to prevent accidents Deer Crossing at the Great Buddha Hall Intersection Draws Attention! Around 10:20 in the video, you can see the dramatic scene of deer crossing the road at the intersection in front of the Great Buddha Hall. The sight of deer confidently using the pedestrian crosswalk often stops tourists in their tracks. This phenomenon is most common during tourist seasons or feeding times and is widely shared on social media as a unique and "very Japanese" scene. What to Know Before Visiting Nara Park and Ukigumo Garden How to Enjoy Your Time with the Deer Recommended times are between 8:00–10:00 in the morning or after 4:00 in the evening. During these hours, there are fewer tourists, and the deer are more relaxed. The soft morning light creates ideal conditions for observing and photographing deer resting or interacting, including families with fawns. Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) offer mild weather and the deer’s coats are at their most beautiful, making the scenery particularly photogenic. In autumn, the contrast between the red foliage and the deer is especially stunning, attracting tourists from all over the world. Photogenic Spots for Social Media * Photos with deer in front of Todai-ji Temple * Deer lounging on the grass in Ukigumo Garden * Shots capturing both the Five-Story Pagoda and the deer These scenic compositions are especially popular among international visitors. COOLJAPANVIDEOS Access Information ・Approx. 5-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station ・Approx. 20-minute walk from JR Nara Station ・Nara Kotsu Bus: Get off at the "Todai-ji Daibutsuden / Kasuga Taisha Mae" stop Parking Nara Park does not have its own parking lots. Please use nearby paid parking lots operated by the prefecture or private coin-operated lots. During peak seasons (spring, autumn, national holidays), it is recommended to park further away, such as near JR Nara Station, and use the "Gurutto Bus" sightseeing loop or regular Nara Kotsu buses. Inquiries and Official Website * Nara Park Office: 0742-22-0375 * Official Website: https://www3.pref.nara.jp/park Conclusion: Enjoy a Special Moment with the Deer of Nara The deer you encounter in Nara Park are more than just tourist attractions—they are symbols of the city’s rich history and culture. Upholding proper manners helps to ensure your interaction with the deer will become a truly memorable experience. The views at Ukigumo Garden and the Great Buddha Hall intersection are sure to become highlights of your trip.