Yamato Sanzan, Mountain triad in Kashihara, Japan.
Yamato Sanzan is a group of three peaks in the Nara Basin, consisting of Mount Unebi at 199 meters, Mount Miminashi at 140 meters, and Mount Amanokagu at 152 meters. These distinct summits rise visibly from the surrounding flatland, forming a recognizable landmark.
The mountain group marked the natural boundary of Fujiwara-kyo, Japan's first grid-planned capital, established in 694 during the Asuka period. This geographic importance made the mountains a key reference point for early Japanese civilization.
The three peaks feature in the ancient poetry collection Manyoshu and embody mythological deities in local tradition. Visitors can still sense the connection between these landforms and the stories that have shaped this region for generations.
The area is accessible through multiple walking trails connecting to nearby shrines and archaeological sites. Visitors should know that routes vary in difficulty and different starting points serve different destinations.
Mount Amanokagu contains natural deposits of red and white clay that were used in ancient ceremonial pottery. The traces of these deposits remain visible on the mountain's slopes, telling of a long craft tradition.
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