Mount Yasuman, Sacred mountain summit in Hirado, Japan
Mount Yasuman is a 530-meter peak in Hirado with a flattened summit surrounded by steep slopes composed of volcanic rock and tuff. The slopes are covered in evergreen forest that provides natural cover across most of the mountain's terrain.
The mountain served as a center for mountain worship since ancient times, with the Hakusan Shrine established near the summit in 718. This made the area an important pilgrimage site in the region.
Hidden Christians used stone monuments and natural rock shrines on the slopes as places of quiet worship during times of religious persecution. These practices show how people adapted the natural features of the land for their personal faith and spiritual needs.
The hiking trail starts at Yamano-Iriguchi bus stop about 20 minutes from central Hirado. Parking and basic facilities are available at the trailhead.
The mountain functions as a water source for Hirado City through the Minotsubo River Dam, serving practical needs of residents today. This dual role as both a sacred site and essential utility shows how the landscape meets both spiritual and everyday demands.
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