Mount Nokogiri (Nokogiriyama)
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Mount Nokogiri (Nokogiriyama)

4.3
·1k reviews·Kyonan, Japan

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Mount Nokogiri (Nokogiriyama)

Mount Nokogiri (Nokogiriyama)

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.3
(1k reviews)

"A lifetime experience at Mount Nokogiri—tough but unforgettable with stunning ocean views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Buddha (Nihon-ji Daibutsu)

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

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)

Jigoku Nozoki (Hell's Peek)

Observation Deck

A dramatic cliffside viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo Bay and Mount Fuji.

Thousand Arhat Statues

Thousand Arhat Statues

Temple Grounds

Over 1,500 stone statues of Buddha's disciples, each with unique expressions and poses.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Best Views

Mount Nokogiri's weather can be unpredictable. Aim for clear days to maximize views of Tokyo Bay and Mount Fuji. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, offering a more serene experience. Arrive early to explore the numerous statues and trails without feeling rushed.

Prepare for a Stair Workout!

Many visitors highlight the extensive stairs and inclines. While the ropeway offers an easier ascent, exploring the mountain's full beauty involves significant walking and climbing. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must for navigating the trails and enjoying the panoramic vistas.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Clear Weather Days
Why
Best views of Fuji & Bay
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon (before 1 PM)
Why
See all spots before closing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Le Mont Nokogiri - Un Japon Ancien à 2h de Tokyo 🔥🇯🇵 #tips #pourtoi #astuce #view #voyage #help #statue #temple #tokyo #japaneseculture #japanese #japon #japan #travel #aventure #lieu #visite #lifeinjapan
@quentinnsan
5K likes • 48.4K 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.

Next ? #fypシ゚ #mtnokogiri #hiddengemjapan #chiba #tokyo
@anatanohikari
4.1K likes • 79.4K views
📍Mount Nokogiri, Chiba Un posto mistico vicino a Tokyo, sconosciuto ai più. A solo un’ora e mezza dalla città, il Monte Nokogiri è una montagna di granito che offre un’esperienza unica tra natura, storia e spiritualità. Poco conosciuto dai turisti, custodisce uno dei Buddha scolpiti nella roccia più grandi del Giappone, sentieri che attraversano la foresta e il celebre Jigoku Nozoki, una piattafo...
tokyo_mainichi
109 likes • 2.2K views

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.

キャプション If you’re heading to Chiba prefecture, make sure to visit Mount Nokogiri 🇯🇵 Mount Nokogiri is known for its unique shape, resembling the teeth of a saw. Enjoy a moment where nature and history blend together, accompanied by breathtaking views of Tokyo Bay and Mount Fuji. 📍Address    Nokogiriyama, Kyonan Town, Awa District, Chiba Prefecture. 🕛Opening Hours 9:00-16:00 📞Phone Number 0470-5...
ryokanbook_tw
139 likes • 7.9K views

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

4.3
(1k reviews)

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

Great Buddha statue
Panoramic bay views
Challenging hike

What People Dislike

Many stairs
Limited English

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).TikTokInstagram From Hama-Kanaya, it's a short 10-minute walk to the base of the mountain or the ropeway station.Instagram Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Yokohama to Kurihama port and then another ferry to Chiba.Instagram

Yes, there is parking available, particularly near the Nokogiriyama Ropeway station. This is a convenient option if you are driving to the mountain.Reddit

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),Reddit or take the Nokogiriyama Ropeway for a quicker, scenic ascent.TikTokInstagram

From central Tokyo, expect around 1.5 to 2 hours by train to reach Hama-Kanaya station.TikTokInstagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is an entrance fee to access certain areas, particularly the temple grounds and the Great Buddha.Reddit 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.Reddit

Yes, there is an entrance fee to see the Great Buddha and other statues within the Nihon-ji Temple complex.Reddit

While staff may not speak fluent English, visitors report that purchasing tickets is generally easy.Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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.TikTokInstagram

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.InstagramReddit

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.Reddit

It's a moderate hike with many stairs and inclines. The ropeway offers an alternative to strenuous climbing.TikTokReddit

Yes, on clear days, you can get breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and Tokyo Bay from the Jigoku Nozoki observation deck.Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The Great Buddha, the Arhat statues, the Jigoku Nozoki viewpoint, and the panoramic views of Tokyo Bay are prime photography locations.Instagram

Absolutely! The dramatic statues and sweeping landscapes are very photogenic. Many visitors share stunning shots taken with their phones.TikTokInstagram

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

Mount Nokogiri can be a fun family outing, but it requires some planning. The Nokogiriyama Ropeway is a great way to get to the top without a strenuous hike, offering exciting views for children.TikTok Once at the top, the Great Buddha and the Arhat statues are fascinating for kids to see.TikTok

Be prepared for a lot of stairs, which can be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.InstagramReddit 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.Reddit

🚶 Solo Adventurers

Mount Nokogiri is an excellent destination for solo travelers looking for a mix of nature, history, and a good workout. The trails offer a chance for introspection and enjoying the scenery at your own pace.Reddit The Nihon-ji Temple complex provides a rich cultural experience, and the Jigoku Nozoki viewpoint offers a moment of quiet contemplation with stunning vistas.

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.Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Mount Nokogiri is a treasure trove of unique subjects. The Great Buddha and the Arhat statues offer incredible opportunities for capturing dramatic and spiritual imagery.TikTokInstagram The Jigoku Nozoki viewpoint provides sweeping panoramic shots of Tokyo Bay and the surrounding landscape, especially beautiful during golden hour.

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.TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Spiritual Heart: Nihon-ji Temple

Mount Nokogiri is home to Nihon-ji Temple, one of the oldest and most significant temples in the Chiba Prefecture. Founded in 710 AD, it was once a vast complex with over 100 sub-temples. Today, visitors can still feel the profound history and spiritual atmosphere as they explore its grounds.

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.TikTok Nearby, the Hyakushakuyama Kannon offers another awe-inspiring sight, a 30-meter relief sculpture honoring peace.Instagram

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.TikTok

Navigating the Trails and Views

Mount Nokogiri, meaning 'Saw Mountain' due to its jagged peaks, offers a rewarding hiking experience. While the Nokogiriyama Ropeway provides a convenient and scenic ascent to the summit area, many visitors opt to explore the mountain's trails on foot.TikTokInstagram

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.Reddit Regardless of the path chosen, comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the numerous stairs and uneven terrain.InstagramReddit

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.Instagram+1 The blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and breathtaking vistas makes Mount Nokogiri a must-visit destination.

A Day Trip Gem from Tokyo

Mount Nokogiri is frequently highlighted as an ideal day trip from Tokyo, offering a refreshing escape from the bustling city.TikTokInstagram+1 The journey itself is part of the adventure, often involving a scenic train ride followed by a short walk or ferry crossing.TikTokInstagram

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.Instagram This variety makes it an engaging destination for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.Reddit

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.Reddit

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