Nokogiriyama: A hidden gem of natural beauty and ancient history near Tokyo

Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, nature lover or history buff, Nokogiriyama is a great hidden gem located just over 3 hours from Tokyo by train (or approximately 1.5 hours by car).

Accessible to the top by hiking up or a scenic cable car ride, this mountain offers a unique blend of natural beauty and history. Once an important stone quarry from the Edo Period (1603 – 1868), the mountain has strikingly jagged right-angled cliffs. From the summit, you can enjoy stunning views of Tokyo Bay and even Mt. Fuji on clear days.

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File ID 191537626 | © Kuremo | Dreamstime.com

History buffs will not want to miss Nihon-ji Temple, located at the southern base and dating back over 1,300 years. In addition to 500 small statues of various deities dotted around the temple grounds, you will find one of Japan’s largest Buddhas reaching a height of 31 meters and impressively carved into the granite of the mountainside.

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File ID 185485354 | © Manuelascanio | Dreamstime.com

Nokogiriyama: https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/2187/

Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Li36cKj9eNqKD1us7