Shimo Senbon Observatory

Overview

Shimo Senbon Observatory is known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in Yoshino Mountain, located at an altitude of approximately 230m to 350m. From the observatory, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the cherry blossoms stretching out below. Especially during cherry blossom season, the profusion of blossoms is breathtakingly beautiful, and you can even see the World Heritage site, Kinpusen-ji Temple's Zao-do Hall, in the distance. Yoshino Mountain has long been known as a famous cherry blossom spot, and as the phrase "ichimoku senbon" (one glance, a thousand cherry trees) suggests, the entire mountain is covered in a magnificent display of cherry blossoms. Shimo Senbon Observatory is one of the best places to witness this stunning spectacle. Also, about a 15-minute walk from Shimo Senbon Observatory is Kinpusen-ji Temple's Zao-do Hall, the symbol of Yoshino Mountain. Zao-do Hall is a nationally designated treasure, and its history and architectural style are also highlights. Kinpusen-ji Temple is said to have been founded by Gyoki during the Nara period and later revived by Kobo Daishi (Kukai) during the Heian period. Zao-do Hall is the main hall of Kinpusen-ji Temple, a massive structure approximately 25 meters high, with a width of about 24 meters and a depth of about 18 meters. Inside the hall, you'll find many Buddhist statues and paintings, including a wooden seated statue of Zao Gongen. There are many other attractions around Shimo Senbon Observatory, such as the Nanakuri-zaka slope and the Yoshino Mountain Ropeway. Nanakuri-zaka is a steep slope that runs from the Shimo Senbon area to the Naka Senbon area. Cherry trees line the slope, creating a beautiful scene with blossoms in full bloom during spring. The Yoshino Mountain Ropeway connects the Shimo Senbon and Kami Senbon areas. From the ropeway, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Yoshino Mountain, offering magnificent scenery. You can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the year, with cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall. Shimo Senbon Observatory is a must-visit when exploring Yoshino Mountain.