Mount Wakakusa, also known as Mount Mikasa, is a 342-metre-high hill located to the east of Nara Park in the city of Nara, Nara Prefecture, Japan. The mountain's name literally means "young grass". The mountain is closed from December 12th to March 17th and cannot be accessed.
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Mount Wakakusa – A Scenic and Refreshing Hike in Nara Park
Mount Wakakusa is a highly recommended spot within Nara Park. The entire hill is covered with lush green grass, offering a serene and picturesque landscape.
Although the mountain stands at 342 meters above sea level, my step-counting app showed an elevation gain equivalent to climbing 48 floors, which likely reflects the actual ascent from the base to the summit.
There are two common hiking trails leading up the mountain. Both are well-maintained and easy to follow, with smooth paths and no major difficulty. For someone with moderate fitness, it takes about 40 to 60 minutes to reach the top without rushing.
From the summit, you can enjoy a stunning bird’s-eye view of Nara City — definitely worth the effort!
Mount Wakakusa is only about a 5–10 minute walk from Tōdai-ji Temple, making it very convenient to visit both in...
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if you're in a mood for a small hike then this is an ideal spot. Accessible even by walking from Kintetsu Nara. Great view of the city from the top and many deers to play with everywhere on the hill. The hike was reasonably ok for an average fit person. Although I did see some people struggle to climb to the summit during the summer heat (was 37C on that day)! In good weather the climb would have been much easier. Regarding the opening hours, I believe entry closes at 5pm but you don't have to get off the hill by then. You can enjoy the night view from top and when you come down you can head to the central exit where you can go out via a one way...
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One of the most beautiful hills I've seen in the Kansai region. The path from Nara is a bit steep with a lot of stairs, but it's definitely worth it. After you enjoy a spectacular view from to the top, you can stay on the path and continue to Mt. Kasuga Primeval Forest and admire Uguisu Waterfall and then follow the path even further to walk down around the hill, see Kasugayama Stone Cavern Buddhas, an abandoned temple and then get back to Nara from the south entrance and visit Shiga Naoya's Old Residence and Ukimido. If you start and end this wonderful trip on Nara train station, it fills you...
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