PowerSpots

Japan Sacred Spots

Mt. Daisen

Daisen-cho, Kotoura-cho, Kofu-cho (among others), Saihaku-gun, Tottori PrefectureView on map

Map

Mt. Daisen is a sacred mountain 1,729 m high in western Tottori Prefecture, the highest peak in the Chugoku region. A dacitic stratovolcano, its body measures about 35 km east to west and 30 km north to south. At elevations of 800 to 1,300 m lies the largest beech forest in western Japan, and near the summit grows a pure stand of Daisen kyaraboku, designated a Special Natural Monument.

Nature Info

Type
Sacred mountain
Elevation
Elevation 1,729m (highest peak in the Chugoku region)
Access
About 50 minutes by Nihon Kotsu bus from JR Yonago Station to the Daisenji bus stop

History & Origins

It has been an object of Daisen worship since ancient times and is also mentioned in the Izumo no Kuni Fudoki. Revered as a sacred mountain since the Yayoi period, it flourished after the arrival of Buddhism as a training site of the Shingon sect. The temple name was abolished in the 1875 anti-Buddhist movement, but was revived in 1903.

Highlights

The steep rock ridges of the north face and the gentle ridgelines of the south side create a striking contrast. On clear days, the summit gives views as far as the Sea of Japan and the Shimane Peninsula. The yellow leaves of the beech forest in autumn are especially beautiful, and attract many photography enthusiasts.

Visitor Guide

The Summer Climbing Trail (Daisenji entrance) is well maintained, and even beginners can aim for the summit. Visiting the temples and shrines at the foot of the mountain, such as Daisenji and Ogamiyama Shrine, is also popular. During the snow season (November to April), sufficient equipment is needed.

Best Season

Fresh green in June to July and autumn leaves in October to November are especially popular. In winter, snowfall is heavy and ski areas open.