
Mount Nokogiri (Nokogiriyama)
A mystical mountain near Tokyo with a giant granite Buddha, thousands of stone disciples, and breathtaking views of Tokyo Bay.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Mount Nokogiri (Nokogiriyama)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mystical mountain near Tokyo with a giant granite Buddha, thousands of stone disciples, and breathtaking views of Tokyo Bay.
"A lifetime experience at Mount Nokogiri—tough but unforgettable with stunning ocean views!"

Wear Comfortable Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Thousands of stairs and uneven paths await. Sturdy footwear is essential for exploring Mount Nokogiri.
Ropeway for Easy Access :cable_car:
The Nokogiriyama Ropeway offers a scenic and less strenuous way to reach the summit.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Buddha (Nihon-ji Daibutsu)
Nihon-ji Temple
Japan's largest seated granite Buddha, carved directly into the cliff face. A truly awe-inspiring sight.

Hyakushakuyama Kannon
Cliffs of Mount Nokogiri
A colossal 30-meter tall relief sculpture of the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, carved into the rock.

Jigoku Nozoki (Hell's Peek)
Observation Deck
A dramatic cliffside viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo Bay and Mount Fuji.

Thousand Arhat Statues
Temple Grounds
Over 1,500 stone statues of Buddha's disciples, each with unique expressions and poses.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Prepare for a Stair Workout!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Thousands of stairs and uneven paths await. Sturdy footwear is essential for exploring Mount Nokogiri.
Ropeway for Easy Access :cable_car:
The Nokogiriyama Ropeway offers a scenic and less strenuous way to reach the summit.
Arrive Before 1 PM :clock1:
To see all recommended spots, aim to arrive earlier in the day as some areas close later.
Bring Water & Snacks :water_wave:
Stay hydrated and fueled for your hike, especially during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Thousands of stairs and uneven paths await. Sturdy footwear is essential for exploring Mount Nokogiri.
Ropeway for Easy Access :cable_car:
The Nokogiriyama Ropeway offers a scenic and less strenuous way to reach the summit.
Arrive Before 1 PM :clock1:
To see all recommended spots, aim to arrive earlier in the day as some areas close later.
Bring Water & Snacks :water_wave:
Stay hydrated and fueled for your hike, especially during warmer months.
Mango Ice Cream is a Must! :ice_cream:
A popular treat recommended by visitors for all ages, perfect after a hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mount Nokogiri for its stunning natural beauty, the awe-inspiring Great Buddha, and the panoramic views of Tokyo Bay. The challenging but rewarding hike and the unique spiritual atmosphere are frequently highlighted as unforgettable experiences. Some note that the extensive stairs can be demanding, and English signage might be limited, but the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive.
"We had an amazing time at the mountain! Visiting with a family group of 5 we made it to the big buda and back up! Although it was extremely hard with the thousands of stairs, you can make it! The view is very beautiful because of the ocean! I recommend the mango ice cream for all ages! The staff can not speak very good English but, it’s still easy to get tickets! Have fun!"
Evelyn
"A lifetime experience at Mount Nokogiri!
We truly enjoyed our visit—even though it was tough at times to walk, the experience was unforgettable. There are many trail options to reach the top and enjoy the beauty of nature up close. The easiest way is via Trail 1 from the Ropeway (Sancho Station), but we chose the hardest route—Trail No. 3. Challenging, but absolutely worth it!"
Gurung Sanjeev
"It was a nice solo hike up a hill with scenic areas along the way. I went from the JR Station down on foot through the stairs upto the top and a small detour to the Big Buddha on descent. The workout was nice. Keeping in mind that it was a weekday, I was surprised to see not so few hikers. The location to the train station makes this trail very attractive."
daniel hailemariam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common route is taking the JR Uchibo Line from Tokyo Station to Hama-Kanaya Station (approx. 2 hours). From Hama-Kanaya, it's a short 10-minute walk to the base of the mountain or the ropeway station. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Yokohama to Kurihama port and then another ferry to Chiba.
Yes, there is parking available, particularly near the Nokogiriyama Ropeway station. This is a convenient option if you are driving to the mountain.
While trains are the most popular method, local buses do serve the Kyonan area. However, train access to Hama-Kanaya station is generally more straightforward for most visitors.
You have two main options: hike up via various trails (Trail 1 is the easiest, Trail 3 is the most challenging), or take the Nokogiriyama Ropeway for a quicker, scenic ascent.
