Complete Guide to Hyogo-no-sen (Hyogo Prefecture) | Exploration of Hyogo Prefecture’s Highest Peak and Detailed Explanation of Climbing Routes
What is Hyogo-no-sen | Basic Data on Hyogo Prefecture’s Highest Peak
Hyogo-no-sen (氷ノ山) is a mountain standing at an elevation of 1,510m on the prefectural border between Yawata City in Hyogo Prefecture and Wakasa Town in Yazu County, Tottori Prefecture. As Hyogo Prefecture’s highest peak, it is known as the second-highest mountain in the Chugoku region, following Mt. Daisen in Tottori Prefecture (elevation 1,729m).
Also called “Suga-no-sen (須賀ノ山)” by another name, it serves as the main peak of Hyogo-no-sen Ushiroyama Nagi-yama Quasi-National Park and boasts a rich natural environment. It has been selected as one of Japan’s 200 Famous Mountains and Hyogo’s 50 Hometown Mountains, and is cherished by a wide range of climbers from enthusiasts to beginners.
Basic Information about Hyogo-no-sen
- Elevation: 1,510m
- Location: Yawata City, Hyogo Prefecture / Wakasa Town, Yazu County, Tottori Prefecture
- Mountain Range: Eastern end of the Chugoku Mountains
- Selections: Japan’s 200 Famous Mountains, Hyogo’s 50 Hometown Mountains
- Quasi-National Park: Hyogo-no-sen Ushiroyama Nagi-yama Quasi-National Park
- Benchmark: First-class triangulation point “Hyogo-no-sen”
A first-class triangulation point is installed on the summit, and its surroundings are enclosed by stone monuments carried up by participants in the 2019 “Hyogo-no-sen Autumn Foliage Climbing Festival.” Additionally, a triangular-roofed emergency shelter and a proper bio-toilet have been installed, creating an environment that takes climbers’ safety and comfort into consideration.
The Origin of the Name and History of Hyogo-no-sen
The name Hyogo-no-sen has an interesting origin. The most famous legend is that Amaterasu, the sun goddess, saw rime-covered trees gleaming in the morning sun on her way to worship at Ise Shrine and called it “Hie-no-yama” (Mountain of Rime). This mythology speaks to the fact that Hyogo-no-sen has been revered as a sacred mountain since ancient times.
Called “the Roof of Hyogo” or “the Main Peak of the Kansai Region,” Hyogo-no-sen has many myths and legends, and has been cherished by local people as the sacred site of the prefecture’s highest peak. The rime-covered trees in winter remain one of the representative landscapes of Hyogo-no-sen, offering a beautiful sight where you can experience the origin of its name.
The Excellent Natural Environment of Hyogo-no-sen | One of Western Japan’s Finest Ecosystems
Rich Primordial Beech Forests
The greatest charm of Hyogo-no-sen is the vast natural beech forest spreading across the mountainside above 800m elevation. Particularly in the Sengoku area above 900m elevation, primordial forests of beech and Japanese horse chestnut trees remain, boasting one of the largest scales in Western Japan.
A beech community has developed near the summit, and in autumn, the golden fall foliage captivates climbers. This beech forest maintains one of the top-class natural environments in the Kansai region and has been selected for “100 Precious Natural Landscapes of Japan to Preserve in the 21st Century” and “100 Secret Locations of Japan.”
A Treasure Trove of Rare Flora and Fauna
The Hyogo-no-sen area is a precious region where Western Japan’s only subarctic wetland plants remain. This excellent natural environment is home to numerous rare plants and animals.
Most notably, it is a habitat for Golden Eagles designated as a National Natural Monument. Hyogo-no-sen, where these increasingly rare eagles in Japan still inhabit, is an extremely important mountain area from the perspective of wildlife protection.
In addition to Golden Eagles, Asiatic black bears, Japanese dormice (National Natural Monument), and other diverse mammals inhabit the area, maintaining a rich ecosystem. Finding traces of these wild animals during climbing is also one of the pleasures of climbing Hyogo-no-sen.
Hyogo-no-sen Displaying Various Faces Throughout the Seasons
Hyogo-no-sen presents different beauty throughout the four seasons, allowing visitors to enjoy entirely different charms depending on when they visit.
