首切峠, Mountain pass in Takamatsu, Japan.
Shoukiri Pass, also written as 首切峠, is a mountain pass in Kagawa Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, Japan, set among wooded slopes and narrow mountain valleys. Several hiking trails cross through the pass, linking rural settlements on either side of the ridge.
The pass has been used for centuries as a crossing between villages on either side of the mountains, serving local traffic across Kagawa. Over time it shifted from a working route to a path used mainly by hikers and people exploring the surrounding hills.
The name Shoukiri translates roughly to "head-cutting pass" in Japanese, pointing to old legends about battles or executions that once took place along this route. Walkers on the path today can still sense how the dense forest and the remoteness of the spot give those stories a tangible presence.
The pass can be reached by car from Takamatsu along regional roads, and some parking is available near the trailheads. The trails wind through dense forest, so solid footwear and a layer of warm clothing are a good idea since conditions on the ridge can change quickly.
Despite being a modest point on the map, this pass carries one of the most striking names among the mountain passes of Shikoku, which itself draws curious visitors to look into its past. The name alone has made it a talking point among hikers who explore the lesser-traveled ridges of Kagawa.
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