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Wakakusayama

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Wakakusayama

Wakakusayama (若草山), also known as Mount Wakakusa, is a 342-meter (1,122 ft) high mountain located in Nara, Japan, within the boundaries of Nara Park. It is most famous for its annual Wakakusa Yamayaki (若草山焼き) festival, a spectacular event where the grass on the mountainside is set ablaze.

The Wakakusa Yamayaki festival is held on the fourth Saturday of January every year and is a major highlight of Nara’s winter events. The origins of the festival are unclear, but it is believed to have begun in the 18th century. While some theories suggest it started as a way to resolve a land dispute between temples or to drive away wild boars, others propose it was a means to ward off evil spirits.

The festival commences with a large fireworks display, followed by a torchlight procession led by monks from nearby temples. The torches are used to ignite a large bonfire, and subsequently, the entire mountainside is set on fire in a controlled manner. The sight of the flames illuminating the night sky and the mountainside is a truly breathtaking spectacle, attracting numerous visitors from across Japan and the world.

Wakakusayama offers more than just the fiery festival. It is a popular destination for hiking and offers panoramic views of Nara City and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along well-maintained paths, taking in the scenery of Nara Park, Todaiji Temple with its Great Buddha Hall, Kasuga Grand Shrine, and the vast Nara Basin. The mountain itself has three distinct plateaus, each with different vantage points and attractions.

While the Wakakusa Yamayaki is the main event, the mountain is also a charming spot throughout the year, offering a peaceful retreat from the city and a chance to connect with nature.

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Getting there

By Train and Bus

  1. Take a Nara Kotsu bus from JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station
  2. Get off at “Todaiji Daibutsuden/Kasuga Taisha-mae” or “Kasuga Taisha Tabisando” bus stop
  3. Walk about 15 minutes from the bus stop

On Foot

  • About 30 minutes east from Kintetsu Nara Station
  • About 38 minutes east from JR Nara Station

By Car

  • About 30 minutes (9km) from Tenri Interchange on Nishi-Meihan Expressway
  • About 30 minutes (5km) from Horai Interchange on Daini-Hanna Toll Road

Important Notes

  • No dedicated parking at the foot of the mountain (use prefectural Daibutsu-mae/Takabatake parking)
  • New Wakakusa Mountain Driveway (paid) available to the summit
  • Public transportation recommended during busy periods
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