Naka-Hiruzen

Overview

Naka-Hiruzen is a 971-meter peak that rises at the center of the three summits known collectively as the Hiruzen Sanza. Its top area lies on the border between Kurayoshi in Tottori Prefecture and Maniwa in Okayama Prefecture, and together with the Hiruzen Highlands spreading to the south it forms one of the finest highland and hiking areas in the Chugoku region. Standing between Kami-Hiruzen and Shimo-Hiruzen, it is the linchpin of a traverse over all three summits.

Highlights

• ●A 971-meter peak at the center of the three Hiruzen summits
• ●A summit area straddling Kurayoshi in Tottori and Maniwa in Okayama
• ●The key peak of a traverse linking Kami- and Shimo-Hiruzen
• ●Ridgeline views overlooking the Hiruzen Highlands to the south

History

The three peaks of Hiruzen have long been familiar to people as a ridgeline dividing the San'in and San'yo sides, and Naka-Hiruzen has been climbed as their central summit. The Naka (meaning middle) in its name comes precisely from its position at the center of the three. For further historical and religious background, please refer to official information.

Map

35.3208, 133.6750 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Begin climbing Naka-Hiruzen from a trailhead on the Hiruzen Highlands side
2. 2Reach the ridge and enjoy the vista overlooking the highlands
3. 3At the summit, feel the chain of three peaks and the San'in-San'yo divide
4. 4If energy allows, attempt the traverse to Kami- and Shimo-Hiruzen

Did you know?

💡 Kami-Hiruzen, Naka-Hiruzen, and Shimo-Hiruzen together are called the Hiruzen Sanza, or three peaks of Hiruzen, and Naka-Hiruzen stands at their center. The traverse linking the three peaks offers exhilarating ridge walking above the highlands.

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