Visit Osaka

Category: Hiking

  • The Magnificent Takedao Abandoned Railway Hike

    The Magnificent Takedao Abandoned Railway Hike

    Just a 35-minute direct train ride from Osaka Station lies an abandoned railway in the Hyogo Prefecture. This railway, part of the old JR Fukuchiyama Line, has been repurposed into a magnificent 5-kilometer hiking trail. With its historical charm, stunning views of gorges and mountains, and the thrill of walking through unlit tunnels, this hike is an adventure worth taking. The trail is mostly flat and accessible, making it ideal for all levels of hikers, including families with children.

    How to Get There

    To start your journey, take the JR Fukuchiyama Line from Osaka Station. This is just one train ride from Osaka Station – no need to switch trains, which makes it even the more stress-free for your trip. You can choose to begin the hike at Namaze Station and end at Takedao Station, or reverse the route. Both directions are equally rewarding, but starting at Namaze Station provides a gentle introduction to the trail – and ends you at the most perfect cafe for lunch or a drink!

    From Osaka to Namaze Station:

    • Duration: Approximately 45 minutes from Osaka Station.
    • Fare: Approximately ¥500.
    • Directions: After exiting Namaze Station, turn right and follow the path downhill. Look for the trailhead near the Mukogawa River. You will walk alongside a road tunnel, with some impressive soundproofing technology. One through the tunnel, cross over the highway before making your way down to start the trail route.

    Trail Highlights

    Formed as part of the JR Fukuchiyama Line, the railway was abandoned when trains were diverted to new tracks. What remains is a peaceful and scenic hike through the Mukogawa Valley, surrounded by dense forests and flowing water.

    Essentials: Good walking shoes, snacks, friends, and most importantly, a torch (flashlight) for the dark tunnels. No, your phones light will not be good enough! (trust me, I thought it would be too…)

    Exploring the Tunnels

    The trail features six unlit tunnels, remnants of the old railway. Some are short and you can see either end, but some are long enough that you won’t be able to see the exit from the entrance, adding an adventurous element to the hike. The longest stretches 450 meters, requiring a reliable light source for safe passage.

    Atmosphere: There are moments when you might imagine a train suddenly thundering through, but rest assured, the tracks are no longer in use. There are also moments where you might be a bit scared if you don’t enjoy the darkness in the tunnels. Best to go in a group if you think this would be you!

    Scenic Bridges and Stunning Views

    As you cross bridges like the iconic Daini Mukogawa Bridge, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Mukogawa River below and the surrounding mountains. These spots are perfect for capturing the natural beauty of the valley.

    Ending at Takedao Station

    The hike concludes at Takedao Station, where you’ll find vending machines, small shops, and opportunities to relax. If time permits, unwind at Takedao Onsen, a local hot spring known for its rejuvenating waters and scenic surroundings.

    Is it worth it?

    This is by far the most rewarding hike I have been on from Osaka in terms of the scenery, the time it took to get to from Osaka, the level of difficulty and the atmosphere. Definitely my number 1 most recommended hike to go on from Osaka (so far!).

    PSA! If you do not have a group and would like someone to hike this route with you, please reach out via email to: enquiries@visitosaka.org and our tour guide will accompany you (with a torch!).

    @visitosaka

    Just 35 minute direct train from Osaka Station!! 🚊🥰 An abandoned railway in the Hyogo Prefecture has been adapted into a scenic 5km hiking trail. 🥾 Formed as part of the JR Fukuchiyama line, it now lies abandoned as trains are diverted down new tracks. However, what is left behind offers stunning views of gorges and mountains as you take on the adventure of also walking through absolute darkness. ⛰️ The hike in itself is not demanding as most of the way is flat ground. Ensure that you bring a torch (flashlight) 🔦!!with you as some of the tunnels are long enough that you won’t be able to see either end 👻 . There are times where paranoia that a train might come thundering through starts to sweep in but allow yourself to be eased into the comfort that knowledge is power and knowledge indicates that the railway is no longer in use. Things to bring: Good walking shoes, some snacks, friends, and most importantly a torch! If you wish to start from JR Namaze station and end up at JR Takedao station, there is an onsen nearby the station you are able to relax in. GETTING THERE Take the JR train from Osaka Station to JR Takedao station and follow the paths into the tunnels. The end of the hike will take you to JR Namaze station where a train will whisk you back to Osaka. #osaka #japan #travel #hiking #offthepath #takedao #walk #scenic #views #mountain #hyogo #lovelife #life 🇯🇵

