Are you an autumn lover or do you look forward to spring more? Both bring stunning views and comfortable weather, and gives everyone a sense of anticipation and excitement.
In Japan, you can experience both at the same time! I was stunned to learn about Obara from a friend (thank God for kind friends who share information), where Sakuras bloom in both spring and autumn!🌸🍁 How awesome is that?
Obara can be found in Toyota city, Aichi, Japan (near Nagoya) and yes, you guessed it right, the name Toyota came from the famous car company from which it was named (former Koromo city).
The place is not as accessible to tourists compared to other destinations, but it’s worth the ride, and the area is quite big to explore!
When to go?
This is the most important information when it comes to seasonal sightseeing. Most websites say it’s best from mid-November to early December, which is actually quite true. The photos here were taken on November 18, 2018, and this year it was quite hot and until December 20 autumn foliage can still be seen! So for example if it became cold early on the year you are coming, the Sakura might already be almost finished on the same date.
How to go?
(From Tokyo)
Tokyo Station
🚆 by Tokaido Shinkansen (Nozomi: 1 hr 40mins, not available for JR pass, Hikari: 2 hours plus Kodoma: 2 hrs 40 mins)
⬇️
Nagoya Station
🚊by JR Chuo Line Local bound for Tajimi
(approx. 7 min)
⬇️
Tsurumai Station
🚊by Nagoya City Subway Tsurumai Line bound for Toyotashi
⬇️
Toyotashi Station
(Nagoya City Subway Tsurumai Line will become the Meitetsu Toyota Line from Akaike Station, approx 40 min)
⬇️
Toyotashi Station
🚌 Toyota Oiden bus on the Obara-Toyota Line bound for Kaminigi (approx. 1 hr)
⬇️
Obara Ookusa bus stop
From Osaka:
Same, except that:
Tokyo Station
🚆 by Tokaido Shinkansen (Nozomi: 50mins, not available for JR pass, Hikari, Kodoma: 55 to 70 mins)
⬇️
Nagoya Station