The annual climbing season has officially begun on one of Japan's most unusual peaks—Mount Hiyoriyama. This mountain is so small that reaching its summit takes only six steps.
The annual climbing season has officially begun on one of Japan's most unusual peaks—Mount Hiyoriyama. This mountain is so small that reaching its summit takes only six steps.
Located in the Miyagino district of Sendai city, the mountain was opened to hikers on July 5th during a traditional opening ceremony. This annual event marks the start of the climbing season. Approximately 150 people attended the celebration this year before heading to the start of the route.
Although participants required about an hour to walk from the ceremony venue to the mountain itself, the ascent took only a few seconds. Reports indicate that the only path to the summit can be covered in approximately six steps, making it one of the fastest mountain ascents in the world.
Since 2014, Mount Hiyoriyama has been officially recognized as Japan's lowest mountain after the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan recorded its height at just three meters. This figure surpassed the previous record holder, Mount Tempo in Osaka, which stands at 4.53 meters.
Despite its tiny size, Mount Hiyoriyama retains the status of a recognized mountain, not a hill. The name has been used for centuries, and the Japanese word 'yama,' meaning 'mountain,' remains part of its historical identity.
The mountain was previously about twice as high but lost around three meters in elevation following the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Tohoku in 2011. Today, the annual climbing ceremony serves as both a public tradition and a light entertainment attraction, drawing visitors from all over Japan.
For travelers wishing to experience one of the country's most unique attractions, Mount Hiyoriyama offers a summit accessible to almost everyone. The nearest station is Rikuzen-Takasago on the Senseki line, from which it takes about 65 minutes to walk to the start of the route.