Mount Daishi Kinosaki
Ascend Mount Daishi for breathtaking panoramic views of Kinosaki Onsen town and the Sea of Japan via a scenic ropeway or an easy hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Mount Daishi Kinosaki
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend Mount Daishi for breathtaking panoramic views of Kinosaki Onsen town and the Sea of Japan via a scenic ropeway or an easy hike.
"The view from the tram coming down Kinosaki Onsen town’s Mount Daishi is the highlight of your trip."
Confirm Trail Safety
Always check for bear activity at the ropeway station before hiking to the top. :warning:
Ropeway for Kids
The cable car ride is a hit with children, offering a fun ascent and descent. :smiley:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Views from the Summit
Mount Daishi Summit
Breathtaking vistas of Kinosaki Onsen town, the surrounding mountains, and the Sea of Japan await.
Onsenji Temple
Mount Daishi
Explore this ancient temple, founded in 738, offering a glimpse into spiritual history amidst natural beauty.
Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway
Base of Mount Daishi
Enjoy a scenic cable car ride up the mountain, a thrilling experience for all ages with incredible views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Bear Activity Before Hiking
Ropeway vs. Hiking: Choose Your Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Trail Safety
Always check for bear activity at the ropeway station before hiking to the top. :warning:
Ropeway for Kids
The cable car ride is a hit with children, offering a fun ascent and descent. :smiley:
Goshuin Stamps
Get your goshuin stamps at Onsenji Temple; check opening days as they can be closed. :memo:
Hydration is Key
Summer visits can be very hot, so bring plenty of water for your climb. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Trail Safety
Always check for bear activity at the ropeway station before hiking to the top. :warning:
Ropeway for Kids
The cable car ride is a hit with children, offering a fun ascent and descent. :smiley:
Goshuin Stamps
Get your goshuin stamps at Onsenji Temple; check opening days as they can be closed. :memo:
Hydration is Key
Summer visits can be very hot, so bring plenty of water for your climb. :droplet:
Kawarake Nage
Try throwing three small clay discs (Kawarake Nage) at the summit for good luck. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Mount Daishi for its absolutely stunning panoramic views of Kinosaki Onsen town and the Sea of Japan, accessible via a fun ropeway ride or an easy hike. The historical Onsenji Temple adds a cultural dimension, though some caution is advised regarding potential bear sightings and checking temple opening days for souvenirs.
"The hike is about 20-30mins, with beautiful views.
Little steep but very easy hike.
There has been bear sighting some time ago (lot of signs with "DONT WALK TO THE TOP") so it's better to ask at the ropeway station if it's okay to walk up. They told me it was okay and I only saw two little lizards on the trail, but do ask before you go.
The best view is on top of the ropeway station where you can see the sea of Japan.
On top there's a little unattended shrine, but goshuin stamps are sold at onsenji (closed on the Thursday when I went, but Friday was opened)
The way down was chill; an older local lady outrun me on the way"
Eliška Leissnerová
"Even with all of the snow on the trails the hike up from the town to the top was still magical. Winding through the trees, past the mall Jizo statues, and crossing small wooden bridges; you will find yourself pleasantly surprised by this hike. Total time from the bottom to the top was about 25min at a moderate pace."
Matthew Chen
"Great views and an excellent trail going down the mountain if you don’t want to take the ropeway. There is a lovely cafe at the top as well."
Josh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Mount Daishi by taking the Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway from the base of the mountain, or by hiking up. The ropeway offers a scenic journey with spectacular views over the town and the Sea of Japan. 
Yes, it's possible to walk up Mount Daishi. The hike is described as a little steep but very easy, taking about 20-30 minutes at a moderate pace. Some trails wind through trees and past Jizo statues.
Indeed, from Mount Daishi, it's possible to continue hiking to Mount Kuruhi for those seeking a longer trek.
The best way depends on your preference. The ropeway is a fun and scenic option, especially for families, while hiking offers a more active experience.
Mount Daishi is located within Kinosaki Onsen town, which is accessible by train. The ropeway station is a short walk from the town's main attractions and onsen facilities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You will need a ticket for the Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway if you choose to ascend via cable car. Hiking up the mountain itself is generally free.
