This is a very special place for viewing Ajisai (hydrangea) blooms in Japan. 25,000 hydrangeas are planted in an expansive area on the western slope of Mount Ikoma overlooking Osaka. Blooming peaks between mid June and mid July. Having visited many famous temples for hydrangea viewing, I can say that this forest offers a very different type of experience seeing the blooms in a more wild and natural context. We appreciated our visit and little hike amongst the blooms above Osaka very much, and are very grateful to the caretakers of this special place for their hard work maintaining its beauty. Note 1: Amenities are generally not available. We would recommend that you come well provisioned with drinking water and perhaps a nice snack--there are picnic tables at a good viewpoint along the road above the hydrangea forest. Be mindful to carry out all waste with you. Note 2: We hiked into the forest via the Ikomasanjo cable car station and Amusement Park. Follow the signs to the parking lot and follow the Chipmunk ride down a long staircase to the parking area. Google maps indication for the trail head is relatively accurate, however the trail is not visibly marked and you will need to step over the car barrier and through some tall grass. The trail is for the first 200+/- meters is steep, muddy, and not for the unprepared--the rest of the walk is a paved road or stairs. Wear appropriate shoes, clothing, and prepare yourself for a nice forest walk.