From central Tokyo, expect around 1.5 to 2 hours by train to reach Hama-Kanaya station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee to access certain areas, particularly the temple grounds and the Great Buddha. The ropeway also has a separate fee for round-trip or one-way tickets.
Tickets for the ropeway and temple entrance can typically be purchased on-site. While advance booking isn't usually necessary, it's always good to check for any special circumstances or group rates.
The mountain and its attractions are generally open during daylight hours. However, specific temple areas might have slightly different operating times. It's advisable to arrive before 1 PM to ensure you have enough time to explore all the recommended spots.
Yes, there is an entrance fee to see the Great Buddha and other statues within the Nihon-ji Temple complex.
While staff may not speak fluent English, visitors report that purchasing tickets is generally easy.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Mount Nokogiri is famous for the Great Buddha, the Hyakushakuyama Kannon, over 1,500 Arhat statues, and the Jigoku Nozoki observation deck with stunning views.
Yes, families can visit, but be prepared for many stairs. The ropeway makes it more accessible, and the mango ice cream is a hit with kids.
A half-day to a full-day trip is recommended to fully explore the mountain, especially if you plan to hike and visit all the key sites.
It's a moderate hike with many stairs and inclines. The ropeway offers an alternative to strenuous climbing.
Yes, on clear days, you can get breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and Tokyo Bay from the Jigoku Nozoki observation deck.
📸 📸 Photography
The Great Buddha, the Arhat statues, the Jigoku Nozoki viewpoint, and the panoramic views of Tokyo Bay are prime photography locations.
Absolutely! The dramatic statues and sweeping landscapes are very photogenic. Many visitors share stunning shots taken with their phones.
Morning light can be beautiful for the statues, while late afternoon offers dramatic skies for the bay views. Consider the weather for Mount Fuji visibility.
Generally, photography is allowed in most areas. However, always be respectful of the sacred nature of the temple grounds.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and around religious sites to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for a lot of stairs, which can be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is crucial. The mango ice cream is a highly recommended treat that kids (and adults!) will love after exploring.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
Solo hikers often appreciate the accessibility from Tokyo and the well-marked paths. It's a place where you can easily spend several hours exploring the statues, viewpoints, and the mountain's natural beauty without feeling rushed.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and capture clearer shots. The mist that sometimes shrouds the mountain can add an ethereal quality to your photographs, creating a truly mystical atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Heart: Nihon-ji Temple
The most striking feature is the Great Buddha (Nihon-ji Daibutsu), a colossal granite statue carved directly into the cliff face. Completed in 1966, it stands at 31 meters tall and is a testament to incredible craftsmanship and devotion. Nearby, the Hyakushakuyama Kannon offers another awe-inspiring sight, a 30-meter relief sculpture honoring peace.
Beyond these monumental figures, the mountain is dotted with over 1,500 Arhat statues, each depicting a disciple of Buddha with unique expressions. Wandering among these stone figures feels like stepping into another realm, a truly unique spiritual and artistic experience.
Navigating the Trails and Views
There are several trails, with Trail 1 being the most accessible from the ropeway station, leading to the Great Buddha and other key sites. For a more challenging adventure, Trail 3 offers a steeper climb and a more immersive nature experience. Regardless of the path chosen, comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the numerous stairs and uneven terrain.
The reward for your efforts is the spectacular scenery. The Jigoku Nozoki (Hell's Peek) observation deck provides unparalleled panoramic views of Tokyo Bay and, on clear days, Mount Fuji. The blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and breathtaking vistas makes Mount Nokogiri a must-visit destination.
A Day Trip Gem from Tokyo
Visitors appreciate that the mountain offers a diverse range of experiences within a single visit: a ferry ride across Tokyo Bay, a nature hike, historical temple sites, impressive Buddhist sculptures, and stunning coastal views. This variety makes it an engaging destination for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.
While it can get busy, especially on weekends, many find that arriving early or visiting on a weekday significantly enhances the experience, allowing for a more peaceful exploration of this unique mountain landscape.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit