Tonomine Highlands, Kamikawa, Japan
The Tonomine Highlands are well known in western Japan as the place to see wild Japanese pampas grass; it is also the place where the movie adaptation of author Haruki Murakami’s novel Norwegian Wood and the NHK historical drama Gunshi Kanbei were filmed. At approximately 900 meters above sea level, the Highlands boast about 90 hectares of silver pampas grass.
With each season the Highlands take on a new appearance, making them a delight for both tourists and photography lovers.
Spring is the season of the annual burning. The sight of the hillside aflame, the fire racing and swallowing up the grass, is incredible. Each year thousands of visitors watch the breathtaking fire show. To the locals, it is a necessary process to encourage the growth of the grass.
Fall sees the pampas grass at its best when the clumps are in full bloom swaying in the cool seasonal wind, and painting the hillside silver. This spectacle can be enjoyed until mid-November.
Epic Japan Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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