Ogurayama

Overview

Ogurayama is a 296-meter mountain in the Ukyō ward of Kyoto, rising on the north bank of the Katsura River and facing Arashiyama on the opposite shore. A signature peak of the Saga-Arashiyama district, it has also been known as Ozanyama, Okurayama, and Kakurayama. Renowned since ancient times as an utamakura, a place celebrated in classical poetry, it lends a quiet lyricism to the Sagano landscape where river and mountain meet.

Highlights

• ●A 296-meter peak on the north bank of the Katsura River, facing Arashiyama
• ●A celebrated utamakura sung of in classical poetry since ancient times
• ●A historic name also rendered as Ozanyama, Okurayama, and Kakurayama
• ●Sagano views that shift with the seasons, crowned by autumn foliage

History

Set in the Sagano district, Ogurayama has long been cherished by aristocrats and poets as a mountain of refined beauty. The several names by which it has been called, such as Ozanyama, Okurayama, and Kakurayama, suggest how familiar it was to people across the ages. Facing Arashiyama across the Katsura River, it appears again and again in the world of waka poetry as a scenic landmark of the seasons. For detailed historical background, please check official information.

Map

35.0236, 135.6589 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Begin near Arashiyama or Saga-Arashiyama station and enter Sagano
2. 2Enjoy the view of Ogurayama and Arashiyama from along the Katsura River
3. 3In autumn, take time to admire the crimson mountainside
4. 4Stroll the Sagano area and soak in its poetic atmosphere (check official information)

Did you know?

💡 Ogurayama has long been spoken of as an utamakura closely tied to classical poetry, including the famous Hyakunin Isshu anthology. For lovers of waka and classical literature, the name of this mountain facing Arashiyama across the Katsura River carries a special resonance. Gazing at the view while imagining poets of old looking upon the same slopes deepens the pleasure of a Sagano stroll.

Nearby spots