Takami Village
High in the mountains of Higashiyoshino, Takami Village, locally better known as Takami no Sato, is almost unknown to tourists. It is located just down the road from Takami Pass, which separates Nara and Mie Prefectures. Sitting about 650 meters above sea level near Mount Takami, this place is often called a “garden in the sky.” It wasn’t always a tourist spot; years ago, it was forest land. But when the forestry industry declined, the owners slowly transformed the mountain by planting weeping cherry trees. Today, that effort has turned into one of the most beautiful spring landscapes in Kansai.
Takami no Sato
Photo by: PIXTA/ オフィスKTakami no Sato is not a typical cherry blossom spot. This hillside features over 1,000 weeping cherry trees instead of the common Somei Yoshino trees. Because of the higher altitude, the blossoms bloom later than in other spots of Nara, usually peaking around mid-April.
At the top, “Millennium Hill” offers a wide, open view where layers of pink stretch across the mountains. On sunny days, the colors feel almost unreal, light pink blossoms mixed with yellow forsythia and white spirea. From up there, you can even see parts of the distant Yoshino Mountains.
Cherry Blossom Season
Photo by: PIXTA/ ごんちーThe park is only open during cherry blossom season, typically for a short window in April. A walking path winds uphill for about 600 meters, with plenty of steps along the way. If walking isn’t your thing, there’s a free shuttle and small carts inside the park that make getting around easier.
There are benches scattered here and there where you can sit and enjoy the view. Near the main area, you will find small food stalls and cafes, which serve a good selection of local snacks as well as udon and curry. Seasonal dishes such as sakura taiyaki and soft serve are popular, although they sometimes sell out quickly. As the village is far from the city, it seems peacefully isolated from the crowded Hanami spots.
Weekdays are calmer, while weekends can get busy, especially when the flowers are at their peak.
Mountainside Charm
Reaching Takami village takes a bit of effort, but that’s part of its charm. From the nearest station, a seasonal direct bus runs during the blossom period.
The village sits deep in the mountains, surrounded by forests of Yoshino cedar. Nature walks along the crystal clear Takami River will refresh your mind and soul.
A growing community of artists and craftsmen has settled here, drawn by the laid-back lifestyle. Some local artists run small studios where you can try simple pottery or watch traditional items being made. Or find craft classes at the Yoshino Cedar Wood Workshop or Shop.
