Mount Tsukuba — Attraction in Tsukuba

Mount Tsukuba is one of Japan’s most famous mountains, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, about 60 kilometers (37 miles) northeast of Tokyo. Standing at 877 meters (2,877 feet) tall, the mountain is known for its distinctive twin peaks, Nyotai-san and Nantai-san, which symbolize the mountain’s cultural and spiritual significance. Unlike Japan’s other iconic mountain, Mount Fuji, which is a dormant volcano, Mount Tsukuba is composed of non-volcanic rock and has a long history of religious importance, stunning natural beauty, and recreational opportunities.

Twin Peaks

Mount Tsukuba is famous for its twin peaks, each representing a deity in Japanese mythology:

• Nyotai-san (877 meters): The “female” peak, also known as the feminine peak, is the taller of the two and is associated with the goddess Izanami, who, according to legend, helped create Japan. • Nantai-san (871 meters): The “male” peak represents the god Izanagi, Izanami’s consort, who also played a significant role in the creation myth of the country.

These twin peaks give Mount Tsukuba its unique silhouette, which is easily recognizable and steeped in folklore.

Religious and Cultural Significance

• Tsukubasan Shrine: At the base of Mount Tsukuba sits Tsukubasan Shrine, a significant Shinto shrine that has attracted worshippers for over 1,000 years. The shrine venerates the mountain’s deities and has been a pilgrimage site for those seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and safety. The shrine’s architecture blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings, and visitors can take in the serene atmosphere before ascending the mountain. • Legend and Myth: According to Japanese legend, Mount Tsukuba was favored by the gods, while Mount Fuji was considered a lonely and aloof mountain. This lore is one reason why Mount Tsukuba has traditionally been seen as a symbol of fertility and good fortune.

Natural Beauty and Flora

Mount Tsukuba’s diverse ecosystems make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The mountain is covered in lush forests that change dramatically with the seasons:

• Spring: In spring, Mount Tsukuba is adorned with blooming cherry blossoms, azaleas, and other flowering plants, attracting hikers and tourists. The Tsukuba Azalea Festival, held in late April and early May, celebrates the vibrant colors of the mountain’s flora. • Autumn: One of the most popular times to visit is during autumn when the mountain is ablaze with red, orange, and yellow leaves. The autumn foliage attracts both hikers and casual visitors, with the leaves reaching their peak around mid-November. • Winter: While snow occasionally dusts the peaks, winter hiking remains accessible. The mountain’s higher elevations offer clear, crisp views of the surrounding Kanto region.

Hiking and Outdoor Activities

Mount Tsukuba offers a variety of hiking trails suited to different skill levels, making it an accessible destination for both casual walkers and experienced hikers.

• Hiking Trails: The trails leading up to the twin peaks vary in difficulty. The most popular trail, the Miyukigahara Course, is a moderate hike that takes about 90 minutes to reach the summit from Tsukubasan Shrine. Other trails, such as the Shirakumobashi Course and the Otatsuishi Course, offer more challenging hikes with steeper ascents and scenic views. • Summit Views: Reaching the summits of Nyotai-san or Nantai-san rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the Kanto Plain. On a clear day, visitors can see Tokyo’s skyscrapers, the Pacific Ocean, and even Mount Fuji in the distance. The twin peaks are connected by a short ridge trail, allowing hikers to visit both summits easily. • Cable Car and Ropeway: For those who prefer not to hike, Mount Tsukuba offers both a cable car and a ropeway that transport visitors to near the summit. The Tsukuba Cable Car ascends from the foothills to the summit of Nantai-san, while the Mount Tsukuba Ropeway takes passengers from near Tsukubasan Shrine to Nyotai-san. Both options provide stunning views of the...

11/16/2024

It was my first hike in my whole life and this mountain’s supposed to be the easiest listed on the 100 Mountains of Japan but it was a hike. I started going up from Miyukigahara Route and that route has everything from rocky points, tree roots, and wooden stairs.

The estimate time says 90 minutes and it took me to the Nantaisan Summit for 80 minutes with 5 minute rest in the middle. It seemed like it’s a hiking manner to greet to those who are their way down or vice versa.

I saw lots of tourists from other countries too. Also many Japanese people seemed that they’re from different prefectures.

My hiking route this time was: Tsukubasan Shrine - Miyukigahara Route (up) - Miyukigahara (lunch at 11:30) - Nantaisan Summit - Nyotaisan Summit (too crowded) - Otatsuishi Route (down) - Tsutsujigaoka - Ropeway up to the summit of Nyotaisan again - Walk to Miyukigahara - Cable car down to the gate of Miyukigahara Route - Tsukubasan Shrine

It was the full course of everything packed i one day, both walking ups and downs and taking the both rides.

Would definitely recommend hiking this mountain but remember the points below:

Bring some cash (it is Japan!) Wear properly (the temperature at the summits is -5℃ compared to the one at the ground level) This mountain is the area of the God and the signs that say so are everywhere, language barriers do not matter so just respect how the locals and other hikers behave (the most important thing)

Expenses per person this time: Lunch ¥1,000-¥1,500 Souvenir ¥2,500 Light meals/snacks ¥1,000 Ropeway&Cable car ¥1,300ish Hiking routes ¥0

Total ¥6,000/person at least,...

Very picturesque mountain known for its two peaks, Nyotai-san and Nantai-san. The names translate to female body and male body respectively, related to Izanami and Izanagi. The peaks themselves are very accessible with many hiking trails, a cable car, and a ropeway. The walk between the two peaks isn't too long and there is a nice area in the middle with some small shops and snacks. Apparently on clear, sunny days you can see Mt. Fuji and other Tokyo landmarks.

It seems that the view from Nyotai-san is a very famous photo spot. When we visited during Golden Week, there was a long line waiting to get photos and signs asking guests to keep the photo-taking time to about 3 minutes per person. The shrine next to the photo spot sells goshuin and a commemorative towel.

Getting up to Nantai-san was more steep, but the views were stunning! When we visited, the shrine here was closed, but you can still get the goshuin from Tsukubasan Shrine at the base.

The seasonal flowers were beautiful as well, with the whole trail lined by azaleas (late...