Mount Nokogiri - Chiba, Japan
This was one of the most memorable hikes I’ve done in Japan. Mt. Nokogiri was once a quarry and is also home to Nihon-ji Temple at the summit. There are three ways up—climbing, ropeway, or by car. Since the ropeway was closed for maintenance and I didn’t have a car, I decided to hike.
Starting from the nearest train station, I chose to go up the historic Sharikimichi trail, once used by women carrying heavy rocks down from the quarry three times a day. The old cart wheel marks are still visible, and I couldn’t help but admire the effort of those women.
Along the way, I reached a viewpoint overlooking Tokyo Bay, though space was limited with many hikers resting there, the panoramic view was stunning. The summit of Mt. Nokogiri (330m) itself didn’t offer views, so I continued to Nihon-ji Temple after taking a few pictures at the summit marker.
The climb to Nihon-ji Temple was steep, but the massive stone Buddha and Kannon carvings in the quarry walls were breathtaking and worth the entrance fee. The temple grounds had many steps, making it a workout on its own as you go about the temple grounds.
On the way down via the Kanto-Fureainomichi trail, the steep stone steps and sandy slope were slippery, just as the temple staff had warned. Still, I made it down safely and in time for my train. Overall, it was a fascinating and rewarding hike.
Route Overview
Distance: 9.77 km out & back (Hama-Kanaya Station)
Total elevation gain: 772 m
Duration: 3 hr 18 min (with breaks 3 hr 30 min)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Peak: Mt Nokogiri 鋸山 330m
Cost Breakdown
Train: Kimitsu Station → Hama-Kanaya Station — ¥510
Entrance Fee: Nihon-ji Temple — ¥700
