When it comes to nature in Japan, Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms come first to mind! In fact, many foreigners visit Japan every year just to catch a glimpse of them.
Indeed, there is a beauty that can be perceived just by looking at a picture or a photograph. However, such nature can be found anywhere. Why are only Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms considered to be so special...?
In this article, we will explore the secrets of these two symbolic natural beauties, Mount Fuji and Sakura.
Mount Fuji
Mt. Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan at 3,776 meters above sea level. Since it occupies both Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures, there are often disputes between the two prefectures as to which viewpoint is considered the "front" of Mount Fuji.
Since its registration as a World Heritage site in 2013, its worldwide reputation has skyrocketed! It is so popular that it attracts 30 million tourists a year from Japan and abroad.
The Diverse Views of Mount Fuji
The greatest appeal of Mt. Fuji is the variety of views it offers. It appears completely different depending on the season, time of day, and the angle from which you see it.
For example, during the very short period between the end of summer and the beginning of autumn, you can see a red Mt. Fuji. It seems to reflect red light when the surrounding air and clouds are in a perfect mix.
Also, twice a day, at both sunrise and sunset, the sun lights up the summit of Mt. Fuji. This is called "Diamond Fuji," and it is a genuine spectacle of nature's creation!
The Best Locations to View Mount Fuji
Although beautiful views of Mt. Fuji can be enjoyed from anywhere, of course, there are typical locations with spectacular views.
The most famous is the area around the Fuji Five Lakes in Yamanashi Prefecture. Mt. Fuji floating on the surface of the lakes, the "Upside-Down Fuji," is well worth a visit! Check out the reverse side of a Japanese banknote. You can see Mt. Fuji depicted there.
Also, the view from Arakurayama Sengen Park in Yamanashi Prefecture is a must-see for any die-hard fan of Japan! It is the perfect location to see the five-story pagoda, beautiful cherry blossoms, and Mt. Fuji. The moment you see it, you will be speechless.
Climb Mt. Fuji at Least Once in Your Lifetime
People who have climbed Mt. Fuji say in unison, "It will change your perspective on life!" There is something about the summit that makes you feel that you must climb it at least once. What kind of views await you, you will have to wait and see for yourself!
The climbing season is about two months from early July to early September. Most people aim to reach the summit at night in order to catch the sunrise, known as "goraikou."
There are mainly six routes to the peak! You can choose the one that best suits your fitness and goal. However, Mt. Fuji can be divided into 10 stages on the trail to the top, and the area after the 5th station is considered sacred. Therefore, the basic pattern is to get up to the 5th station by bus or car and officially start climbing the mountain from there.
Sakura
Japanese cherry blossoms are the most beautiful in spring. Bright, delicate, lovely... A single word cannot describe the fascinating colors and shapes of the cherry blossoms which have mesmerized many people and have had a tremendous impact on the culture and identity of Japan.
All Cherry Blossoms in Japan are Beautiful
Spring awaits us after a cold and harsh winter! Then comes the blooming of the cherry blossoms! It is no exaggeration to say that this is the moment that Japanese people look forward to the most all year round.
Cherry blossoms are in full bloom for only about a week in spring. However, the beauty of cherry blossoms is not only in their full bloom, but also in the buds that are about to blossom, the scattered petals on the ground, everything is beautiful, and their fleeting nature is also one of their charms.
In spring, Japanese people do "hanami" (cherry blossom viewing). Under the blossoming sakura trees, they dine, sing, and enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms with family and friends to the fullest.
The Three Great Trees of Japan
Among the many cherry trees, three are exceptional in their own right: known as the "Three Great Cherry Blossoms of Japan!" Designated as national natural monuments, they are also highly admired by the Japanese people.
Miharu Takizakura
"Miharu Takizakura" is a very popular tourist location that is visited by more than 300,000 tourists during the spring season. The 13.5-meter-high, 25-meter-wide tree is a sight to behold! The flowers hanging down from the branches stretching in all directions are reminiscent of a rushing waterfall. The tree has been restored many times, bringing forth many flowers each year.
Usuzumi Sakura in Neo Village
The "Usuzumi Sakura in Neo Village" is characterized by its mysterious petals that change color during a single season. They are pale pink before blooming, white when in full bloom, and faint black when falling. Some people are moved to tears when they see it standing strongly in front of them, supported by many pillars.
Yamataka Jindai Zakura
The "Yamataka Jindai zakura" is the world's oldest cherry tree. Surprisingly, the tree is 2,000 years old!
The giant tree, 10 meters tall and 12 meters in circumference, is brimming with vitality. Many people cannot help but clasp their hands together in worship when they see its divine appearance.
The Yamataka Jindai zakura with its long history has also been involved in an interesting project: in 2008, a seed of the Yamataka Jindai zakura was sent to outer space. After returning from space, a strange phenomenon occurred, the tree was grown and produced six petals, one more than usual.
Indescribable Beauty of Nature
In this article, we have introduced the appeal of Mt. Fuji and cherry blossoms from various angles. I hope you were able to understand them a little more than before.
But just one thing! You cannot get truly impressed from just words and pictures! Mt. Fuji is not far from Tokyo, and cherry blossom viewing spots are scattered all over the country. When you visit Japan, be sure to experience with your own eyes and heart the absolute best in natural beauty that Japan has to offer!
