Mount Kuki

Overview

Mount Kuki rises to 970 meters on the border of Tsuru and Otsuki cities in Yamanashi Prefecture. Set on the Akiyama ridge between the Katsura and Akiyama rivers of the Sagami River system, it is counted among the 100 Famous Mountains of Yamanashi. Blessed with fine views of Mount Fuji, it is chosen for both the 21 Fine Peaks of Tsuru and the 12 Superb Views of Mount Fuji. A folk tale of Momotaro adds to its charm, making it a peak where an easy climb and grand Fuji views come together.

Highlights

• ●A 970-meter viewpoint peak among the 100 Famous Mountains of Yamanashi
• ●Fuji views chosen for the 12 Superb Views of Mount Fuji and the 21 Fine Peaks of Tsuru
• ●A mountain woven into the Momotaro tale linked to Mount Momokura
• ●The surprising fact that a maglev test-line tunnel runs beneath its summit

History

Mount Kuki carries a Momotaro folk tale: it is said that Momotaro, born on nearby Mount Momokura in Otsuki City, came here to subdue the ogres. Thanks to its splendid views of Mount Fuji, it was chosen among the 21 Fine Peaks of Tsuru and the 12 Superb Views of Mount Fuji, long cherished as a mountain of fine scenery. Uniquely, a tunnel of the maglev test line runs almost directly beneath its summit.

Map

35.5764, 138.9508 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Head from the nearest station to a trailhead and start up the Akiyama ridge
2. 2Walk the ridge path, reflecting on the surrounding nature and the Momotaro tale
3. 3Savor the superb view of Mount Fuji from the 970-meter summit
4. 4After descending, ease your fatigue with hot springs and local cuisine in Tsuru or Otsuki

Did you know?

💡 Despite bearing the name Kuki (which evokes ogres), the mountain is tied to the ogre-subduing tale of Momotaro, said to have been born on nearby Mount Momokura. Even more curiously, a tunnel of the maglev test line runs almost directly beneath the summit, making this a peak where legend and cutting-edge technology intersect.

Nearby spots