Mount Tennōzan

Mount Tennōzan is a peak of about 270 meters in the narrow plain between Kyoto and Osaka, offering views across both metropolitan regions from its summit. The hiking route passes through temple grounds and reaches the top in roughly forty minutes from the nearby station.

The Battle of Yamazaki took place here in 1582, when Toyotomi Hideyoshi defeated Akechi Mitsuhide and avenged Oda Nobunaga's death. This clash marked a turning point in Japanese military history and forever linked the mountain to political power.

The mountain hosts a shrine honoring Gozutennō and draws visitors seeking to experience the spiritual connection between the natural landscape and religious practices. Locals and travelers alike visit to reflect on the place's deep significance in Japanese history and belief.

The hike starts at JR Yamazaki Station and takes roughly forty minutes to reach the summit. Wear sturdy shoes as the path becomes steep in sections and conditions change with the seasons.

At the Aokibadani lookout point, ceramic panels display scenes from the Battle of Yamazaki using classical Japanese artistic techniques. These artworks tell the story of the historical event in a way that brings the past to life for visitors.

Location: Oyamazaki

Elevation above the sea: 270 m

GPS coordinates: 34.90185,135.67630

Latest update: December 17, 2025 08:45