    ♬ Mountain Life – Art Music
  • Mt. Yoshino Day Trip from Osaka – Hike, Temples & Timeless Views

    Mt. Yoshino Day Trip from Osaka – Hike, Temples & Timeless Views

    Ok, this is technically in Nara, but its an easily accessible hike from Osaka!…

    Mt. Yoshino in Nara Prefecture is the traditional famous place to see an impressive vista of cherry blossom trees (Sakura) in Japan (over 30,000 trees!). Mount Yoshino was designated as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004 called ‘Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range’. Here’s everything you need to plan your own trip.

    🕐 Hike Time: 4–6 hours round trip, depending on pace and how far you go
    🥾 Difficulty: Easy to moderate – mostly paved or gravel paths, some uphill sections
    🚻 Facilities: Toilets at stations, temples, and main viewpoints
    📶 Signal: Spotty in higher areas.

    Getting to Mt. Yoshino from Osaka

    Mt. Yoshino is super accessible from the city of Osaka. The easy way (recommended)is to get the train from Osaka-Abenobashi Station (right next to Tennoji Station), and take the Kintetsu Limited Express directly to Yoshino Station (吉野駅). The duration of the train ride is ~1 hour 15 minutes and will cost: Around ¥1,600–2,000 one-way.

    💡 Tip: Reserve a seat ahead of time, especially during cherry blossom season or weekends. You can buy tickets at the station or via the Kintetsu website.

    🐢 The Cheaper Way (Local Trains)
    If you’re not in a rush, take a local Kintetsu train with a transfer at Kashiharajingu-mae Station. It’s slower (closer to 2 hours) but a bit cheaper.

    Starting the Hike

    Once you arrive at Yoshino Station, the mountain hike begins right outside. You can walk or take the Yoshino Ropeway (when it’s running) up to the Naka Senbon area.

    🥾 Hiking Mt. Yoshino – What to Expect
    This isn’t a hardcore mountain hike—it’s more of a gentle, spiritual trail lined with shrines, shops, temples, and trees. The mountain is traditionally divided into four sections as you climb:

    🗺️ Shimo Senbon (lower) → Naka Senbon (middle) → Kami Senbon (upper) → Oku Senbon (inner/deep)

    You can turn back at any point, but here’s the route I followed for a well-paced, full-day experience:

    1. Yoshino Station to Naka Senbon – Winding Up Through Town 🌸
      The hike begins with a walk up through Shimo Senbon, where the narrow mountain road is lined with little shops selling mochi, tea, and local specialties like kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves). I grabbed some to-go and kept climbing as the slope was gentle.
    2. Kinpusenji Temple – A Sacred Stop ⛩️
      You’ll soon reach Kinpusenji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key location in Japan’s mountain-worship tradition (Shugendo). From here you will see an iconic view of the sakura. The wooden main hall is enormous, with dramatic beams and a deep, spiritual atmosphere. There is a small entrance fee of 200-yen.
    3. Kami Senbon – Forest Paths & Big Views 🌄
      Past the temple, the trail gets quieter and more forested. As you reach Kami Senbon, the views open up and you can see down into the valley and across the ridgelines of Mt. Yoshino. The Hanayagura Viewpoint is the big highlight here where the mountain turns pink in waves. I visited on peak bloom, and it was stunning. 💡 Cherry blossoms bloom in layers as you climb, so even if the town is past peak, higher elevations may still be in bloom. In other seasons, you’ll find green, misty mountain trails or fiery red leaves in autumn.
    4. Oku Senbon – Into the Deep 🌲
      If you’ve still got energy (and time), keep hiking into Oku Senbon—the deepest and most peaceful part of the mountain. The path gets quieter, wilder, and more serene, surrounded by towering cedars and little shrines tucked into the forest. I didn’t see many people past this point.
    @visitosaka

    This is the BEST location in the world to view the sakura in Japan & its just 1.5-2hrs from Osaka!! 🌸🥾🌲🏕️ This reel does not do it justice. The views are incredible. I’ll be writing a blog shortly about how to get to Mt Yoshino and what to expect. Check out visitosaka.org in the next few days! 09.04.2025 #sakuraschoolsimulator #japan #osaka #mtyoshino #cherryblossoms #tourism #travel #hiking

    ♬ Japanese-style dramatic piano song – スタジオ　Music Rabbit

    🍵 Where to Take a Break
    There are plenty of little rest stops and cafes along the trail, especially around Naka Senbon. My favourite spot is Yoshinoyama Sabo (吉野山茶房) – a lovely mountain teahouse with matcha desserts and seasonal sweets. You’ll also find small noodle shops and stalls selling grilled mochi or dango. Bring some cash, as not all shops take cards!