Spring Hyogo-no-sen | Fresh Green Leaves and Skunk Cabbage
As the snow melts with the arrival of spring, fresh green beech leaves emerging at Hyogo-no-sen dye the mountainside in soft green. The contrast between lingering snow and new greenery is beautiful, and alpine plants like skunk cabbage bloom in wetland areas.
Summer Hyogo-no-sen | Cool Respite Climbing
Near the summit at 1,510m elevation, you can enjoy cool and comfortable climbing even in midsummer. The deep green beech forest creates shade, making it a season to fully enjoy forest bathing. Early morning climbing sometimes allows encounters with fantastical landscapes shrouded in morning mist.
Autumn Hyogo-no-sen | Golden Fall Foliage
Fall foliage season is when Hyogo-no-sen is busiest with climbers. From mid-October through early November, beeches and maples turn golden and crimson, and the entire mountain is enveloped in breathtakingly beautiful autumn colors. The “Hyogo-no-sen Autumn Foliage Climbing Festival” is also held, attracting many climbing enthusiasts.
Winter Hyogo-no-sen | Rime-Covered Trees and Snow Mountain Climbing
Winter at Hyogo-no-sen features rime-covered trees, the origin of its name, as the main attraction. During the coldest periods, trees become encased in ice, creating a pristine white forest of rime. Additionally, Hyogo-no-sen is known as one of Western Japan’s premier ski destinations, with ski slopes well-developed. Snow mountain climbing is for advanced climbers, but trekking using snowshoes is also popular.
Main Climbing Routes of Hyogo-no-sen | Course Overview and Points of Interest
Hyogo-no-sen has multiple climbing routes, but here we explain the representative courses in detail.
Wakasa Hyogo-no-sen Nature Interaction Park Course (Most Popular Route)
Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
Time Required: Round trip approximately 5-6 hours
Distance: One way approximately 4.5km
Elevation Gain: Approximately 700m
The most popular course starting from Wakasa Hyogo-no-sen Nature Interaction Park (elevation approximately 800m). The trailhead is equipped with parking, toilets, and a visitor center, making it safe for beginners.
Course Characteristics and Points of Interest
Trailhead to Hyogo-no-koe (approximately 2 hours)
The trail climbs gradually through natural beech forest. The well-maintained trail allows you to enjoy forest bathing. Along the way, the sound of clear streams is pleasant, and you can hear birdsong.
Hyogo-no-koe to Summit (approximately 1 hour)
Hyogo-no-koe is a saddle on the ridge marking the Hyogo-Tottori prefectural border. From here to the summit, steep climbing continues, but as you emerge from the trees, the view opens and you can see surrounding mountains. After the final climb, you arrive at the open summit.
Taidan-ga-hira Course (Yawata City Side)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Time Required: Round trip approximately 6-7 hours
Distance: One way approximately 5.5km
Elevation Gain: Approximately 900m
A course approaching from Yawata City on the Hyogo Prefecture side. Though a longer course, it offers quiet mountain walking.
Fukusada親水 Park Course (Tottori Prefecture Side)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Time Required: Round trip approximately 7-8 hours
Distance: One way approximately 6km
Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,000m
A course from Wakasa Town on the Tottori Prefecture side, with the longest distance and elevation gain. Suited for experienced hikers, it offers varied climbing experiences.
Magnificent Panoramic Views from Hyogo-no-sen Summit
A 360-degree panorama spreads from the Hyogo-no-sen summit at 1,510m elevation. With favorable weather conditions, you can view the following famous peaks.
Major Mountains Visible from the Summit
- North: Mt. Daisen in Tottori Prefecture (elevation 1,729m), Mt. Ougi
- East: Mt. Hachifu, Mt. Sowu
- South: Mt. Nagi, Mt. Ushiro
- West: Mountains of the Chugoku Range
On clear days, you can sometimes see as far as the Sea of Japan and the Seto Inland Sea, offering the magnificent views befitting Hyogo Prefecture’s highest peak. Mt. Rokko and Mt. Haku can sometimes be seen, making mountain identification another pleasure.
The summit is broad and level, allowing you to rest comfortably while enjoying the scenery. An emergency shelter is available for protection during bad weather.
