Overview
Rising to 953.4 meters in the middle of Maniwa City, Hitsugasen is a mountain known locally as "Yubara Fuji" or "Yashiro Fuji" for the neat, conical profile it presents when viewed from the surrounding valley. Located near Yubara Onsen, one of the three celebrated hot-spring resorts of the old Mimasaka region, it is counted among the "100 Famous Mountains of the Chugoku Region" and draws hikers throughout the year.
Highlights
- ●A 953.4-meter peak in Maniwa City, ranked among the Chugoku region's 100 famous mountains
- ●The name Hitsugasen, derived from a silhouette resembling three lidded chests
- ●The legend of the tengu Sakuragi-bo at "Tengu no Mori" near the eighth station
- ●Proximity to Yubara Onsen, one of the three noted hot springs of old Mimasaka, for a post-hike soak
History
The mountain's name is said to come from its appearance from a trailhead upstream on the Asahi River: from there, its silhouette resembles three "hitsu," lidded chest-like boxes, and it has been called Hitsugasen since ancient times. Near the eighth station of the climb lies a spot known as "Tengu no Mori" (Tengu's Forest), where a tengu is enshrined. Local legend holds that this mountain's tengu, called Sakuragi-bo, is visited by Daisen-bo, the tengu said to dwell on Mount Daisen in neighboring Tottori.
Access
The mountain stands in the upper reaches of the Asahi River in central Maniwa City, with a trailhead reachable from near Yubara Onsen. Trail conditions and public transport options can change, so check current routes and travel times through Maniwa City or local tourism information before setting out.
Best season
As one of the Chugoku region's 100 famous mountains, Hitsugasen offers particularly striking views along its ridge during fresh spring greenery and autumn foliage. Since Yubara Onsen lies close by, it is easy to pair a hike with a relaxing soak in any season.
Map
35.1583, 133.7067 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Start from the trailhead in the upper Asahi River valley and hike up through the mountain's forest toward the eighth station
- 2Stop at Tengu no Mori near the eighth station to learn about its tengu legend
- 3Take in the view over central Maniwa City from the summit
- 4After descending, unwind with a bath at nearby Yubara Onsen
Did you know?
💡 The nicknames "Yubara Fuji" and "Yashiro Fuji" reflect how the mountain's tidy triangular form recalls Mount Fuji when seen from the surrounding villages. The tengu legend at the eighth station also hints at a folkloric connection with Mount Daisen, the revered peak in nearby Tottori Prefecture.
Nearby spots
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