色もいろいろ
1 / 10

Mount Yaedake

4.4
·130 reviews·Motobu, Japan

Experience Okinawa's early cherry blossoms and stunning coastal views on Mount Yaedake. A scenic drive with playgrounds and natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late January - Mid-February

Peak cherry blossom season

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
色もいろいろ

Mount Yaedake

Best Time

Late January - Mid-February

Peak cherry blossom season

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Okinawa's early cherry blossoms and stunning coastal views on Mount Yaedake. A scenic drive with playgrounds and natural beauty.

4.4
(130 reviews)

"Witnessing the Ryukyu Kanhizakura bloom on Mount Yaedake is a magical, dreamlike experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Patience Needed

Parking is limited, especially at the top. Arrive early or on a weekday to snag a spot. Be prepared for narrow roads .

🌸 Sakura Season Crowds

Expect significant crowds during cherry blossom season. Visit on weekdays for a more serene experience .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ryukyu Kanhizakura Blossoms

Ryukyu Kanhizakura Blossoms

Throughout the mountain

Witness over 7,000 Ryukyu Kanhizakura trees painting the mountain in vibrant pink hues. A truly breathtaking spectacle!

Scenic Coastal Views

Scenic Coastal Views

Various viewpoints

Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the East China Sea and Okinawa's coastline from the mountain's vantage points.

Playgrounds and Parks

Playgrounds and Parks

Base of the mountain

Family-friendly areas with playgrounds offer a fun break for children amidst the natural beauty.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Sakura Season

Mount Yaedake is famous for its cherry blossoms, but they bloom early, typically late January to mid-February. Visit during this window for the best views, but be prepared for crowds. Weekdays are significantly less busy than weekends.Reddit

Navigating Narrow Roads & Parking

The roads up Mount Yaedake can be narrow, and parking, especially near the summit, is limited. Consider visiting on a weekday or arriving early to secure a spot. Be patient and drive cautiously.Reddit

Best Times

When
Late January - Mid-February
Why
Peak cherry blossom season
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays, early morning
Why
Avoid peak crowds
Crowd
Low
When
After the festival
Why
Peaceful exploration
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

1人ステイもるにんぐ🌱 サウナプール海景色最高すぎる🌱 #1人暮らしインテリア #沖縄ホテル #沖縄旅行 @ILUVIO Resort Motobu
@nnn.natsukii
137.8K likes • 1.9M views

🚗 Parking Patience Needed

Parking is limited, especially at the top. Arrive early or on a weekday to snag a spot. Be prepared for narrow roads.Reddit

🌸 Sakura Season Crowds

Expect significant crowds during cherry blossom season. Visit on weekdays for a more serene experience.Reddit

沖縄・本部町の隠れ家リゾート 「ILUVIO Resort Motobu」 🌿 詳しくはインスタのリールから詳細見て😊 #沖縄ヴィラ#高級ヴィラ#名護 #本部#北部
@aomaezato24
14K likes • 347K views
#sakeaday 158 with a visit to the base of Mount Yaedake in Motobu Cho, north of Nago in Okinawa’s mainland. The Awamori is Sangosho from @yamakawa_shuzo, established in 1946 by Mr. Munemichi Yamakawa who returned back to Japan after making some coin while producing soy sauce in Peru. His dream was to make 100 year old Awamori and the goal is held fast today by the current generation @koony.yamakaw...
elliotjfaber
113 likes • 3.3K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

If you plan to explore the hiking trails, wear appropriate footwear. Some paths can be uneven.Reddit

📸 Capture the Pink Hues

The cherry blossoms create a magical atmosphere, perfect for photography. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

Sakura (aka cherry blossoms) reach Okinawa two months before it reaches mainland Japan. Tag along on our trip to Mount Yaedake to see these beauties. 🌸🌸🌸
l_and_h
92 likes • 902 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Patience Needed

Parking is limited, especially at the top. Arrive early or on a weekday to snag a spot. Be prepared for narrow roads.Reddit

🌸 Sakura Season Crowds

Expect significant crowds during cherry blossom season. Visit on weekdays for a more serene experience.Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

If you plan to explore the hiking trails, wear appropriate footwear. Some paths can be uneven.Reddit

📸 Capture the Pink Hues

The cherry blossoms create a magical atmosphere, perfect for photography. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

🏍️ Motorbike Adventure

Riding a motorbike through the cherry blossom tunnels is a dreamlike experience. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(130 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mount Yaedake is celebrated for its stunning cherry blossoms, offering breathtaking coastal views and family-friendly amenities. Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and the unique early bloom of the Ryukyu Kanhizakura. However, be prepared for significant crowds and limited parking during peak season, and navigate the narrow roads with care.

