Overview
Mount Sanbongui rises to about 1,226 meters in the western part of the Shikoku Mountains, within the Onigajo mountain range. Because it towers just south of the scenic Nametoko Gorge, it is also called Mount Nametoko. Selected as one of Japan's 300 Famous Mountains and one of the 100 Famous Mountains of Shikoku, this notable peak has a first-order triangulation point at its summit (officially named Nametokoyama, at 1,225.72 meters). Threaded with deep valleys and clear streams, it is a mountain rich in the appeal of hiking and trekking.
Highlights
- ●A famous peak of about 1,226 meters chosen among Japan's 300 and Shikoku's 100 Famous Mountains
- ●A form rising just south of scenic Nametoko Gorge, also called Mount Nametoko
- ●A first-order triangulation point set at the summit at 1,225.72 meters
- ●A peak of the Onigajo range spanning Uwajima, Matsuno, and Shimanto in Kochi
History
Administratively the mountain spans Uwajima City and Matsuno Town in Ehime Prefecture as well as Shimanto City in Kochi Prefecture, though its summit belongs to Uwajima City. Long familiar under the name Nametokoyama, it lends that same name to the first-order triangulation point set at its peak. Its selection as both one of Japan's 300 Famous Mountains and one of the 100 Famous Mountains of Shikoku shows how highly its form and natural richness have long been valued.
Access
A well-known starting point for the climb is the Nametoko Gorge side within Uwajima City. The gorge promenade connects with the mountain trail, and many hikers combine a walk through the gorge with an ascent of the peak. Although the summit lies in Uwajima City, the mountain also extends into Matsuno Town and Shimanto City in Kochi Prefecture, so routes differ depending on the trailhead. Please check official information on trail conditions and the latest access before setting out.
Best season
Early summer with its dazzling fresh greenery and autumn when the trees turn color are especially recommended for enjoying the mountain together with Nametoko Gorge. As a peak of about 1,226 meters, temperatures along the ridge and near the summit vary greatly with season and weather. Proper gear and a sensible plan are key to a safe climb.
Map
33.1883, 132.6353 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Walk the Nametoko Gorge promenade and enjoy the streams and waterfalls
- 2Enter the trail from the south side of the gorge and aim for the summit of Sanbongui
- 3Stand at the summit triangulation point and take in the Onigajo range views
- 4After descending, savor local flavors in central Uwajima to close the trip
Did you know?
💡 The elevation of the first-order triangulation point at the summit is 1,225.72 meters, and its official name, Nametokoyama, matches the mountain's alternate name. Part of the Onigajo range, the mountain sits just south of Nametoko Gorge, a scenic spot known for its mountain streams and waterfalls. Along with its unusual name Sanbongui, it is loved by climbers as one of the 300 Famous Mountains of Japan and the 100 Famous Mountains of Shikoku.
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