
Azalea Fields
nature
湯の丸高原 (レンゲツツジ群落)
In late June, the fields east of Mount Yunomaru turn a vivid scarlet as an expanse of some 600,000 Japanese azalea blossoms burst into bloom.
In late June, around 600,000 Japanese azalea plants on the slopes east of Mount Yunomaru turn a vivid scarlet. Designated a Natural Monument in 1956, the fields owe their density to centuries of livestock grazing: cattle and horses consumed competing vegetation but left the azaleas, which are toxic to them. A local legend offers a different explanation, saying the blossoms grew from the blood of two young lovers from rival villages who leapt from Jizo Peak rather than be separated. The site sits at high altitude and features color variation unusual for such a concentrated planting.
Wash thoroughly at the shower stations before entering the bath. This is non-negotiable etiquette. Bring a small towel but keep it out of the water.
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