A mountainside dyed in beauty

As Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms meet the end of their season, Mrs. Farrer's rhododendrons dye the mountainside in gorgeous colors from early to mid-April at Kosema Ontake Jinja Shrine.

The path to the shrine was once grown over and barely recognizable, but in 2003 those watching over the shrine cut down trees to make a new Shikoku pilgrimage route where pilgrims can walk around 88 religious relics. After clearing the area, native Mrs. Farrer's rhododendrons naturally began to flourish. Oddly enough, when more plants were added, none of them took root even when replanted.
Mrs. Farrer's rhododendrons are so plentiful along the mountain slope that they nearly bury a stone monument to the Kobo Ontake-san religion. The trees are even designated a precious species by the city of Toyota.

On the second Sunday of January each year, the Kosema Ontake-san Firewalking event takes place during the Fudo Myo-o Festival. Pilgrims light a fire before walking over the burning charcoal to gain a year of health and other divine blessings.

Scenes from 2026

Photos from Fri, Apr 3, 2026
• 60–70% in bloom
• In peak condition

Basic Information

Address	〒471-0801 Ohikage, Kosema-cho, Toyota-shi, Aichi
Parking	Available
Restrooms	Available
Directions by car	Approx. 10 min. from Toyota-Matsudaira Interchange or Kuragaike Smart Interchange.