    Happy hiking!

  • Hidden Gem: Hiraoka Hike, Waterfall and Tsutsuji Flowers

    Hidden Gem: Hiraoka Hike, Waterfall and Tsutsuji Flowers

    To the north east of Osaka, there’s a park called Hiraoka Park. But there isn’t just a park – there are a lot of hiking routes here too! The route I’m going to take you through today is all uphill, starting and ending at Hiraoka Station.

    Indicative map of the hike and its main sights

    Level of difficulty: 4 out of 5 (elevation change ~400m). The duration of the hike can be as long as you want it to be, it can last between 3-5hrs and cover a distance of 10-12km. The route is steep, with plenty of places to rest. I would reserve a whole day to make the most of your hike.

    Access

    To get to the Hiraoka, from Umeda Station take a train on the Midosuji line and get off at Namba. From Namba, swap to the Kintetsu-Nara Line and take the Sub Semi-Express toward Yamato-Saidaiji. Get off the train at Hiraoka. An express train should take about 20 minutes or so. Please note that this is an unmanned station.

    First, a visit to the Hiraoka Jinja Shrine (枚岡神社)

    Leave Hiraoka Station and turn right. Head towards the railway crossing, cross over the railway tracks and be careful. Once over the railway tracks turn right and head up until you reach a Tori gate on your left. This Tori gate is called Ni-no-Torii Gate, second Shinto Shine arch of Hiraoka Jinja. Make your way up and follow the blue flags to reach Hiraoka Jinja Shrine and the Hayden Shrine Hall of worship. This is a centuries-old shrine reconstructed in 1826, with sweeping views of Osaka & spring plum blossoms. The shrine is known as one of the few power spots in Osaka. It hosts various festivals throughout the year, including traditional celebrations like the Setsubun Festival, where beans are thrown to ward off evil spirits, and events dedicated to the local harvest. Take a moment to admire its beauty and make a wish.

    Many temples and shrines throughout Japan burn incense. I recommend this Incense Gift Set with Low Smoke Incense and Ceramic Incense Holder with Brass Stand as a great gift for someone who loves Japan!

    The Hike

    After a visit to Hiraoka Jinja Shrine, make your way back down to begin the hike. Keep left to follow the road to the left of the shrine (north of the car park). Here you will walk along the road for a short section before reaching Uber Geike Pond. The pond looks unassuming – but it has an interesting story!

    The pond has been called Ubagaike since ancient times. It originates from a Legend of a Sad Old Woman Throwing Herself, which happened 600 years ago. The legend goes that every night the oil in the sacred lantern at Hiraoka Shrine ran out, and the fires would disappear one after another. It was discovered that an old woman who was struggling to make ends meet had been stealing and selling the oil. The person who found out felt sorry for her and released her. However, the rumours spread that the old woman threw herself into the pond, and no one in the village felt sorry for her, thinking that she had been punished by Myojin. It is said that pale flames appeared nearby and troubled the villagers. This story appears in many haiku and plays, including a short story by Ihara Saikaku, as Ubagaike no Gadai. It is also listed in Japanese and Chinese Sansai Zue and Kawachi Famous Places.

    From the (now interesting!) pond, continue walking left until you reach Kuragane Bridge. Pass over the short bridge, stopping to get food or a drink if you need one, and make a right turn. Turning right will take you uphill along the road for a short section before arriving at a seating area on your right hand side when I went there were some cats residing in the seating area looking very chilled out and loved up! From here, you can either follow the road or you can follow the small stone paved steps up. Assuming you follow the road, be sure to watch out for cars. Continue uphill until you reach a bright red bridge on your right hand side – this is Toyoura Bridge – walk over the bridge and follow the steps to walk alongside the river and view the waterfall.

    Toyoura Bridge

    Wow, what a scenic and tranquil setting for a picnic. It felt like I had this entire place all to myself so if you’re looking for somewhere to escape alone or with your friends or family in Osaka, I definitely recommend this spot. It’s a lot less busy than Minoh Waterfall as well. You can even get close to the water so that you can dip your feet in. This spot has a truly magical and peaceful vibe to escape the city for a while to reset.

