This is one of my favorite day hikes offering panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, Hakone, and Sagami Bay. It is popular only among hikers and less crowded with tourists, making it a peaceful escape with impressive viewpoints and cultural landmarks.

Trailhead: Yatsubi Pass

Accessibility & How to Get to the Trailhead:

• By Car:
  Drive directly to the Bodaitoge parking lot in Hadano, Kanagawa. The parking lot includes public restrooms, and the trail entrance is nearby.

• By Public Transport:

  • Take the Odakyu Line to Hadano Station, then the No. 21 bus to Yabitsutoge (50 min). From Yabitsutoge, it’s a 20-minute walk to the trail start at Fujimibashi; freshen up at Gomayashiki Spring on the way.

Hike Details:

• Distance: Approx. 6 km (round trip)

• Duration: 3-4 hours (round trip)

• Elevation Gain: About 600 meters

• Difficulty: Beginner

General Information & Summary:

The hike to Sannoto begins with a short walk through dense forest. About 30 minutes in, the trees thin out, providing beautiful views of Mt. Oyama and Sagami Bay, with the distant Boso Peninsula visible on clear days. The first major point on the trail is Mt. Ninoto, where benches offer a rest spot with stunning views of Mt. Fuji.

From Ninoto, the trail follows the ridgeline to Mt. Sannoto. This segment is a half-kilometer, leading to a plateau with panoramic views and a public toilet (open April to September). Don’t miss the northern viewpoint near the Jizo statue, offering an unobstructed vista of the Omote-One Ridge Trail leading to the Tanzawa mountains.

For those interested in a side trek, Mt. Karasuo is a nearby peak accessible by a 30-40 minute round trip from Sannoto. This peak also has year-round restrooms and adds a rewarding bonus to your hike.

The most straightforward way back is to retrace your steps, although an alternative route near Ninoto leads through the forest and returns to Bodaitoge. This path includes an intriguing rocky “footprint” feature tied to Yamato Takeru folklore.