What to know
Mount Wakakusayama (若草山) is the grass-covered mountain behind Nara Park, situated between Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Shrine. Standing about 350 meters tall, it offers unobstructed views over Nara City. The mountain is open to climbers year-round except during winter, and a small entrance fee is charged.
The grassy slope is lined with cherry trees that typically bloom in early April. A steep trail along the left edge of the slope leads to a plateau halfway up, offering great city views. It takes about 15–20 minutes to reach the plateau, where many turn back. Continuing another 20–30 minutes brings you to the summit.
Every winter on the fourth Saturday of January, the slopes are set ablaze during the spectacular Wakakusa Yamayaki festival. The origins are unclear—one theory suggests a boundary dispute, another that fires were used to drive away wild boars. The burning is preceded by a short fireworks display.
The base of Wakakusayama is about a 10–15 minute walk from both Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha. It can also be reached on foot from Kintetsu Nara Station in about 35 minutes, or from JR Nara Station in about 50 minutes. Buses run from either station to Kasuga Taisha (250 yen).
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 17:00
- Closed
- Mid December to late March (the mountain is open from the 3rd Saturday of March through the 2nd Sunday of December)
- Admission
- 150 yen (~$0.96)
- English name
- Original name
- Mount Wakakusayama
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.