    View Rice Terraces

    You can then choose to hike further up the path to see Kenji Buddhist temple and the Caughey Togay Rice Terraces! If you would have told me that you can see rice terraces in Osaka, I wouldn’t have believed you. Japan has many stunning rice terraces known as “tanada” (棚田). If you decide to continue your hike further from the rice terraces, you can make your way around to the right following the hiking path.

    The Final Stretch to Tsutsuji Flowers Road

    Continuing your hike will come with a reward! it will lead you towards an observation deck known as Hiraoka Observatory. You will be met with absolutely breathtaking views from here. I won’t ruin the reward for you. A short walk further then leads you to the end of your hike – the beautiful Tsutsuju Flowers Road, which has a stunning natural display of flowers! This is a great place to end your hike and have a rest before making your way back down the route toward the train station.

    Make your way back down toward the train station and be sure to get the train back from Platform 2 toward Osaka. Alternatively Platform 1 will take you towards the popular deer spot – Nara!

    Top tips for the hike

    When I went on the hike in mid-march it was quite humid that day 23°, I don’t recommend hiking far in the height of summer when it will be too hot. There are signs for forest fires and snakes on your hike – so be sure to keep an eye out. I personally didn’t see any snakes. Here are my tips:

    • Make sure you bring your own food and drink
    • Wear a hat and cover your arms and legs because there’s quite a few midges and potentially mosquitoes.
    • Take photos of the route on your way around so you don’t get lost and have a reference point.
    • Be careful on the road and watch out for cars and bikes; though generally in Japan a lot of people seem to drive very respectfully.
    • People live on part of the route so make sure that you remain respectful don’t take photos of them.

    Be prepared for your hikes! Mont-bell is a very popular brand that most hikers wear in Japan.

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  • Kisen Alps Hike

    Kisen Alps Hike

    When you think of Osaka, hiking isn’t the first to spring to mind. Despite this, Osaka is great for hiking if you know where to go. If you’re seeking a hike just outside of the city, and within easy reach by train, the Kisen Alps are a hidden gem. The Kisen Alps are a series of rolling peaks located on the Osaka-Wakayama prefectural border. Despite their close proximity to the big city, the mountains are relatively unspoiled and completely natural, without a single cedar tree in sight.

    Access

    To get to the Kisen Apls, from Tennoji station (天王時駅) take a train on the JR Wakayama line and get off at Yamanakadani (山中渓駅). An express train should take about 45 minutes or so. Please note that this is an unmanned station.

    Level of difficulty: 2 out of 5 (elevation change ~200m). The duration of the hike can last between 4-6hrs and cover a distance of 12.3km.

    The Adventure Begins

    Go through the unmanned ticket gates, and turn right on the small paved road in front of the station. Turn right at the next street, where you’ll cross a small river and the railroad tracks. Follow the signs to Kisen Alps (記泉アルプス), turning left at the sign, and then right up a small dirt road. This road eventually becomes the trailhead, as you pass through a very funky entrance gate. The path climbs rather steeply at first, paralleling a large expressway. The traffic noise is pretty loud, but you’ll soon leave that all behind and enter a magical wonderland of beautiful flora. I have no idea why this area was spared of the post-war deforestation, but I’m so happy it was.

    As you hike, imagine how beautiful this country must’ve been hundreds of years ago, when every single forest looked just like this! Keep your eyes out for snakes and wild boar, as there are quite a few in this area. After about 30 minutes of climbing, you’ll reach the ridgeline and a trail junction. Head to the right for about 20 meters to reach a wonderful clearing with excellent views of Kansai airport and Osaka bay. Take some photos and head back to the junction.

    The Ridgeline and Unzenbou Peak

    The trail follows the entire mountain ridge, and your target is the high point called Unzenbou (雲仙峰). There’s a considerable amount of up and down between here and the top, but it’s not too difficult. There are lots of places to take breaks and enjoy the outstanding scenery. You should reach the peak in about 2 hours or so. Just below the top, you’ll come across a 3-way junction with beautiful bilingual signposts. Yep, you’ve officially entered Wakayama prefecture, where they seem to have more money in their budget for trail maintenance. Continue on to the top of Unzenbou. There’s not much of a view from here, so after taking a break continue down the other side. In about 10 minutes, you’ll come across yet another trail junction, with magnificent views of Wakayama city and the Pacific Ocean. Turn left at the junction and you’ll reach a well-maintained public park with lots of benches and a gazebo. This is a great place for a picnic or a nap on a pleasant day.

