Mount Onigajo, Mountain summit in Uwajima, Japan.
Mount Onigajo is a mountain summit in Ehime Prefecture that rises to 1,151 meters, with forest-covered slopes cut by rocky trails that lead through dense woodland. Multiple hiking routes connect different starting points around the region, offering walkers various ways to approach the peak.
The mountain is connected to ancient Japanese folklore that tells of Onihonmaru, a demon said to have lived in the rocky terrain centuries ago. These stories have been passed down through generations and continue to shape how people view and experience the place today.
The mountain draws visitors who seek out the small shrines tucked into the forested slopes, which serve as quiet places for reflection and connection to the land. These sacred sites remain important waypoints along the hiking routes where people pause to offer quiet respect.
Plan for a full hiking circuit of about nine to ten hours, and wear sturdy boots with good grip since rocky sections are common throughout the trails. Starting early in the day gives you plenty of daylight and allows for a comfortable pace without rushing.
Winter snow transforms the slopes into an unexpected northern landscape, creating a stark contrast to the subtropical area below on warmer days. This surprising seasonal shift catches many visitors off guard who are unprepared for the cold conditions at higher elevations.
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