Like a Pink Carpet — Discover “Miyama Kirishima,” a Wild Flower Blooming in the Mountains of Kyushu
Miyama Kirishima is a type of wild azalea native to the highlands of Kyushu and is designated as a natural monument of Japan.
During its blooming season, entire mountainsides are covered in vibrant shades of pink, attracting many hikers and visitors from across Japan.
The best viewing season varies by location, but it generally runs from early May to mid-June. Blooming conditions may change depending on weather. Please check official websites for the latest information before visiting.
* Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
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Mt. Kyozuka (Hiji Town)
At 610 meters above sea level, Mt. Kyozuka is one of the lowest mountains where Miyama Kirishima blooms and is known as the earliest blooming spot in the prefecture.
While these flowers typically grow above 800 meters, they thrive here at a lower altitude.
The hiking trail from Yamada Spring is also said to have been partially traveled by Francis Xavier in the past.
Data
Location: Mt. Kyozuka (Hiji Town)
Contact: +81-977-72-4255 (Hiji Tourism Association)
Best season: Early May – Mid May
Mt. Haneyama (Kusu Town)
One of the largest Miyama Kirishima colonies in Kyushu.
You can drive up to the 8th station, and from the parking area, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the first viewing area, Yoshubudai.
Continuing further, about a one-hour hike leads to the “flower field,” where you can enjoy breathtaking pink landscapes.
Data
Location: Mt. Haneyama (Kusu Town)
Contact: +81-973-72-1313 (Kusu Tourism Association)
Best season: Mid May – Late May
Mt. Tsurumi (Beppu City)
Around 5,000 Miyama Kirishima plants bloom along the walking trails from the ropeway summit station to the peak.
The ropeway makes it easily accessible even for those who are not experienced hikers.
The Beppu Ropeway official website provides regular bloom updates during the season.
Data
Location: Mt. Tsurumi (Beppu City)
Contact: +81-977-22-2278 (Beppu Ropeway)
Best season: Mid May – Early June
Kuju Mountain Range
The Kuju Mountains are the most iconic location in Oita for Miyama Kirishima.
The slopes of the mountains are covered with vivid pink blossoms, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding greenery.
The view from Mt. Hiji is especially spectacular, overlooking the wide grasslands of Bogatsuru below.
Data
Location: Kuju Mountains (Taketa City / Kokonoe Town)
Contact: +81-973-76-3150 (Kokonoe Tourism Division)
Best season: Late May – Mid June
Etiquette & Notes
The beautiful scenery of Miyama Kirishima exists thanks to a delicate natural environment.
To preserve this precious landscape for future generations, please follow these guidelines:
- Stay on designated trails
- Do not step on or pick flowers
- Take all trash with you
- Be considerate of others, especially during busy periods
For only a short time each year, the mountains of Kyushu turn into a sea of pink.
The blooming of Miyama Kirishima offers a unique opportunity to experience the power of nature and the beauty of the changing seasons.
Don’t miss the chance to witness this special moment in the mountains of Kyushu.
