Nakano Momiji Mountain: A Famous Autumn Foliage Spot
In autumn, the forests around Momiji Mountain are covered with maple leaves in brilliant shades of red and yellow. The colorful foliage creates a striking contrast with the dark green of surrounding evergreen trees, the rocky mountain landscape, and the flowing water of nearby streams and waterfalls.
The scenery can feel almost like a painting created by nature. Visitors can walk through the area while enjoying the changing colors and the peaceful atmosphere of the forest.
One of the most memorable views is the combination of Fudo Waterfall, autumn foliage, and the red bridge. The waterfall provides a sense of movement and sound, while the surrounding maple trees create a vivid seasonal backdrop.
For photographers, the area offers particularly attractive compositions throughout the day. Morning and afternoon light can emphasize different shades in the foliage, while the illuminated landscape after sunset creates an entirely different atmosphere.
The History and Legends of Nakano Shrine
Sakanoue no Tamuramaro and the Origins of Nakano Shrine
Nakano Shrine, located within the Momiji Mountain area, has a long history and is traditionally said to have been founded in 795 by Sakanoue no Tamuramaro during campaigns against the Emishi in northeastern Japan.
The shrine is dedicated to Yamato Takeru no Mikoto and has long been associated with prayers for peace, safety, and the well-being of the local community.
The shrine grounds have been regarded as a place of worship for centuries. Even today, Nakano Shrine remains an important cultural and spiritual site for local residents as well as visitors who come to admire the surrounding natural scenery.
Sugawa Masumi and the Beauty of Momiji Mountain
The beauty of Momiji Mountain was already being celebrated centuries ago. In 1798, the famous Edo-period traveler and writer Sugawara Masumi visited the area and recorded his impressions in his travel writings.
He praised the autumn foliage near Fudo Hall, comparing its beauty favorably with the famous autumn leaves of Tatsuta River in Nara. His account provides evidence that Momiji Mountain was already recognized as a remarkable scenic destination during the Edo period.
For today’s visitors, these historical records add another dimension to the landscape. The brilliant foliage seen today is part of a tradition of appreciating the beauty of this place that has continued for generations.
Maple Trees Introduced by the Lord of Hirosaki Domain
Another important chapter in the history of Momiji Mountain dates to 1802, when Tsugaru Yasuchika, lord of the Hirosaki Domain, visited the area.
Impressed by the beauty of the autumn leaves and Fudo Waterfall, he reportedly ordered approximately 100 varieties of maple seedlings from Kyoto and dedicated them to Nakano Fudoson. The following year, three of the seedlings were planted in the area.
Over time, the variety of maple trees spread throughout the mountain, helping to establish the spectacular autumn landscape that visitors enjoy today.
The area eventually became known as a scenic destination comparable to Arashiyama in Kyoto, earning the nickname “Little Arashiyama.”
Isabella Bird’s Visit
Momiji Mountain also attracted the attention of Isabella Bird, the British traveler and explorer who visited Japan in 1878.
In her famous travel account Unbeaten Tracks in Japan, she described the striking sight of countless maple trees turning deep crimson against a background of dark cedar forest. She considered the scenery impressive enough to justify traveling a considerable distance to see it.
She was also impressed by the traditional features of the shrine grounds, including stone lanterns, torii gates, and stone steps. Her account provides a valuable historical perspective on how foreign visitors viewed the landscape of northern Japan during the Meiji period.
Ancient Maple Trees and Giant Cedars
The grounds of Nakano Shrine contain several impressive old trees that are important natural heritage features of the area.
Some of the maple trees are believed to be more than 200 years old, while a giant cedar is estimated to be approximately 600 years old. These trees were designated as Natural Monuments of Kuroishi City in 1983.
A pair of fir trees, each more than 200 years old, has also been designated as a Natural Monument of Aomori Prefecture.
These ancient trees provide a sense of continuity between the modern tourist destination and the landscape experienced by people many generations ago. They are also an important reminder that the appeal of Momiji Mountain is not limited to seasonal foliage—the area is home to trees that have stood here for centuries.
Autumn Foliage and Nighttime Illuminations
Momiji Mountain is one of the most famous autumn foliage destinations in Aomori Prefecture, and its beauty changes dramatically between daytime and nighttime.
During the day, sunlight illuminates the maple leaves, making the red and yellow foliage appear to glow against the surrounding forest. The sound of Fudo Waterfall and the changing light create an especially atmospheric setting.