Access Methods for Hyogo-no-sen Climbing
Access by Car
Wakasa Hyogo-no-sen Nature Interaction Park (Tottori Prefecture Side)
- Approximately 50 minutes from “Kawahara IC” via Tottori Expressway and National Route 29
- Parking: Free (approximately 50 spaces)
- Restrooms and visitor center available
Taidan-ga-hira Trailhead (Hyogo Prefecture Side)
- Approximately 40 minutes from “Yawata IC” via Kitakinki-Toyooka Expressway
- Parking: Free (approximately 20 spaces)
Access by Public Transportation
Public transportation access is limited, and temporary buses may operate during climbing season. It is recommended to check with Yawata City Tourism Association or Wakasa Town Tourism Association in advance.
Precautions and Preparations for Hyogo-no-sen Climbing
Climbing Clothing and Equipment
- Basic Equipment: Climbing boots, rain gear, cold-weather clothing, hat, gloves
- Belongings: Map, compass, headlamp, drinking water (1.5L or more), snacks, first-aid kit
- Summer: Insect repellent spray, sunscreen
- Winter: Crampons, ice axes, snowshoes (during snow season)
Climbing Precautions
- Beware of Bears: Asiatic black bears inhabit this area. Carry a bear bell and make noise as you walk
- Sudden Weather Changes: Weather can change rapidly near the summit, so always check forecasts
- Submit Climbing Registration: Always submit your registration at the posting box at the trailhead
- Restrooms: While a bio-toilet is available on the summit, it is recommended to use facilities at the trailhead
- Mobile Phones: Cell coverage is available near the summit, but some areas along the route may be out of range
Best Seasons
- Fresh Green Leaves: May to June
- Summer Mountains: July to August
- Fall Foliage: Mid-October to early November
- Rime-Covered Trees: January to February (for advanced climbers)
Climbing during snowy periods (December to March) requires snow mountain equipment and experience. Beginners are recommended to climb during snow-free seasons.
Tourist Spots and Hot Springs Around Hyogo-no-sen
Wakasa Hyogo-no-sen Nature Interaction Park
A facility adjacent to the trailhead with a visitor center where you can learn about Hyogo-no-sen’s nature and history. Ideal for gathering information and taking a break before and after climbing.
Hyogo-no-sen International Ski Resort
Operating in winter as one of Western Japan’s premier ski resorts. Offers high-quality powder snow and is popular with skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Nearby Hot Spring Facilities
Hyogo Prefecture Side
- Yabu Hot Spring: A day-use hot spring facility in Yawata City
- Hachi Highland Hot Spring: A hot spring where you can ease climbing fatigue
Tottori Prefecture Side
- Wakasa Hyogo-no-sen Hot Spring: A day-use hot spring near the trailhead
It is recommended to bathe in a hot spring after climbing and enjoy local cuisine.
Traverse Route Between Hyogo-no-sen and Hachifu-yama
For experienced climbers, a traverse course from Hyogo-no-sen to neighboring Mt. Hachifu (elevation 1,221m) is also available. This is a full-scale mountain hike through the core of Hyogo-no-sen Ushiroyama Nagi-yama Quasi-National Park, allowing for beech ridge trekking. The typical time required is one to two days, and mountain hut stays using an emergency shelter are possible.
Conclusion | The Charms of Hyogo-no-sen, Hyogo Prefecture’s Highest Peak
As Hyogo Prefecture’s highest peak and the second-highest peak in the Chugoku region, Hyogo-no-sen is a famous mountain loved by many climbers. The 360-degree panorama visible from 1,510m elevation, vast primordial beech forests, the rich natural environment where National Natural Monument Golden Eagles inhabit, and landscapes that change with the four seasons—there are always new discoveries to be made on this charming mountain no matter how many times you visit.
Beyond being selected as one of Japan’s 200 Famous Mountains and Hyogo’s 50 Hometown Mountains, it has also been designated among “100 Precious Natural Landscapes of Japan to Preserve in the 21st Century” and “100 Secret Locations of Japan,” with its natural value widely recognized.
Hyogo-no-sen offers climbing suited to each level, from beginners to advanced climbers. With fresh greenery in spring, cool breezes in summer, autumn foliage, and rime-covered trees in winter, this mountain displays a different face with each season. Please experience the charm of Hyogo Prefecture’s highest peak in a mountain hike here.
When climbing, practice environmental conservation, always take your trash with you, and maintain appropriate distance from wildlife, enjoying your mountain walk while respecting nature. We hope that the rich natural environment of Hyogo-no-sen will continue to be cherished by many and passed on to future generations.
