Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Mount Amagi is a mountain range that includes the highest peak of the Amagi Mountains, located in Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture. It is a chain of volcanic mountains that stretches across the central Izu Peninsula. The highest peak is about 1,400 meters high, and the area is known for its deep primeval forests (broadleaf forests of beech and birch), steep valleys, and abundant underground water. It has long been a popular route (the Amagi Pass) and a setting for songs and literature, and is sometimes associated with "Crossing the Amagi Mountains" and Yasunari Kawabata's short story.
Its distinctive features include the rich changes in vegetation throughout the seasons, the fresh greenery of spring, the beautiful mountain flowers and azaleas in early summer, and the beautiful autumn leaves. It is also prone to fog, creating a fantastical landscape known as the "Amagi Mist." There are many tourist attractions, such as mountain trails with varying altitudes and an old stone tunnel (Amagi Tunnel), making it an ideal place to combine a stay with a hot spring resort.
Highlights
- Around Mt. Manzaburo (the highest peak of Mt. Amagi): If conditions are good, you can sometimes see Suruga Bay and Mt. Fuji from the summit. You can enjoy hiking routes and ridge walks.
- Primeval forest and beech forest: There are several trails where you can enjoy a quiet forest bath, and the scenery is particularly spectacular during the seasons of new greenery and autumn leaves.
- Amagi Tunnel (formerly Amagi Tunnel): A stone tunnel built during the Meiji period, it is a popular photo spot with its historical landscape.
- Valleys and waterfalls: There are abundant streams and waterfalls scattered throughout the area. The areas around the waterfalls are cool, making them ideal places to escape the heat in the summer.
- Wildlife: Enjoy observing wild plants, alpine plants, birds, and more (observation targets change depending on the season).
- Combining with hot springs: After climbing, you can bathe and stay overnight at nearby hot springs such as Yugashima Onsen and Shuzenji Onsen.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
It is accessible by both public transport and car. The approximate distances from major bases are as follows:
- Train + Bus: From Tokyo, take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima or Atami, then take the Izuhakone Railway, Izukyu Line, or local bus (Izuhakone Bus, Tokai Bus, etc.) to bus stops in the direction of Amagi (Amagi Kogen, Joren Falls, Yugashima, etc.). Please note that there are limited bus services on some routes, so please check the timetable in advance.
- By car: From the Tomei Expressway's Numazu IC or Susono IC, take the Izu Jukan Expressway and national highway for approximately 1-2 hours (depending on the starting point and traffic conditions). Please note that the roads in the mountain areas are narrow and winding in some sections. There may be free or paid parking at the main trailheads.
- Taxi: For routes with poor bus service, taking a taxi from the nearest station is convenient but expensive.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short hikes (day trips/light mountain climbing): A round trip from the trailhead to the waterfall and observation point takes about 2-4 hours.
- Regular hike to and from the summit (Manzaburo-dake): Depending on the trailhead and route, it will take about 2-4 hours to climb and 1.5-3 hours to descend, so you should plan on spending a total of half a day to a full day.
- Traverses and multiple peaks: Some routes take more than a day and require ample planning.
- Stay including hot springs and sightseeing: 1 day if you include a day trip to the hot springs, or 1 night or more if you want to relax at the hot springs.
Nearby spots
- Shuzenji Onsen and Shuzenji Temple (a historic hot spring town perfect for dining and strolling)
- Joren Falls (a representative waterfall in Izu. You can enjoy viewing the waterfall and walking around the surrounding area.)
- Yugashima Onsen (hot spring resort at the foot of Mt. Amagi. Accommodation facilities dotted around the area)
- Kawazu (famous for its Kawazu cherry blossoms. A seasonal tourist spot)
- Izu Kogen, Izu Cactus Park, Atami (tourist spots accessible by car)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Sudden changes in weather: As this is a mountainous region, the weather can change suddenly. Be sure to bring rain gear and cold weather gear, and check the weather forecast before setting off.
- Footing and equipment: The hiking trail is muddy, steep, and rocky, so be sure to bring trekking shoes, trekking poles, and a map (or GPS). Be especially careful during the slippery season.
- Transportation: Public transportation has limited service in some areas. Please check the bus timetable and the last bus in advance and plan a reasonable itinerary.
- Crowds and Parking: Parking lots near the trailhead and tourist spots can be crowded during the autumn foliage season and on weekends. We recommend arriving early.
- Nature Conservation and Manners: Leaving the hiking trails, picking plants, and littering are strictly prohibited. To maintain a quiet environment, please refrain from shouting and be considerate by picking up your pet droppings.
- Insects and ticks: There is a risk of ticks and other insects in the grass, so wear long sleeves and long pants, use insect repellent, and check your clothes and body after returning home.
- Winter warning: Due to the possibility of snow and ice, light clothing is not permitted for mountain climbing in winter. Crampons and alpine gear may be required.
In addition, specific hiking routes and access (such as timetables and availability of parking) change depending on the season and road conditions, so please check the latest information (on local government websites, hiking information websites, official transportation information) before setting off.
