Sacred Mount Daisen in Japan’s tranquil Tottori prefecture offers peace, quiet and amazing vistas
With amazing views, invigorating walks, unspoilt beech forests and pristine shrines, it’s easy to see why Mt Daisen is considered Japan’s third most magnificent summit
There were moments when it seemed we had the entire mountain to ourselves. The crisp, clean air on Mount Daisen, in Tottori, Japan’s least populated prefecture, was heady and the 360 degrees of serene views made it easy to leave our cares and clutter far below.
I travelled to Japan from my Singapore home to meet my son Damien, who flew in from university in Canada. A brief sojourn in Mount Daisen was the perfect retreat: it is off the beaten track, and offers peace and rejuvenation.
Climbing on this mountain, worshipped as a god, was banned until 1889. As a result, Mt Daisen’s extensive beech forests are still pristine and its old, almost bare temples, authentic. The shrines located towards the top are secluded, making the trek up well worth the effort.
Part of a designated National Park in Tottori, despite its relatively diminutive stature, Mt Daisen is ranked among the best 100 mountains in Japan. Fondly called “Hoki-Fuji ” or “Mt Fuji in Tottori” by locals, it resembles the cone of Mt Fuji, when viewed from the west. The north, south and east sides in contrast, are rugged with steep cliffs. According to a distinguished local ranking, it is Japan’s third most magnificent summit after Mt Fuji and Mt Yari (Yarigatake).