"Mount Yae is a stunning spot to enjoy sakura, but it tends to get very crowded during the sakura season, especially around their sakura festival. If you prefer a more peaceful experience, consider visiting after the festival and on weekdays when the crowds thin out. The scenery is still breathtaking, and you’ll have more space to truly appreciate the beauty of the cherry blossoms. It’s a perfect spot for a serene and picturesque outing!"

Danielo Tanz

"Great place, especially during the Sakura season. The trees are everywhere.

Not a lot of parking around the upper part of the mountain and the roads are very narrow."

Anthony Schmitz

"These are photos that were taken in late January 2020.

The cherry blossom is a flower of many trees of genus Prunus. The most well-known species is the Japanese cherry, Prunus serrulata, which is commonly called "sakura". The typical lifespan of sakura chrysanthemums is 10-14 days. They bud, bloom, and wilt in this short span.

The sakura species in Mount Yae (and in Okinawa in general) is called Ryukyu Kanhizakura. At the place where we were, there were more than 7000 of Ryukyu Kanhizakura from the foot to the top."

Meng Fai Yip

What People Like

Spectacular cherry blossoms
Beautiful coastal views
Family-friendly playgrounds

What People Dislike

Very crowded during peak
Limited parking
Narrow mountain roads

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mount Yaedake is located in Motobu Town, northern Okinawa. Driving is the most convenient way to reach it. From Naha Airport, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the area.TikTok

Parking can be challenging, especially during peak cherry blossom season. There are parking areas available, but they fill up quickly. It's advisable to arrive early in the morning or on a weekday to secure a spot.Reddit

While direct bus routes to the summit are scarce, you can take a bus towards Motobu Town and then potentially arrange local transport or a taxi. However, a rental car offers the most flexibility for exploring Mount Yaedake and its surroundings.TikTok

Driving up the mountain allows you to stop at various viewpoints. For a more immersive experience, consider hiking some of the trails. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk around.Reddit

The main roads are paved, but some hiking trails might be uneven. The playgrounds at the base are generally accessible. Consider the terrain if you have mobility concerns.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no entrance fee to access Mount Yaedake itself. However, specific events or festivals held on the mountain might have associated costs for entry or activities.Reddit

Mount Yaedake is an outdoor natural attraction, so it doesn't have fixed opening and closing hours. You can visit at any time, but it's best to go during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment, especially if you plan to hike.Reddit

The cherry blossoms, specifically the Ryukyu Kanhizakura, typically bloom from late January to mid-February. This is the most popular time to visit, so expect larger crowds.InstagramReddit

Since there's no general entrance fee, advance booking isn't necessary for visiting the mountain. If there's a specific festival, check their official website for any ticketing information.

During peak cherry blossom season, there might be temporary restrictions on vehicle access to certain areas due to crowds and parking limitations. It's always good to check local advisories before your visit.

📸 📸 Photography

The winding roads lined with cherry blossoms offer stunning photo opportunities.Instagram Look for viewpoints that capture the coastal scenery alongside the pink blooms. The areas with over 7,000 Ryukyu Kanhizakura trees are particularly photogenic.Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon, during the 'golden hours,' provides the best natural light for photography. This also helps avoid the harshest midday sun and can offer fewer crowds.Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current local drone laws and any specific restrictions on Mount Yaedake before flying. Respect private property and other visitors.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive cherry blossom tunnels and coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or distant scenery. A tripod can help with low-light conditions.Instagram

The primary photographic draw is the cherry blossom season (late Jan-mid Feb). Outside of this, the lush greenery and coastal views offer year-round photographic potential.

🎫 🌳 Nature & Activities

There are several hiking paths on Mount Yaedake, ranging in difficulty. Some are more like walking paths, while others offer a more strenuous climb. Wear appropriate footwear if you plan to explore them.Reddit

During cherry blossom season, you'll see the Ryukyu Kanhizakura. Common rose butterflies are also frequently spotted among the blossoms.Reddit The area is rich in subtropical flora.

