Japan's Underrated Landmark | Mount Omuro Travel

Japan's Underrated Landmark | Mount Omuro Travel

One of Japan's most beautiful natural landmarks is Mount Omuro, also known as Omuro-yama, located in Ito City on the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture.

Here's the story behind this mountain and the secret to its unique appearance:

1. Why does it look so green and perfectly uniform?

The secret to its vibrant green color and lack of trees lies in an annual tradition called "Yamayaki," a ritual of "burning the mountain" practiced for over 700 years. Every February, local residents set fire to dry grass to cleanse the mountain, kill pests, and encourage new grass growth in the spring, thus maintaining its streamlined shape resembling an "upturned rice bowl."

2. Its Geological Nature

Extinct Volcano: This is an extinct, cone-shaped volcano formed by an eruption that occurred approximately 4,000 years ago.

Elevation and Shape: It rises approximately 580 meters above sea level, and its summit features a circular volcanic crater with a diameter of up to 300 meters.

3. Visitor Experience

Climbing Prohibited: To protect its soil and vegetation, climbing the mountain on foot is prohibited. Visitors use the chairlift to reach the summit.

Hiking Around the Crater: Visitors can hike a path approximately 1 km long around the crater rim, offering stunning panoramic views of the ocean and Mount Fuji on clear days.

Archery Inside the Volcano: A curious activity, the crater floor is currently used as an archery range.

4. Sacred Significance

The mountain is designated a National Natural Monument in Japan and is considered sacred. Historical Buddha statues and a small shrine can be found along the summit walking trail.