To the Superb View of Mt. Fuji and 150,000 Azaleas! "Amariyama Taxi 2026 ~Azalea Service~" Starts Operation from May 30

The Nirasaki City Tourism Association (Nirasaki City, Yamanashi Prefecture) will operate the "Amariyama Taxi 2026 ~Azalea Service~", a reservation-only shared taxi connecting JR Nirasaki Station and Mt. Amari, for a limited period from Saturday, May 30, 2026, to Sunday, June 14, 2026.

Mt. Amari, with an elevation of 1,731m, is one of the prefecture's leading scenic spots, where approximately 150,000 rhododendron japonicum (renge-tsutsuji) bloom in early summer, dyeing the mountainside crimson. Since it is accessible by car near the summit, and a 20-minute walk from the parking lot offers a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji, Mt. Yatsugatake, and the Kofu Basin, it is extremely popular among hikers and photography enthusiasts.

However, there has been a challenge in accessing the summit from the station for those without private cars due to the lack of public transportation. This project is a tourism support initiative aimed at allowing more people to experience Nirasaki's nature while minimizing environmental impact.

Three Key Points of "Amariyama Taxi 2026"

1. Overwhelming Cost Performance Normally, a one-way taxi ride from Nirasaki Station to Mt. Amari for one person costs approximately 8,000 yen. This service offers a comfortable ride for 3,000 yen one way, saving about 5,000 yen.

2. Flexible Schedule for Free Stay Time The taxi departs Nirasaki Station at 8:45 AM and returns from Mt. Amari at 3:00 PM. This allows ample time to enjoy a light hike with a leisurely lunch at the summit, or even serious trekking to Okua-Amariyama and Mt. Senjo.

3. Special Boarding Gift All users will receive an exclusive "Amariyama Original Sticker" or a "Tenugui" (Japanese hand towel) as a gift.

Operation Overview

Operating Period: Saturday, May 30, 2026, to Sunday, June 14, 2026

Operating Hours: One round trip per day (Outbound: 8:45 AM from Nirasaki Station / Return: 3:00 PM from Mt. Amari)

Main Stops: Sawara Pond, Nirasaki Omura Art Museum, Hakusan Onsen

Fare: 3,000 yen/person one way (tax and insurance included)

Capacity: Maximum 4 people per trip (minimum 1 person required)

Reservation Method: Advance reservation and credit card payment via the official website

・Reservation Start: 0:00 AM on Friday, May 1, 2026

・Deadline: Until 5:00 PM the day before boarding (no same-day boarding)

Click here for details: https://sites.google.com/view/amariyama-taxi

【Inquiries】 Nirasaki City Tourism Association (Yamanashi Prefectural Governor Registered Travel Agency No. Regional-344) Address: 1-1-1 Wakamiya, Nirasaki City, Yamanashi Prefecture Phone: 0551-22-1991

Introducing the Charms of Nirasaki City | Mt. Senjo Further west from Mt. Amari is Mt. Senjo, with an elevation of 2,139m. This mountain, counted as one of the 100 Famous Mountains of Yamanashi, offers the condensed thrill of ridge walking despite its high altitude of over 2,000m.

By using the "Amariyama Taxi 2026", hikers who rely on public transportation can easily access this hidden gem, which is normally difficult to reach. Along with the rhododendron japonicum of Mt. Amari, experience the "plain in the sky" one step further. Please come and experience the profound nature of Nirasaki.

Click here for details: https://www.nirasaki-kankou.jp/kankou_spot/sangaku_outdoor/sangaku_yamagoya/3995.html