Overview
Tengunomori is a 1,485-meter peak rising at the eastern edge of the Shikoku Karst, a limestone plateau spread across the southwestern part of the Shikoku Mountains. Straddling the border between Kumakogen in Ehime and Kochi Prefecture, it is distinguished by gentle, grassland-like ridges dotted with white limestone outcrops. Offering the grand vistas of one of Shikoku's highest districts, it is counted among the 「Hundred Famous Mountains of Shikoku」 and feels like a walk across the sky.
Highlights
- ●A 1,485-meter peak representing the eastern Shikoku Karst
- ●Gentle grassland ridges studded with white limestone rocks
- ●Grand vistas as one of the Hundred Famous Mountains of Shikoku
- ●A sky-high plateau landscape on the Ehime–Kochi border
History
The Shikoku Karst that shapes this district was born when limestone laid down on an ancient seabed slowly uplifted and was dissolved by rainwater into a plateau. Tengunomori sits at its eastern end and was long used as grazing land. Rather than a jagged rock spire, it presents a gentle form of grassland and forest, and in later years it was chosen as one of the Hundred Famous Mountains of Shikoku, cherished by hikers as a peak that epitomizes the karst scenery.
Access
Tengunomori lies near 33.48 degrees north and 133.01 degrees east, on the border between Kumakogen in Ehime and Kochi Prefecture (Niyodogawa and Tsuno towns). A scenic road runs along the ridge of the Shikoku Karst, and the peak is usually visited together with the surrounding karst plateau. Trail, parking, and road conditions vary with the season, and winter brings snow and ice, so always confirm access with official sources such as Kumakogen Town.
Best season
Early summer through summer, when the plateau turns green and wildflowers bloom, is comfortable and draws hikers seeking cool air. Clear autumn skies allow long-distance views, and the grassland turning golden is a lovely sight. Because the elevation is high and mornings and evenings are cold, bring warm clothing. In winter snow blankets the whole karst white and roads may close, so be sure to check conditions before your trip.
Map
33.4808, 133.0153 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Reach the plateau via the Shikoku Karst scenic road
- 2Follow the ridge path toward the summit of Tengunomori
- 3Survey the limestone-dotted plateau and Shikoku Mountains from the top
- 4Explore the surrounding karst scenery and pasture landscapes
Did you know?
💡 The name Tengunomori, meaning 「forest of the tengu」, evokes an old mountain-worship belief that these long-nosed goblins dwelt among deep forests and high peaks. The Shikoku Karst is regarded as one of Japan's three great karst plateaus, and Tengunomori represents its eastern heights. The limestone rocks scattered like a flock of grazing sheep are a sight unique to this mountain.
Nearby spots
Traveler reviews0
No reviews yet. Be the first to share!