Operating hours for the ropeway can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While the temple grounds are generally accessible, there might be specific areas or activities within Onsenji Temple that incur a small fee. It's best to check on-site for any charges.
Goshuin stamps are typically sold at Onsenji Temple, not directly at the summit of Mount Daishi. Be aware that the temple may be closed on certain days, like Thursdays.
Information on discounts for the ropeway, such as for groups or children, is usually available on their official website or can be inquired about at the ticket counter.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the top, you can enjoy spectacular scenic views of Kinosaki Onsen town and the Sea of Japan, visit the ancient Onsenji Temple, and try throwing Kawarake Nage (clay discs). There's also a cafe with a terrace.
The views are described as amazing, offering a panoramic perspective of the mountains, the town, and the distant Sea of Japan. The ropeway ride itself also provides stunning vistas.
Yes, families with children often enjoy the ropeway ride and the relatively easy hike. The views and the temple offer engaging experiences for younger visitors.
Yes, there is a cafe at the top of Mount Daishi with a terrace offering food, drinks, and ice cream, all while enjoying the great views.
Kawarake Nage are small clay discs that visitors can throw at the summit of Mount Daishi, often done for good luck.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers the most iconic photo opportunities with panoramic views of Kinosaki Onsen town and the Sea of Japan. The ropeway journey also provides excellent vantage points.
While sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light, the primary draw is the daytime panoramic view. Check ropeway operating hours if planning for early morning or late evening photography.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the expansive landscapes. A standard zoom lens will also be versatile. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing the sea and sky. :camerawithflash:
Generally, photography is allowed in most outdoor areas of temples, but it's always respectful to check for any specific signage regarding interior photography or sensitive areas.
Yes, you can take photos from the ropeway. The windows offer clear views, and the ascent provides a unique perspective of the town and surrounding nature.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The hike up is also manageable for families, described as easy and taking only about 20-30 minutes.
🚶♀️ Active Travelers & Hikers
The trail offers a more intimate connection with the natural environment compared to the ropeway. Once at the top, you're rewarded with the same breathtaking panoramic views of Kinosaki Onsen town and the Sea of Japan.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway itself provides a unique perspective for photography during the ascent and descent, capturing the town's unique layout from above. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery effectively. A polarizing filter can also enhance the colors of the sky and sea.
While daytime offers the most iconic views, early morning or late afternoon light can add a beautiful quality to your shots, though you'll need to be mindful of the ropeway's operating hours. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the historic Onsenji Temple and the traditional elements like the Jizo statues along the hiking trails. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Kinosaki Onsen Ropeway Experience
+1 The journey is particularly enjoyable for families, with children often loving the cable car experience. The ropeway operates throughout the day, making it accessible for various itineraries. While hiking is an option, the ropeway ensures that everyone, regardless of physical fitness, can experience the breathtaking views.
At the top, the ropeway station serves as a gateway to further exploration. You can immediately access viewpoints, the Onsenji Temple, and the cafe.
Hiking Mount Daishi: A Traveler's Perspective
A significant consideration for hikers is the potential for bear sightings. Signs have been posted in the past advising against walking to the top, so it's crucial to ask at the ropeway station if it's safe to proceed before your hike.
The reward for the hike is the same stunning view as the ropeway offers: a beautiful panorama of the mountains, the town, and the Sea of Japan.
Onsenji Temple and Cultural Insights
Visiting the temple offers a peaceful respite and a glimpse into the region's long-standing traditions. While the temple itself is a point of interest, it also serves as a hub for cultural practices, such as obtaining goshuin stamps. It's important to note that the availability of goshuin stamps can be limited. Travelers have reported that Onsenji Temple may be closed on certain days, such as Thursdays, but open on Fridays.
Beyond the temple and goshuin, the summit area provides opportunities for other traditional activities. Visitors can try Kawarake Nage, which involves throwing three small clay discs, often done for good luck.
These elements combine to make a visit to Mount Daishi more than just about the views; it's also an immersion into local history and customs.
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