Mount Gozaisho (Mt. Gozaisho, Komono Town, Mie Prefecture) — Overview (History, Features, and Attractions)
Mount Gozaisho (approximately 1,212m above sea level) is a peak in the Suzuka Mountains and a popular tourist and mountain climbing spot located in Komono Town, Mie Prefecture. It has been beloved by local people since ancient times, and in modern times, the opening of the Gozaisho Ropeway has made it easy to access the summit, allowing for a variety of activities to be enjoyed throughout the year, including mountain climbing, hiking, skiing, and sightseeing. Scattered among rocky areas and oddly shaped rocks, and with excellent views, on clear days you can sometimes see the direction of Ise Bay and the distant mountains. Each season is also attractive, with its fresh greenery and alpine plants in spring, autumn leaves, frost (ice trees) in winter, and ski season.
Highlights
- Gozaisho Ropeway: The main means of access from the base to near the summit. Enjoy the scenery as you ascend and descend through the air.
- Observation deck and promenade at the summit: There are several observation spots that can be reached in a short time, from which you can enjoy a magnificent panorama. If the conditions are good, you may be able to see Mount Fuji and Ise Bay in the distance.
- Hiking Courses: Choose from a light stroll using the ropeway to a full-scale mountain climb using multiple hiking routes. There is a wide variety of trails, including rocky areas, steep climbs, and forest paths.
- Alpine plants and wildlife: You can enjoy alpine plants from spring to summer and colorful autumn leaves in autumn. The mountain area is also home to many small animals and birds, making it a great place for nature observation.
- Winter frost (ice trees) and skiing: In winter, frost trees can be seen on some days, and Gozaisho Ski Resort is open. The snow scenery is beautiful (weather dependent).
- Yunoyama Onsen at the foot of the mountain: One of the attractions is being able to relax in the hot springs after hiking or sightseeing.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Public transportation: The nearest station is Kintetsu Yunoyama Onsen Station. From the station, take a local bus or taxi to the Gozaisho Ropeway station (approximately 10-20 minutes by bus or taxi).
- By car: From the Tokai region (Nagoya area), it takes approximately one hour via the expressway. There is a parking lot at the base of the mountain and a parking space near the ropeway station, but they may be full during peak seasons.
- Ropeway operation: Operating hours change depending on the weather and season, so please check the official Gozaisho Ropeway website in advance to confirm the operation status, timetable, and fare. Ropeway operations may be suspended in the event of strong winds or bad weather.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Round trip by ropeway + hiking to the summit: 2-3 hours (round trip by ropeway + sightseeing and light hiking at the summit)
- Light hiking (including the footpath around the summit): Half day (3-4 hours)
- Serious mountain climbing (round trip): Half a day to a full day (depending on the starting point of the route and your physical strength)
- If you include a stay at a hot spring: 1 day to 1 night (relax at Yunoyama Onsen after hiking)
Nearby spots
- Yunoyama Onsen (Komono Town) — A hot spring town convenient for bathing and staying overnight after hiking.
- Gozaisho Ski Resort — Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
- Nabana no Sato (tourist garden/illumination) — A tourist facility accessible by car (seasonal events are popular).
- Suzuka Circuit (motorsports venue) — Family-friendly facilities and events make it a great place to combine sightseeing.
- Yokkaichi/Kuwana area (gourmet food and historical sites) - You can also plan sightseeing in the surrounding cities.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The ropeway and parking lot can be crowded, especially during the autumn foliage season, weekends, and holidays, and the winter ski season. We recommend leaving early or visiting on a weekday.
- Weather changes: The weather on the mountains can change suddenly. The temperature drops significantly at the top, so be sure to bring warm clothing and rain gear. In winter, you may need special equipment (crampons, etc.) due to freezing and snow accumulation.
- Safety measures: Climbing routes vary in difficulty. Avoid difficult routes or activities in bad weather, and carry a map, cell phone, plenty of water, and food. In case of getting lost or getting injured, be sure to inform your family and accommodation of your plans.
- Ropeway suspension: Ropeway may be suspended due to strong winds, lightning, snowfall, etc., so please check the operation information in advance.
- Nature conservation and etiquette: Always take your trash with you and avoid harming plants and animals. On mountain trails, give priority to other climbers and be quiet. Follow the rules at mountain huts and hot springs.
- Mobile phone signals and equipment: There are some areas where signals are difficult to reach. We recommend preparing for emergencies (such as spare batteries).
(Note) Before visiting, please check the latest information from the Gozaisho Ropeway, the Komono Town Tourist Association, weather information, etc. The mountain has distinct seasonal charms, so please enjoy it safely with appropriate clothing and equipment according to your purpose (autumn leaves, frost, cherry blossom viewing, skiing, etc.).