The Sakura Festival is a popular event held during the cherry blossom season, celebrating the blooming flowers. It often features local food stalls, performances, and a lively atmosphere, though it can be very crowded.Reddit

While not a major historical site, there are mentions of shrines and springs on the mountain. The area's natural beauty is the primary focus for most visitors.TikTok

Families can enjoy the playgrounds located at the base of the mountain. The scenic drives and short walks are also suitable for children, especially during the cherry blossom season.TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mount Yaedake offers a delightful experience for families. The playgrounds at the mountain's base are a major hit with children, providing a safe and fun environment to play.TikTok The scenic drives are also enjoyable, with opportunities to stop and admire the views. During cherry blossom season, the vibrant pink flowers are a visual treat for all ages.Instagram Remember to bring snacks and drinks, and consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds and make the experience more relaxed for everyone.

🚗 Road Trippers & Drivers

For those exploring Okinawa by car, Mount Yaedake is a must-visit. The drive itself offers beautiful coastal scenery.TikTok Be prepared for narrow, winding roads as you ascend, and factor in extra time for potential traffic and parking challenges, especially during peak season.Reddit Renting a compact car can make navigating these roads easier. The drive is part of the adventure, leading to rewarding viewpoints and the stunning cherry blossoms.

🚴 Cyclists and Hikers

Mount Yaedake presents a significant challenge and reward for cyclists and hikers. The hill climb is substantial, with some cyclists tackling over 170km and 1,400m of elevation gain.Instagram The roads can be steep, so ensure you have adequate fitness and gear. For hikers, there are various trails to explore, offering different levels of difficulty. Always wear appropriate footwear and carry water, especially if you plan to venture onto less-maintained paths.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Ryukyu Kanhizakura

Mount Yaedake is renowned for its Ryukyu Kanhizakura, a unique species of cherry blossom that blooms earlier than those on mainland Japan, typically from late January to mid-February.Instagram This makes it a highly sought-after destination for early spring flower viewing. The sheer number of these trees, estimated at over 7,000, creates a breathtaking spectacle of vibrant pink that blankets the mountainside.Reddit The lifespan of these blossoms is relatively short, usually 10-14 days, so timing your visit is crucial to witness their full glory.Reddit

Experiencing the cherry blossoms on Mount Yaedake is often described as magical and dreamlike. Visitors enjoy driving or riding through tunnels of pink petals, creating unforgettable memories.Instagram The visual impact is immense, with the delicate flowers contrasting beautifully with the subtropical landscape of Okinawa. It's a prime example of nature's fleeting beauty, encouraging visitors to savor the moment.Instagram

Navigating Mount Yaedake: Roads, Parking, and Views

The journey up Mount Yaedake involves navigating narrow, winding roads. While these roads offer scenic drives, they can be challenging, especially for larger vehicles or during peak times. Parking is a significant consideration; spaces are limited, particularly near the summit, and can fill up very quickly during the popular cherry blossom season.Reddit Many visitors opt to arrive early in the morning or visit on weekdays to avoid the most intense crowds and secure a parking spot.Reddit

Despite the logistical challenges, the views from Mount Yaedake are a major draw. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with stunning coastal vistas of the East China Sea and the surrounding Okinawan landscape.TikTok These panoramic viewpoints offer a perfect backdrop for photos and a moment of tranquility. The combination of the vibrant cherry blossoms and the expansive sea views creates a unique and memorable experience for all visitors.Instagram

Family Fun and Relaxation

Mount Yaedake isn't just for nature enthusiasts; it also offers amenities for families. At the base of the mountain, you'll find playgrounds that provide a fun and safe space for children to enjoy themselves amidst the natural surroundings.TikTok This allows parents to relax and take in the scenery while the kids burn off some energy.

Beyond the playgrounds, the generally accessible roads and scenic spots make it a pleasant outing for families. The visual appeal of the cherry blossoms can captivate younger visitors, and the opportunity for short, easy walks adds to the family-friendly nature of the destination. It's a place where both adults and children can find enjoyment and create lasting memories.TikTok

You may also like