Nichirin Temple, just outside Yamaga, is known as one of Kumamoto's top spots for azalea viewing. Though this year's azaleas bloomed uncharacteristically early, I still managed to catch some blooms on the hillside during my visit in late April. The hill is covered in over 1000 azaleas of the Kurume variety, a type quite popular in Kyushu. There is a paved path that runs to the top of the park, where you can gaze out over the mountains of northern Kumamoto Prefecture. There are benches both at the top and en route and plenty of places to spread a picnic blanket. For drivers, the temple is well-marked and is a short drive north (perhaps 5-7 minutes) of Yamaga's main bridge over the river (on Route 3).
- 1 min read
Nichirin Temple Azalea Park
Hillsides covered in Kyushu azaleas
By Mandy Bartok
Community writer
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Masayoshi Hirose
8 years ago
A colorful azalea is very beautiful! It's very nice and puts me at ease.
Thank you, Masayoshi-san! Unfortunately the azaleas were no longer "mankai" but they were still beautiful.
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