Daisen

Daisen is a stratovolcano in Tottori Prefecture, rising to 1729 meters (5672 feet) as the tallest summit in the Chugoku region. The cone stretches 40 kilometers (25 miles) from east to west and shows steep flanks rising above forested valleys.

Eruptions formed this volcano around 50,000 years ago and ended roughly 10,000 years ago inside the caldera of an older mountain. A major eruption phase scattered ash across much of Japan, leaving traces as far as the northeastern region.

The name connects to worship practices and the belief that sacred forces dwell here, attracting pilgrims for centuries. Visitors today follow trails leading to shrines and springs where dark volcanic rock appears beneath moss-covered steps, and forest silence wraps around wooden gates and stone lanterns.

A trail from the temple reaches Misen summit at 1709 meters (5607 feet) in roughly three hours, while the highest point remains off-limits. The climb through forest shows how vegetation changes with altitude, and on clear days views extend across the surrounding mountains.

On the steep northern slopes, snow often lingers until late spring, creating an unusual backdrop above green valleys. The shape from certain angles resembles other well-known cone volcanoes, earning it a special place in regional comparisons.