Nagamine Park, with approximately 5,000 azaleas, is considered a symbolic place for “Yaita, the Land of Azaleas.” Along with apples allowed to fully ripen on the tree, an annual shrine festival and the water-level-dependent Oshiraji Waterfall, it gives Yaita a variety of travel highlights.

Nagamine Park and the City Library

Nagamine Park is about 700 meters north of JR Yaita Station and is popular with local residents. With its grassy area and playground equipment, it is suitable for family outings. Check the current condition of the facilities before visiting.

Yaita City Library also offers practical services: you can borrow and reserve materials and search the collection. Library services complement the nature and food-related aspects of a stay.

Apples and Local Cuisine

In the Yaita area, apples are allowed to fully ripen on the tree. They may still be available for purchase after the apple-picking season ends; if so, come early.

The Shunsen Yaita farm shop sells fresh agricultural products, especially vegetables, as well as processed goods. Tsutsujitei, a country restaurant at the Yaita roadside station, prepares homemade traditional dishes using local ingredients. The farm shop is therefore a place to buy produce, while Tsutsujitei serves prepared meals.

Festival at Kihata Shrine

The festival at Kihata Shrine in the Yaita area takes place every year on the second Sunday in October. A procession of more than 100 participants dressed as warriors makes its way through the surrounding area. If you plan your trip around this annual date, check the exact festival day in advance.

Oshiraji Waterfall: Changing Appearance and Trail

In the Yaita area, the water at Oshiraji Waterfall can appear especially blue under certain conditions. When the water level is low, the waterfall may disappear completely for a time. If you are making the trip to see its blue color, take its dependence on the water level into account. The festival date and the water level are different planning considerations: the festival’s second-Sunday-in-October schedule provides an annual calendar reference, though you can check the exact date. The blue appearance of Oshiraji Waterfall, by contrast, does not follow a set date and depends on the water level. A set travel date can help with planning for the festival, but it does not guarantee the waterfall will be blue.

From Yamanoeki, drive about seven minutes toward Nasushiobara to a parking lot; from there, walk about seven minutes along a mountain trail. Road access may be closed seasonally, so check local conditions before setting out. The drive and the subsequent walk to the waterfall take about 14 minutes in total.

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