Trailhead: Tsurugisan Kanko Center (Upper Chair Lift Station)

Trail Details

• Trailhead: Chair Lift Upper Station (1,700 meters elevation)

• Distance: Approx. 2 km (one way)

• Time Required: 2 hours (round trip)

• Elevation Gain: 250 meters from the upper lift station to the summit

• Difficulty: Beginner

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to autumn (May to November)

Mt. Tsurugi, rising to 1,955 meters, is accessible to hikers of various skill levels, making it a popular destination for both seasoned climbers and casual hikers.

The hike typically starts at the Minokoshi Trailhead. From here, you can either take a leisurely ride on the single-seat chairlift, which brings you within 40 minutes of the summit, or hike the entire way up. The trail is well-maintained, with some steep sections, particularly as you approach the summit. Chains are installed in steeper areas to assist hikers.

At the summit, you’ll find a mountain hut, where you can stay overnight, and boardwalks that guide visitors to various viewpoints. These viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The summit also features a small shrine and a marker indicating the mountain’s elevation. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Seto Inland Sea.

For a unique experience, many hikers choose to stay overnight at one of the mountain huts near the summit. Watching the sunrise from the peak is a breathtaking experience that’s well worth the early wake-up call.

Accessibility:

By Car:

• Parking: Free parking is available at the Minokoshi Trailhead, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended.

By Public Transport:

• From Tokushima: Take a bus to the Minokoshi area. The bus ride is about 2 hours, and it’s a short walk from the bus stop to the trailhead. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as services can be infrequent.

Accommodation:

• Mountain Huts: There are basic mountain huts near the summit that offer simple accommodations for hikers. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hiking season.

• Nearby Ryokan: Several ryokan (traditional Japanese inns) are located in the nearby towns, offering hot springs and meals for a more comfortable stay.

Season:

• The best time to hike Mt. Tsurugi is from late spring to early autumn (May to October). The trails are open year-round, but winter hikes require proper gear and experience due to snow and ice on the trails.

Points of Interest:

• Tsurugi Shrine: Near the summit, this small shrine is a spiritual spot where hikers often stop to offer a prayer.

• Chairlift: For those who prefer a shorter hike, the chairlift from the Minokoshi area is a convenient option that provides a scenic ride up the mountain.

• Mountain Huts: Spend the night in one of the huts near the summit for an early start and a chance to see the sunrise from the peak.

For advanced hikers, you can do the traverse from Tsurugi to Miune: https://miyoshi-city.jp/2021/10/10096/