    The Final Stretch

    From here, trails split off in all directions, and you’ve got lots of options. I’d recommend following the signs to Kii station (紀伊駅). It should take about 90 minutes or so from the park to the station, and there are lots of different trails you have to take, so follow the signs carefully. Just before the trail dumps you out on a road, you’ll pass through a bamboo forest that is hauntingly beautiful at dusk. From Kii station, you can catch a JR train back to Tennoji.

    When to go

    This hike can be done year round, but I’ve been told that autumn is the best time to see the forests in all their glory. If you’re wondering where to hike around Osaka – put Kisen Alps on your list as one of the most scenic hikes in Osaka, Japan.

    Have you been on this hike? let me know how you found it in the comments!

  • Minoh Falls Hike: An Easy Day Trip from Osaka

    Minoh Falls Hike: An Easy Day Trip from Osaka

    Don’t go chasing waterfalls, or do! If you’re a person who craves being in nature like me, you’ll be pleased to find out that Minoh Park (also spelled Minoo or Mino) is an easy day-trip to escape the bustle of the city. Minoh Park is located just 30-minutes to the north of Osaka and is famous for its tranquil hiking trails and waterfalls.

    Minoh Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Japan. In spring, Minoh Park is an ideal location to view cherry blossoms, while autumn transforms the park into a canvas of warm hues, making it one of the Kansai region’s best spots for koyo (autumn leaf viewing).

    How to get to Minoh Falls

    To get to Minoh Falls, catch the Hankyu Takarazuka Line from Osaka to Ishibashi-handaimae Station, then transfer to the Hankyu Minoh Line to reach Minoh. This will bring you to Minoh Station (Mino-o) – the park’s entrance.

    From Mino-o Station, you can either choose to follow the hiking route, or catch the one-way sightseeing bus directly from the train station. The sightseeing bus will take you to Katsuoji-Temple first, so if you’d like to combine this with your trip to the falls this is a great option.

    Travel tip: If the sightseeing bus isn’t operating from Mino-o Station on the day that you visit, you could get the train to Minoh-kayano Station and catch a local bus up to Katsuoji Temple before walking down to see the falls. Or get a taxi!

    The Hiking Trail

    The hiking trail is located just a five-minute walk north of Mino-o Station. You will enter the park via a bridge across the River Minoh where you can then follow signage to get to the falls. Navigating the main route is super easy! The main signposted trail to Minoh Falls is a gentle 2.8-kilometer path that winds through a forest landscape and adjacent to the Minoh River. With a paved route and a gradual incline, it’s accessible for hikers of all levels, and suitable for those with pushchairs or wheelchairs. Yes – this is a hike that you can do easily with children. You’ll also be happy to know that there are also nine public toilets en route.

    Along the main route, you have the opportunity to stop by the peaceful Bhuddist temple – Ryuanji Temple. Ryuanji Temple is one of the most peaceful temples that I have visited so far in Osaka. You can also check out Minoh Park Insectarium and local shops selling the famous momiji tempura—crispy deep-fried maple leaves, a must-try snack. Be sure to have cash with you as some vendors only accept cash payment.

    After walking for around 45 minutes, you’ll arrive at Minoh Falls, the 33-meter cascade and prime photo spot. The beauty of the falls changes with the seasons: red and gold leaves in autumn, vibrant greens in summer, and a quietness in winter. Take a moment to soak in the scenery and snap a few photos—this is the perfect spot for a rest.

    Minoh Falls

    Travel tip: Visit early in the morning or on a weekday if you can to avoid crowds and enjoy the falls in peaceful solitude.

    On your route back down, be sure to dip your feet into the free foot bath located along the main walking route to/from the train station to soothe your achey feet.

    Climb to the observation deck

    There is an incredible view of Osaka which is signposted during your walk along the main path. The walk to the observation deck is not an easy walk up and you will need to climb a fair amount of stairs to get to it. I climbed to the deck after visiting the falls and I’m glad that I did. Check out the view below!

    View from the observation deck

    Travel tip: Climb to the viewing point after viewing the falls, if you do it before, your legs may be tired.

    Feeling adventurous?