During the autumn season, special nighttime illuminations transform the area after dark. The maple trees are lit up against the night sky, creating a mysterious and romantic landscape.
The view of Fudo Waterfall and the colorful maple trees from the red bridge is particularly impressive after sunset. This illuminated autumn foliage, sometimes described as “night maple viewing,” offers an experience similar to the famous tradition of viewing illuminated cherry blossoms in spring.
For visitors staying in Kuroishi, experiencing both the daytime scenery and the nighttime illumination is an excellent way to appreciate the area’s changing atmosphere.
Tsugaru’s Three Sacred Fudo Sites
Nakano Shrine is also associated with the tradition of the Tsugaru Three Fudo Sites.
According to local tradition, in 610, a Buddhist monk named Enchi carved three statues of Fudo Myoo, the Buddhist deity known as Acala in Sanskrit, from a single tree. The three statues were then enshrined at three different temples or shrines, including Nakano Shrine.
A traditional belief holds that visiting all three of the sacred Fudo sites in a single day brings especially strong blessings. This tradition has attracted worshippers and travelers to the area for generations.
For international visitors, the story provides an interesting introduction to the religious traditions that have shaped the culture of northern Japan. The landscape around Nakano Shrine is not simply a beautiful forest—it is also a place where centuries of spiritual traditions remain visible.
A Place of Poetry and Literary Culture
Nakano Shrine is also known for its connection with senryu, a form of short Japanese verse similar in structure to haiku but traditionally focused more on human behavior, humor, and everyday life.
Numerous senryu monuments and smaller stone inscriptions can be found within the shrine grounds. They reflect the long history of senryu culture in Aomori Prefecture.
The area is particularly associated with organizations such as Michinoku Ginsha, founded during the Taisho period, and the Aomori Senryu Association, established during the Showa period.
As a result, visitors interested in literature and Japanese cultural history can discover another side of Momiji Mountain beyond its famous autumn foliage.
Enjoying Momiji Mountain Through the Seasons
Although Momiji Mountain is best known for its autumn colors, the landscape changes beautifully throughout the year.
Spring
In spring, fresh greenery begins to cover the mountain and surrounding forests. The quiet atmosphere and emerging leaves provide a refreshing contrast to the brilliant colors of autumn.
Summer
Summer brings dense green foliage and the sound of flowing water around the waterfalls and streams. The shaded forest provides a pleasant environment for walking and enjoying nature.
Autumn
Autumn is the main season for visitors. The maple trees turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, transforming the entire landscape. The combination of foliage, waterfalls, shrine architecture, and traditional bridges creates some of the most beautiful scenery in Kuroishi.
Winter
Winter brings snow to the mountains and shrine grounds, creating a quiet and solemn atmosphere. The landscape looks completely different from the colorful autumn scenery, with snow-covered trees and traditional structures providing a distinctly northern Japanese atmosphere.
Access to Momiji Mountain
Momiji Mountain is relatively easy to reach by car. From the Kuroishi Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway, the area can be reached in approximately 10 minutes by car.
Visitors using public transportation can take a Konan Bus from Konan Railway Kuroishi Station. Get off at either the Jinja-mae or Nakano Minamiguchi bus stop.
Because the area can become particularly busy during the peak autumn foliage season, visitors should allow extra time for transportation and walking when planning an autumn trip.
Discover the History and Beauty of Kuroishi’s “Little Arashiyama”
Momiji Mountain, also known as Nakano Momiji Mountain, is a remarkable destination where nature, history, religion, and literature come together.
The brilliant autumn foliage is undoubtedly its greatest attraction, but the story behind the landscape makes a visit even more meaningful. The maple trees planted under the direction of the Hirosaki Domain lord, the writings of Sugawara Masumi, and the observations of Isabella Bird all form part of the area’s long history as a place admired for its beauty.
Visitors can also discover ancient trees, Nakano Shrine, Fudo Waterfall, traditional religious traditions, and numerous senryu monuments while exploring the area.
Whether visited during the colorful autumn season or at another time of year, Momiji Mountain offers a peaceful opportunity to experience the natural and cultural heritage of Kuroishi and the Tsugaru region.
For travelers seeking spectacular autumn scenery combined with traditional Japanese culture, Nakano Momiji Mountain is a destination well worth adding to an Aomori itinerary.