NARA’S NATURAL TREASURES

✤ MENFUDO LIMESTONE CAVE

Menfudo Limestone Cave is located in Tenkawa Village, a small town at the foot of Mount Omine. High above Dorogawa town, this dome-shaped limestone cave complex has stalactites and stalagmites which are illuminated by coloured lights. The path is a little slippery and has low overhangs, so rental helmets are recommended. It is accessed by an unusual monorail train shaped like a wooden log. The observatory near the cave entrance has sweeping views and a rest area with public facilities for visitors who can also buy hot and cold refreshments.

✤ MOUNT YOSHINO

Mount Yoshino has been one of Japan's most famous cherry blossom viewing spots for many centuries. It is said that the first trees were planted along its slopes more than 1300 years ago, and today the mountain is covered by approximately 30,000 cherry trees of many different varieties, the most distinctive of them being the Yamazakura variety. Visitors can climb the mountain and pass Yoshino's tourist-filled town with various temples and shrines.

✤ MITARAI VALLEY

The hiking trails, dramatic waterfalls and a suspension bridge make the Mitarai valley one of the most spectacular scenic spots in the hot spring town of Dorogawa Onsen area. Visitors flock to see the red autumn foliage, contrasting with the emerald green river. Since it is tucked deep in the mountains, it takes a little under three hours from Nara city and is best combined with an overnight stay in the nearby town. In spring and autumn, visitors can enjoy breathtaking hikes along the scenic trails, and in summer, plan a picnic by pristine, clear pools, and even take a dip in them to cool off.

✤ SONI HIGHLAND

Soni Highland is an ideal day trip from Nara city, with easy hiking paths and amazing views. It is a treasured paradise and is recommended to experience the natural beauty of this region, especially in autumn, with its gleaming goldcoloured pampas grass fields that stretch up to Mount Kuroso. From mid-September to November, the pampas grass fields of Soni Highland are illuminated and give the effect of lantern lights as the sun is about to set. It is an ethereal sight and experience. In summer, fireflies can be seen along the Soni River.