    If you want to stray off the main hiking trail and delve further into the forest, there are a few options available to you. The two main options involve making your way north past the falls to the Visitor Centre before deciding to go either:

    • North to reach the Minoogawa Dam where you will be greeted with scenic views of the weir. If you head north, you could also extend your hike to include a visit to Katsuoji-temple. If you choose to do this, you will add an additional 45-minutes of walking uphill, but then the reward is that you can get a local bus back down from the temple directly to the train station!
    • South via forest paths to see Saigaharaike Pond. If you choose to enter the forest routes, keep an eye out for Japanese macaques and do not feed them; these curious monkeys sometimes make an appearance.

    Final thoughts

    Your day exploring Minoh Park can be as long as you want it to be. It is suitable for all ages and abilities. Minoh Park and Falls provides both a kid friendly, easy hike and an opportunity for a walking adventure through the forest. I highly recommend visiting for a day-trip, you can definitely visit Minoh Park and Falls in one-day. Happy hiking! Let me know what you get up to in the comments when you visit.

  • The Blue Pagoda in Nakayama-dera, Osaka: A Hike of Tranquility and Scenic Beauty

    The Blue Pagoda in Nakayama-dera, Osaka: A Hike of Tranquility and Scenic Beauty

    Nestled in the town of Takarazuka, just outside Osaka, Nakayama-dera Temple is an enchanting destination steeped in history and natural beauty. Among its many highlights is the striking blue pagoda, a rare architectural gem that captivates visitors with its vibrant color and serene surroundings.

    Unlike the traditional red pagodas commonly seen across Japan, this four-tiered structure is painted in a vibrant shade of blue, symbolising tranquility and enlightenment. The pagoda is nestled against a backdrop of lush greenery, which only enhances its striking appearance.

    The Temple’s Historical Significance

    Nakayama-dera is one of the 33 temples on the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist deity of mercy. Founded in the 6th century, the temple is a place of deep spiritual resonance and a popular site for prayers, particularly for safe childbirth. The grounds have beautiful gardens, ancient stone lanterns, and a variety of Buddhist statues (over 700 in one of the shrines!) but the blue pagoda stands out as a truly unique attraction.

    Getting to the Blue Pagoda

    Getting to the Blue Pagoda itself is easily accessible from Nakayama Station on the Hankyu Takarazuka Line. The station is just a 25-minute ride from Osaka’s city center, making it a convenient escape from the urban bustle. The distance from the station to the pagoda is then short, and doesn’t require much physical effort to reach, taking around 15-minutes to walk.

    The hike!

    The hike begins at the base of Nakayama-dera Temple (to the left of the blue pagoda). After about 45 minutes to an hour of hiking along the path, you’ll reach awe-inspiring views across Osaka to rewards your efforts.

    The view halfway along the hike

    As you ascend, the path meanders through a picturesque landscape of tall cedar trees and gentle streams. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all levels, though sturdy footwear is recommended due to occasional steep sections. Along the way, you’ll encounter small shrines and Jizo statues, offering opportunities to pause and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

    Visitors often remark on the profound sense of peace they feel here. The location is relatively secluded, ensuring that the site remains uncrowded, even during peak travel seasons. This makes it an ideal spot for quiet reflection or simply enjoying the surrounding beauty.

    Seasonal Highlights

    The hike is a year-round delight, but each season brings its own charm. In spring, cherry blossoms blanket the temple grounds in soft pink hues. Summer offers lush greenery, while autumn transforms the landscape with fiery red and orange foliage. Even winter has its appeal, as the pagoda looks particularly enchanting against a dusting of snow.

    Tips for Your Visit

    • Time Your Hike: Morning is the best time to start, as the trail is cooler and less crowded.
    • Bring Essentials: Pack water, snacks, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
    • Respect the Space: Nakayama-dera is an active temple, so be mindful of worshippers and maintain a respectful demeanor.
    • Explore the Area: After your hike, take time to explore the rest of Nakayama-dera or enjoy local delicacies in the nearby town of Takarazuka.

    Conclusion

    Hiking around, and seeing the blue pagoda, in Nakayama-dera is an opportunity to connect with Japan’s rich cultural heritage and the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual traveler, this serene escape near Osaka offers a perfect blend of adventure and mindfulness. Make it a part of your next trip, and let the vibrant blue pagoda leave an indelible mark on your travel memories.

    I went on the hike with a group that I found via the ‘meetup’ app! A photo of my group is below. I’ve also recorded a short youtube video for you to see some of the grounds near the temple: