Enjoy Nara’s cherry blossoms on Kintetsu sightseeing train : Aoniyoshi & Blue Symphony
Jan 20, 2025
Enjoy a picturesque view of Nara’s beautiful cherry blossoms on Kintetsu sightseeing train: Aoniyoshi and Blue Symphony
Bask in a shower of cherry blossoms: A romantic spring journey on the Kintetsu sightseeing train.
As spring arrives cherry blossoms in Nara bloom like pink clouds, swaying gently in the breeze. The Kintetsu’s two sightseeing trains – Aoniyoshi and Blue Symphony, not only provide a comfortable ride for passengers but also connect Nara’s most famous cherry blossom viewing spots. Get ready for an unforgettable cherry blossom journey.
Now… Let’s see all the beauty of Nara’s cherry blossoms on Kintetsu: Aoniyoshi Bluea and Symphony together!
Aoniyoshi: The elegant train weaving through a tunnel of pink cherry blossoms
Starting from April 29, 2022, the sightseeing limited express “AONIYOSHI” connecting Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara is the newest addition to the Kintetsu railway. With four cars, the train is wrapped in deep purple and features large panoramic windows for sightseeing. The stunning views of Japan’s beautiful landscapes outside the windows will leave you in awe.
The unique train design and service
The sightseeing limited express “AONIYOSHI” draws inspiration from classical poetry related to the ancient city of Nara, echoing its theme of “the beauty of Nara’s history.” The main colour and design of the train exude a classical and noble air, giving it a luxurious feel.
The train seats are luxurious, with options for twin seats and salon seats for three to four people, catering to various passenger needs.
The train’s library and bar featuring Nara Prefecture’s specialities are also one of the unique features, enhancing passengers’ experience to the next level.
Railway Network
Source: official website of AONIYOSHI
The train departs from “Osaka-Namba Station” and “Kyoto Station” with “Kintetsu-Nara Station” as its final destination. Along the way, the train will pass through “Osaka Uehommachi Station,” “Tsuruhashi Station,” “Ikoma Station,” “Gakuenmae Station,” “Yamato-Saidaiji Station,” and “Kintetsu Tambabashi Station.”
Please note that some stations may be for train passing only without stopping. Specific stops and schedules may be subject to adjustments. It is advisable to check the latest timetable and station information before your departure to ensure a smooth journey.
Fare
| Osaka-Namba↔Kyoto | Osaka-Namba↔Kintetsu-Nara | Kintetsu-Nara↔Kyoto | |
| When 2 people use Twin seats/ When 3 or 4 people use Salon seats |
2140 yen/adult
1080 yen/child |
1470 yen/adult
710 yen/child |
1490 yen/adult
750 yen/child |
| When 1 person uses Twin seats | 2650 yen/adult
1590 yen/child |
1780 yen/adult
1080 yen/child |
1860 yen/adult
1120 yen/child |
Video about Aoniyoshi: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28KB79V8BDY（ENG）
Cherry blossom viewing spots along the Aoniyoshi route
1. Nara Park: Enjoy cherry blossoms with deer companions
The closest Kintetsu station: “Kintetsu Nara Station” Best viewing time: Late March to early May
Pic: https://www.shutterstock.com/ja/image-photo/deer-sitting-nara-park-spring-japan-2438604675
Nara Park, located next to the UNESCO World Heritage sites, boasts around 1,700 cherry blossom trees of various varieties. Visitors can admire different types of cherry blossoms blooming at different times, starting with the Higan cherry in late March, followed by the Yama-zakura and Somei Yoshino cherries in full bloom, culminating with the prefectural flower Nara Yaebenishidare cherry marking the end of the cherry blossom season.
In Nara Park, you can also see adorable deer leisurely strolling under the cherry blossom trees, adding a unique charm to your cherry blossom viewing experience.
Noteworthy cherry blossom viewing spots in the park include the Ukimido Pavilion and Sagi Pond. Additionally, exploring the park allows you to appreciate both cultural heritage sites and cherry blossoms at Kofuku-ji Temple and Kasugataisha Shrine simultaneously.
More about Nara Park
Location: Kasuganocho and other areas, Nara, Nara,630-8501
Transportation: A 5-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station.
Website: https://www3.pref.nara.jp/park/
Map :
2. Ikoma-sanroku Park : A Hidden Cherry Blossom Gem
The closest Kintetsu station: “Ikoma Station” Best viewing time: Late March to early April
Ikoma-sanroku Park is located at the foot of Mount Ikoma and is one of the famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Nara Prefecture.
The park boasts around 300 cherry blossom trees, mainly concentrated around the “Sakura Plaza,” which features a large clock as a landmark. Climbing slightly up the hillside allows visitors to enjoy the charming views of Ikoma City. Every spring, the cherry blossoms bloom here, attracting numerous visitors to admire the flowers.
The prime viewing period for cherry blossoms typically ranges from late March to early April, although this may vary depending on weather conditions. Furthermore, the park offers various facilities such as hiking trails, camping grounds, large playground equipment, and experiential activities, making it a great place for families to spend quality time together.
During the cherry blossom season, you can bring a picnic mat, enjoy a picnic under the cherry blossom trees, and savour a leisurely time appreciating the blossoms.
More about Ikoma-sanroku Park
Location: 2088 Tawaraguchicho, Ikoma, Nara,630-0243
Transportation: Get off at Ikoma Station and transfer to a 15-minute bus ride to Ikoma-sanroku Park Station.
Website: https://ikoma36.jp/
Map :
3. Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park : Cherry blossoms blooming in the ancient capital
Closest Kintetsu station: “Yamato-Saidaiji Station” Best viewing time: Late March to early April
The Heijō Palace Site, the former imperial palace of Heijō-kyō during the Nara period (710-794 AD), is one of the renowned cherry blossom viewing spots in Nara City. In 1998, the Heijō Palace Site was designated as part of the “Cultural Assets of Ancient Nara” and inscribed on the World Heritage List.
With approximately 300 cherry blossom trees within its grounds, the palace site attracts numerous visitors to admire the cherry blossoms blooming from late March to early April each year.
Strolling through the ancient palace ruins at the Heijō Palace Site allows you to appreciate the picturesque blend of cherry blossoms and historic architecture. Especially noteworthy are the Somei Yoshino cherry trees near the Eastern State Halls Compound Remains and the mountain cherry blossoms on the east side of the Saekimon gate, enhancing the beauty of spring.
Moreover, the Heijō Palace Site Museum offers a wealth of information on the history and culture of the area, making it a worthwhile visit.
More about Heijō Palace Site Historical National Park
Location: 3 Chome-5-1 Nijoojiminami, Nara, 630-8012
Transportation: Get off at Yamato-Saidaiji Station and walk for 20 minutes.
Website: https://www.heijo-park.jp/en/
Map :
Blue Symphony: Encounter the millennium cherry blossom scenery in Yoshino
The “Blue Symphony” is a retro-style express sightseeing train operated by Kintetsu Railway, running between Osaka’s Abenobashi Station in the city centre and Yoshino Station in Nara Prefecture. The train started operating in autumn 2016, featuring a deep blue exterior and spacious traditional seats that complement the elegant environment, providing passengers with a new “high-quality adult journey.”
Refined and elegant experience offered by train
The train consists of three carriages. The first and third carriages are passenger seating areas, featuring spacious luxury seats in a 2+1 configuration and salon seats suitable for small groups (3-4 people), providing a comfortable ride experience.
The second carriage of the “Blue Symphony” is a lounge that can accommodate 20 passengers. In addition to a bar counter, the lounge also has a library with various albums and travel books related to Nara’s attractions.
Railway Network
The train runs from Osaka-Abenobashi Station in Osaka to its final destination at Yoshino Station in Nara. Along the journey, the train passes through stations such as Shakudo, Takadashi, Kashiharajingu-mae, Asuka, Tsubosakayama, Yoshinoguchi, Fukugami, Shimoichiguchi, Muda, Yamato-Kamiichi, and Yoshinojingu.
Fare
| Osaka-Abenobashi ↔Yoshino | |
| Adult | 1900 yen |
| Child | 960 yen |
Video about Blue Symphony: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gn_yUmGNTAQ （ENG）
Cherry blossom viewing spots along the Blue Symphony route
1. Mount Yoshino: Japan’s Cherry Blossom Paradise
Closest Kintetsu station: ” Yoshino Station” Best viewing time: Early to Late April
Pic: https://www.shutterstock.com/ja/image-photo/cherry-blossoms-yoshinoyama-world-heritage-site-2259364575
Mount Yoshino, located in Yoshino-cho, Nara Prefecture, is a renowned cherry blossom viewing spot in Japan with around 30,000 white mountain cherry trees. The entire mountain is covered in cherry blossoms every April, creating a spectacular sight.
The cherry blossom landscape on Mount Yoshino is divided into four main areas:
- Shimo Senbon: Located at the foot of Mount Yoshino near Yoshino Station. Cherry blossoms bloom earliest in this area, and visitors can enjoy the magnificent “Senbon Sakura” view from Nanakuzaka and Shimo Senbon Observatory.
- Naka Senbon: Situated on the middle slope of Mount Yoshino, this area is home to many temples and shrines like Yoshimizu Shrine and Nyoirin-ji Temple. From Yoshimizu Shrine, visitors can admire the breathtaking view known as “Ichimoku Senbon,” where a thousand cherry trees can be seen at a glance.
- Kami Senbon: Positioned at the higher elevation of the mountain, visitors can overlook the cherry blossom ocean of Mount Yoshino from the Hanayagura Observation Point. Cherry blossoms in this area bloom slightly later than Shimo Senbon and Naka Senbon, making it ideal for those seeking to avoid the crowds.
