A Golden Spring Hike

#springitinerary Tucked away in the hills of Misugi-cho, Mie, the Mitsumata Colony feels like stumbling into a fairytale. Come spring, around mid-March to mid-April, the entire forest floor lights up with soft yellow mitsumata flowers, and it’s seriously stunning. The scent? Sweet and calming. The vibe? Pure zen. It’s a short hike up a gentle slope, and while the path gets a little steep, it's totally doable in comfy shoes. There’s even a little lookout point with amazing mountain views, perfect for that golden-hour photo op. It’s not tourist-packed either, which makes it feel like a secret spot just for you and a few other flower-chasers. Heads up: the parking lot can fill up fast on weekends, so go early. Bring snacks, breathe deep, and just enjoy the peace. If you’re in Japan during spring, this little hidden gem is absolutely worth the detour.