Wakakusayama, also known as Mount Wakakusa, is a grassy mountain offering panoramic views of Nara City and a unique cultural experience. Standing at approximately 342 meters tall, this mountain is a great spot for hiking and sightseeing. During the late winter months (usually January), Wakakusayama plays host to the spectacular Wakakusayama Yamayaki festival. This traditional event involves setting the dry grass on the mountainside ablaze in a controlled burn, creating a fiery spectacle visible from all over Nara. The tradition supposedly originated from a boundary dispute between two temples, Tōdai-ji and Kōfuku-ji in 1760; it is said after mediation failed, the entire mountain was set ablaze. If you're leaving at night during this festival, you can see the burn from the JR train. Throughout the year, visitors can explore the walking trails that wind up the mountainside, enjoying the verdant scenery and fresh air. A midway point offers a rest area and a breathtaking vista of the city below. For those seeking a challenge, the summit provides even more expansive views.