Travel Guide Daisen-San

Visible from many parts of the prefecture, Mount Daisen impresses from the top of its 1,709 meters. Designated a national park of Japan in 1936, this volcano is a very popular destination for nature lovers, whether for hiking or skiing in winter. It is located only ten kilometers from the coast and offers, from its summit, a sensational panorama of the surroundings and the Sea of Japan. It takes between 5 and 6 hours of walking, round trip, to climb it from the Daisen-ji temple. This beautiful Buddhist temple was built on the slopes of the sacred mountain. Its Amida statue building and other parts of the temple have been designated a National Treasure. During the autumn, the mountain is decked out in its warmest colours, giving the hikes a very poetic dimension. More than 10,000 people climb the mountain every year. The many hiking trails allow you to explore the surrounding nature and regularly come face to face with a temple or a sanctuary. Once you have finished visiting Daisen-ji, go around it to the left to go to Ogamiyama-jinja shrine. One reaches it by a long stone path, worn by time, in the middle of cedars and a luxuriant nature. This path requires some efforts, the number of steps being rather consequent. In winter, the atmosphere and activities change, as snow falls in abundance. Winter visitors can enjoy the best ski area in western Japan. The latest statistics show that up to 90 cm of snow can fall in February. There are several ski resorts including Daisen White Resort (www.daisen-resort.jp). Go to the Daisen National Park Center (8am-6:30pm) at the foot of the mountain. There are a number of brochures, maps and useful information for climbing the volcano. In Miyukisandohon street, you will find several shops and boutiques for post-hike shopping. It is possible to stay at the foot of the mountain in one of the few lodgings that are there. To reach Daisen Mountain, renting a car or taking a taxi (30 minutes) is the most convenient option. Otherwise, take a local bus Nihon Kotsu from Yonago station (8 per day, 730 ¥).