Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Mount Hyonosen is a mountain with an elevation of approximately 1,510m located in Shiso City, Hyogo Prefecture (and straddling the border with Tottori Prefecture), and is known as one of the highest peaks in Hyogo Prefecture. Mount Hyonosen is located in the central mountain range of Hyonosen-Ushiroyama-Nagisan Quasi-National Park, and its major attractions include high-quality virgin forests of beech and mixed beech trees, abundant alpine plants, and the scenery of a region with heavy snowfall in winter.
Historically, it has long been a popular place of worship for the locals and a source of water for the local community, and in recent years, the number of visitors has increased for mountain climbing and trekking, the fresh greenery and flowers of spring, the autumn leaves, and skiing and snow activities in winter. The area is characterized by its rich natural beauty that changes with each season, and the variety of hiking routes that take advantage of the differences in altitude.
Highlights
- Primeval beech forest and alpine plants: Large beech forests remain on the mountainside, and beautiful scenery can be enjoyed during the seasons of new greenery and yellow leaves. Alpine plants can be seen near the summit (depending on the season).
- View from the summit: On clear days, you can see the surrounding mountains, the scenery along the Sea of Japan, and the mountains of Harima and Tajima. The view is particularly good on clear autumn and winter days.
- Snow area (winter): There are ski resorts and snow zones nearby, and in the deep snow of winter, it can also serve as a base for snowshoe hiking and backcountry skiing (for experienced hikers).
- The four seasons: You can enjoy the completely different charms of each season, from the lingering snow and fresh greenery of spring, to the flowers of early summer, the autumn leaves, and the snowy scenery of winter.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Public transportation: As this is a mountainous area, public transportation is limited. There are buses and seasonal shuttles that run from the nearest major station to the trailhead, but these are infrequent so it's best to check in advance. If you're using public transportation from the Himeji or Tottori areas, it's common to combine a taxi or local bus from the station.
- Car (recommended): Your own car or a rental car is the most convenient way to get there. Access is via the Chugoku Expressway and the Bantan Link Road, and parking lots are available at trailheads and ski resorts. Please drive carefully as the roads in the mountain areas are narrow and have many curves.
- Recommendation: Bus schedules change depending on the season, and some roads are closed in winter due to snow, so please check with the city hall tourism department, mountain climbing information, and road information before setting off.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day hikes (round trip): A typical hiking route will take approximately 2.5 to 4 hours to climb and 1.5 to 3 hours to descend, depending on your stamina and the route, so including breaks it will take roughly 4 to 8 hours round trip.
- A leisurely hike: If you just want to walk halfway up the mountain and observe nature, it will take about half a day to a full day.
- Accommodation plan: If you plan to stay at a mountain hut or a nearby hot spring inn and enjoy an early morning summit and sightseeing in the surrounding area, we recommend a two-day, one-night plan.
Nearby spots
- The natural park area around Mt. Hyonose: There are several mountain trails and hiking trails nearby, as well as mountains and view spots that can be enjoyed on day trips.
- Local hot springs and accommodations: There are many inns and day-trip hot spring facilities where you can enjoy hot springs and local cuisine after your hike (please check the accommodations' operating status in advance).
- Roadside stations and local product shops: These facilities sell local specialties and seasonal agricultural products, making them convenient places to buy souvenirs and take a break.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Limited public transportation: As mentioned above, public transportation is infrequent, so please plan your access in advance and arrange a taxi or shuttle if necessary.
- Weather and clothing: The weather in the mountains is changeable, with large temperature differences between morning and evening, especially in spring and autumn. In winter, the area experiences heavy snowfall, so cold weather and waterproof gear, as well as crampons and chains, are essential.
- Climbing plan and disaster prevention measures: Allow ample time for your route, and be sure to prepare a climbing notification, contact your companions, a cell phone (there are areas where there is no signal), a map, a GPS, etc. Do not push yourself in bad weather.
- Nature conservation and etiquette: Please be sure to take your trash with you, avoid collecting plants, and avoid camping outside designated areas. Please be mindful of the protection of rare plants and wildlife.
- Wild animals: There are areas where bears and wild boars live. Please take precautions such as avoiding alone, making your presence known by shouting, and carefully managing your food.
- Crowds: Trailheads and parking lots can be crowded during the main climbing seasons (autumn foliage and long weekends). Consider leaving early or visiting on a weekday.
Finally: Mt. Hyonose is a wonderful mountain where you can enjoy nature in all four seasons, but the mountain range is large and the natural environment is subject to change. Please make safety your first priority, be well prepared, and respect local rules and the natural environment while you enjoy the mountain.
