Mount Yoshino

What it is

• A UNESCO World Heritage site and National Scenic Spot designated in 1924
• The northern starting point of the Omine Okugakichi pilgrimage route
• Site where Emperor Go-Daigo established the Southern Court in 1336
• A sacred area where cherry trees symbolize the deity Zao Gongen

What to see

• Approximately 30,000 cherry trees, primarily the Shiroyamazakura variety
• Kinpusen-ji Temple, a major religious site located on the mountain
• Four distinct areas known as Shimo, Naka, Kami, and Oku Senbon
• The location of Toyotomi Hideyoshi's famous 1594 cherry blossom party

Getting there

• Accessible via the Kintetsu Yoshino Line
• The Yoshino Ropeway provides transportation up the mountain slopes

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.