- Oku Senbon: Located in the deepest part of Mount Yoshino, the cherry blossoms in this area bloom latest. The environment is tranquil, making it ideal for visitors who enjoy hiking and nature.
Pic: https://www.shutterstock.com/ja/image-photo/Mount Yoshino-spring-723787957
Due to the cherry blossoms on Mount Yoshino blooming at different altitudes, visitors can enjoy the cherry blossom viewing pleasure for an extended period. Furthermore, the cherry blossoms on Mount Yoshino are closely tied to mountain worship, with many cherry trees planted as symbols of faith in deities such as Zao Gongen and Yakushi Nyorai. This cultural and historical significance enhances the cherry blossom landscape on Mount Yoshino.
More about Mount Yoshino
Location: Yoshinoyama, Yoshino, Yoshino District, Nara
Transportation: Get off at Yoshino Station, then transfer to the cable car to reach Yoshino Mountain Station.
Website: https://yoshinoyama-kankou.com/
Map :
2. Tsubosakadera Temple: Ancient Temple with Cherry Blossom Shadows
Closest Kintetsu station: ” Tsubosakayama Station” Best viewing time: Late March to Early April
Source: 壷阪寺 official web
Tsubosakadera Temple, located in Takatori-cho, Nara Prefecture, is the sixth of the Saigoku Sanjusan-sho (33 Kannon Pilgrimage) and is renowned for its Kannon faith in healing eye diseases. Situated on Tsubosaka Mountain, the temple overlooks the famous cherry blossom spot Yoshino Mountain to the south and offers stunning views of the Yamato Sanzan mountains and the Nara Basin to the north.
From late March to early April each year, around 300 cherry trees bloom within the grounds of Tsubosakadera Temple, surrounding the temple buildings and stone Buddhas, creating a magnificent sight. Among them, the 10-meter-long Great Buddha of Tsubosaka, adorned by cherry blossoms, looks as if wearing a pink robe, earning the nickname “Sakura Daibutsu” and becoming a popular spot for visitors to capture in photos.
Source: 壷阪寺 official web
During the cherry blossom season, Tsubosakadera Temple also hosts evening illumination events, lighting up the cherry blossoms and structures to create a dreamy night sakura scenery.
More about Tsubosakadera Temple
Location: 3 Tsubosaka, Takatori-cho, Takashiki-gun, Nara Prefecture 635-0102
Transportation: Get off at Tsubosakayama Station, then transfer to a Nara Kotsu bus for about 10 minutes to reach Tsubosakadera Temple.
Website：https://www.tsubosaka1300.or.jp/
Map:
3. Kashihara Jingu: Cherry Blossom Extravaganza in a Sacred Atmosphere
Closest Kintetsu station: ” Kashiharajingu-mae Station” Best viewing time: Late March to Early April
Source: 橿原神宮 official X
Kashihara Jingu, located in Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture, is one of the origins of Japan’s foundation myths. Every year from late March to mid-April, approximately 450 cherry trees bloom within the shrine grounds, including varieties such as Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura, and Shidarezakura, attracting numerous visitors to admire the blossoms.
One of the best spots for cherry blossom viewing is around Fukada Pond. The cherry blossoms by the pond create a charming reflection on the water, creating a serene and beautiful scenery. Additionally, the entrance to the Nagayama Inari Shrine pathway is also quite spectacular when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
During the cherry blossom season, Kashihara Jingu holds events like the Spring Grand Festival, allowing visitors to experience the charm of Japanese traditional culture while enjoying the cherry blossoms.
More about Kashihara Jingu
Location：934 Kume-cho, Kashihara, Nara 634-8550
Transportation: Get off at Kashihara Jingu-mae Station and walk for about 10 minutes.
Website：https://kashiharajingu.or.jp/
Map:
Reserve and purchase Kintetsu sightseeing train tickets
You can buy your train tickets online or at the Kintetsu station. Just a heads up, you can only reserve special express tickets for the sightseeing trains online. You’ll need to purchase the fare separately when you ride.
For online ticketing: the Kintetsu Railway’s online reservation and sales service
For ticket purchases at Kintetsu station windows:
If you prefer to purchase tickets in person, simply visit the ticket counters marked with the “特急” (limited express) symbol at Kintetsu stations.
Riding the Kintetsu sightseeing train to explore Nara’s cherry blossom spots not only offers a comfortable journey but also allows you to immerse yourself in Japan’s cherry blossom culture. Whether you choose Aoniyoshi or Blue Symphony, both can create unforgettable memories of springtime in Nara. With careful planning, I believe you will have a perfect cherry blossom viewing trip.
Read more articles
We share all interesting stories about Japan; travel guide, food, shopping, and many trivial stories. If you’re the one who loves Japan, this is your area.
Recommended Links