What Is Miyamakirishima?
Miyamakirishima (深山霧島) is a species of rhododendron (Ericaceae family) found growing on high mountains across Kyushu. It also holds a special place in the region — it is designated as the city flower of Kirishima City and the prefectural flower of Kagoshima Prefecture.
Every year from mid-May through early June, these vivid reddish-purple blossoms paint the slopes of the Kirishima mountains, drawing large numbers of hikers and visitors to the area.
Where to See Miyamakirishima
The flowers can be spotted around Takachiho Peak (高千穂峰), famous for its connection to the legend of Tenson Kōrin (the descent of the divine grandchild), as well as around Mt. Karakuni (韓国岳), the highest summit in the Kirishima range. Depending on the location, it is possible to enjoy the blooms without actually climbing — though popular spots can become very crowded depending on the weather and bloom conditions, so arriving with plenty of extra time is recommended.
Onami-ike (Lake Onami)
Current Bloom Status
The recent bloom conditions (as of May 13) are as follows. For the latest updates, check the Kirishima City official website.
| Location | Status (as of May 13) | Typical Peak Season |
|---|---|---|
| Takachiho-kawara (Shika-ga-hara) | Starting to bloom | Late May |
| Ohachi Slope / Takachiho Peak | Starting to bloom | Late May |
| Nakadake Mid-slope Trail | 50% in bloom | Mid to late May |
| Mt. Karakuni | Starting to bloom | Early June |
| Ebino Plateau Tsutsuji-ga-oka | Starting to bloom | Late May to early June |
For up-to-date bloom reports, visit the Kirishima City website:
https://www.city-kirishima.jp/kirikan/kanko/shizen/2023miyama.html
Last Year's Blooms
Takachiho-kawara (Shika-ga-hara) — May 28 (last year)
Ebino Plateau Tsutsuji-ga-oka — June 6 (last year)
Mt. Karakuni — June 6 (last year)
Getting There by Public Transport
Kirishima City operates the Kirishima Mountain Range Loop Bus daily, connecting Marue (Kirishima Onsen area) with the main trailheads in the Kirishima mountains — including Ebino Plateau, Onami-ike Trailhead, and Takachiho-kawara. This bus is a convenient option for anyone heading into the mountains.
In addition, the Kirishima Jingu Access Bus runs non-stop between Kagoshima Airport and Marue, Kirishima Jingu Shrine, and Kirishima Jingu Station. By combining the two bus routes, it is possible to make a day trip from Kagoshima Airport to the mountains entirely by bus.
