Visit Nara

BEST TIME TO GO 2017: May 15th - 21st

On a highland expanse close to the peak of Mt. Katsuragi in May each year, thousands of azalea bloom in pinks and reds. The red floral carpet which covers the mountain top, contrasting with the blue of the sky and the greens of the surrounding trees and mountains, draws hikers and photographers from afar. There is a ropeway which runs up Mt. Katsuragi in a matter of minutes, but you may want to consider one of the hikes which start out from the base of the ropeway: both take approximately 90 minutes and offer excellent views of the mountainside. For a longer walk, follow the Katsuragi Kodo, an ancient road running between Katsuragi and Gose.

HOW TO GET THERE:
The ropeway base station, Tozanguchi Station, is most easily accessed by bus from Kintetsu Gose Station (across from JR Gose Station). Buses depart from stop three and take 15-20 minutes.

From Osaka (60 mins, 2 changes)
Namba Station >> Shin-Imamiya Station
Shin-Imamiya Station >> Oji Station
Oji Station >> JR Gose Station

From Kyoto (90 mins, 2 changes)
Kyoto Station >> Kashiharajingu-mae Station
Kashiharajingu-mae Station >> Shakudo Station
Shakudo Station >> Kintetsu Gose Station

OTHER NEARBY AREAS TO EXPLORE
Kashihara Jingu
Taimadera
Sakurai