Mt. Tsurugi
Map
Mt. Tsurugi is the highest peak in Tokushima Prefecture at 1,954 meters, the second highest in Shikoku after Mt. Ishizuchi. It sits on the border of Miyoshi, Mima and Naka Town (Naka District) and is counted among the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains. Near the summit stands Tsurugisan Hongu Ootsurugi Shrine, and it has long been revered as a sacred mountain of mountain worship and Shugendo.
Sacred Site Info
- Type
- Sacred mountain and mountain as object of worship
- Legend
- It is said that the sword of Emperor Antoku was buried at the summit and made the object of worship, and so the mountain came to be called Tsurugi-san (Mt. Tsurugi, "sword mountain").
- Element
- Mountain, rock
History & Origins
It was anciently called 'Tateishi-yama' or 'Ozasa,' and the name 'Tsurugisan' is said to have become established from the Edo period onward. A tradition that the sword of Emperor Antoku was buried on the summit is told as one of the origins of the mountain's name. It was opened as a sacred mountain of Shugendo, and in the Edo period worshippers came from various regions.
Highlights
Near the summit, a wide gentle plateau spreads out and is known as a treasure trove of alpine plants. Using the Tsurugisan climbing lift, the upper part of the mountain can be reached relatively easily, and mountain huts offering lodging are available. From the summit, visitors can enjoy a grand panorama of the Shikoku mountain range.
Visitor Guide
Using the Tsurugisan climbing lift (Mi-no-koshi to Nishijima Station), the summit takes about 40 to 60 minutes. Mi-no-koshi is about 2 hours from Tokushima City via National Route 438. The mountain hut (Tsurugisan Choujo Hutte) is open from July to October. In the snow season (December to March), mountaineering experience and equipment are required.
Best Season
July to October is the best season for climbing. In August, many climbers come to see the sunrise from the summit.
Blessings
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