Mount Misen, Sacred mountain and natural monument in Hatsukaichi, Japan.
Mount Misen rises 535 meters above Miyajima Island, featuring igneous rock formations, ancient primeval forests protected by Hiroshima Prefecture authorities, and panoramic views over the Seto Inland Sea accessible via aerial tramway.
Mount Misen has served as an important religious site since 806 AD when Buddhist monk Kūkai visited the area, establishing its sacred status that has attracted pilgrims and spiritual practitioners for over 1,200 years.
The mountain houses the eternal flame Kiezu-no-hi, lit by Kobo Daishi and still burning today, along with the Seven Wonders including mysterious phenomena like Kanman-iwa rock that fills and empties with sea tides despite its inland location.
Visitors can reach the summit through several hiking trails taking 1.5 to 2 hours, or use the Miyajima Ropeway for easier access, with basic facilities including restrooms and a small café available near the cable car station.
The mountain features supernatural legends including nighttime sounds of wooden clappers attributed to a tengu goblin warning visitors of mystical presences, reinforcing its status as a sacred site where natural and spiritual worlds intersect.
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