Who knew there was nature like this in Yokohama! This is a place where you can enjoy nature while hiking. There are rest areas and it's not too strenuous, but it's not particularly easy either. You can enjoy bird watching, etc. Although I like to watch insects. *Releasing or taking home any living creatures is generally prohibited.
September 24, 2025
Ofuna Station → Yokohama Cemetery BS → Cemetery Entrance →
Nature Observation Center → Firefly Wetlands →
Bush Warbler Meadow → Dogwood Valley →
Genji Firefly Valley → Nogiku Square →
Nagakura Entrance → Nagakuramachi BS → Ofuna Station
Starting from the 125-step staircase at the Cemetery Entrance, I stopped by the center to get a map.
I had long conversations with the staff and rangers, who taught me a lot.
I enjoy walking along waterfronts, so I mainly walked along the Dogwood Trail, seeing beautiful water surfaces everywhere.
On the mountain path through the bush warbler meadow, I took a fork in the road.
Is it a Japanese bush warbler? Or a Turtle dove? About ten (brown and plump) birds crossed the river one after another, carefully watching their movements, and I found them rather adorable.
While walking along the path along the source of the Itachi River, I came across a spot where the water's surface seemed oddly sparkling. I approached and took a photo, and the sunlight reflected in the water in mysterious specks of light.
The mountain path to Nogiku Square was quite steep from the middle, and I had to climb quite a few steps. I strolled around the square before turning back. At a fork in the staircase, it seemed to join the Rokkoku Pass hiking course, which connects to Sekiya Oku Observatory and Mt. Omaru. It was a route I'd never walked before. Heading home, I walked along the Itachi River again, heading for the Nagakura entrance.
Today, as soon as I entered the cemetery entrance, I felt a bit cold at first, but the lush forest was so cool. I had to take off and put away the towel I'd always worn around my neck, despite being drenched in sweat until last week.
This is a visit from Daimaruyama, the highest mountain in Yokohama City.
As the name suggests, it's spacious and full of nature.
The hiking course is also well maintained, but there were some areas that were impassable. I think it's perfect for bird watching and hiking.
Visitors can enjoy various activities such as bird watching, nature walks, guided tours, educational programs, and seasonal events focused on the local ecosystem.
Pets are generally not allowed within the sanctuary to protect the wildlife and preserve the natural environment.
The sanctuary strives to be accessible to all visitors. There are paved paths and facilities designed to accommodate people with disabilities, but some natural trails may be challenging.
Yokohama Nature Sanctuary is located in the suburban area of Yokohama City, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city environment.
