Hey everyone! If you're starting to feel overwhelmed by the fast-paced life in Tokyo and are looking for a spot to recharge your soul, grab your backpack and head straight to Mount Oyama. This isn't just a simple hike—it's a journey to explore Japanese culture and history. This post will share all the details from my unforgettable trip!
Mount Oyama - The "Hidden Gem" of Kanagawa
Towering at 1,252 meters, Mount Oyama (大山) is part of Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi-National Park and is known as the "green lungs" of Kanagawa Prefecture. Since ancient times, it's been a sacred mountain and an important pilgrimage site recognized as a Japan Heritage. People believe the gods of the mountain bring rain for bountiful harvests, which is why it's also called "Amefuri-yama" (雨降山 – Rain Mountain).
Preparing for Your Mount Oyama Hike
Even though Mount Oyama is considered beginner-friendly, I found it a bit challenging, so make sure to wear comfortable activewear, and at the very least, good sneakers. It's a good idea to bring hiking poles to make the climb easier.
If you're starting from Tokyo, to save money and make things convenient, I recommend getting the Tanzawa-Oyama Freepass from Odakyu Railways. This pass includes:
Round-trip train ticket from Shinjuku to Isehara Station.
Unlimited bus rides in the area.
Round-trip cable car ticket to Mount Oyama.
Starting the Adventure
First Stop: Isehara Station
The first place you'll head to is Isehara Station (伊勢原), then hop on a bus to the stop near the Oyama Cable Car. After getting off the bus, you'll walk a bit to reach the cable car station. This path is the Koma Sando (こま参道), an ancient stone-stepped street with 362 steps. Lined on both sides are countless souvenir shops, local specialty stores, and cute little eateries.
Cable Car Up the Mountain and Two Paths: Otoko-zaka vs Onna-zaka
From the cable car station, you can choose to take the cable car up the mountain or hike. If you hike, you'll pick between two paths:
Otoko-zaka (男坂 - Men's Slope): Steeper and more direct, it's a real challenge with rugged stone steps.
Onna-zaka (女坂 - Women's Slope): Gentler and easier, along the way you'll find the 7 Mysteries (Nana Fushigi) and Oyama-dera Temple.
Tip: Go up via Otoko-zaka to challenge yourself and come down via Onna-zaka to leisurely enjoy the views and visit the temple.
Oyama Afuri Shrine - The Sacred Heart of the Mountain
Whether you take the cable car or hike, your first major stop will be the Oyama Afuri Shrine (Shimosha - Lower Shrine). This over 2,200-year-old shrine sits at about 700 meters elevation, dedicated to the gods of the mountain, water, and sake.
From the shrine's grounds, you'll enjoy a stunning panoramic view: from the Shonan Plain, Sagami Bay, to Enoshima Island. Don't forget to stop by Sekison Tea House for a matcha tiramisu and some Instagram-worthy photos with that amazing view.
If you visit in autumn (mid to late November), you'll be amazed by the vibrant red maple leaves covering the ancient stone steps. There's even an evening lantern festival that creates a magical, glowing atmosphere.
Another fun thing is you can drink sacred water from a stone dragon spout, praying for health and peace.
Starting the Climb to Conquer Oyama Summit
From Afuri Shrine Shimosha, the real summit push begins. The trail is about 1.5km and takes around 90 minutes on foot. It's quite steep with lots of rocks, but the ancient cedar trees and fresh air on both sides will give you the energy to keep going.
There are 2 routes to climb:
Omote-sando Route: about 90 minutes
The traditional and most popular route.
Lots of stone steps, passing markers from 1-chome to 28-chome.
Rich scenery along the way: the Meoto-sugi twin trees, peony rock, Fujimidai viewpoint for Mount Fuji, and more.
Plenty of uphill, but the path is straightforward with handrails and clear steps.
Suitable for beginners who want a bit of a challenge.
Miharashi-dai Route: about 120 minutes
This route is gentler and often chosen for descent.
Passes through 見晴台 (Miharashidai) – a famous viewpoint with benches and stunning views.
Dense forest, twin waterfalls (二重滝), peaceful atmosphere and more nature. Fewer people, more relaxed, perfect for those wanting to unwind and avoid crowds.
Đường leo khá dài và dốc
At the summit, you'll find the Honsha (Main Shrine) of Afuri Shrine. Standing at the top, breathing in the fresh air, and gazing out feels absolutely exhilarating.
At the top, there's a spot to take in the views and relax. It's the perfect place to enjoy lunch and unwind after the tiring climb.
Cảnh thành phố nhìn từ đỉnh núi
The Descent
If you descend via the Miharashi-dai route, you can stop to rest and enjoy the views there
Near the bottom of the mountain, I spotted this sacred tree.
Heading Back to the City
After a long day, I returned to Isehara Station and took the train back to Tokyo. Even though I was exhausted, I felt incredibly relaxed and full of energy inside. Oyama is truly a fantastic destination to escape the daily grind, immerse yourself in nature, and find inner peace. I'll definitely be back.
Xin chào các bạn. Mình là kỹ sư IT đang làm việc ở Nhật Bản. Mình tạo blog này để chia sẻ về cuộc sống và những kinh nghiệm trong quá trình học tập và làm việc. Hy vọng bài viết này sẽ có ích cho bạn.
