Mt. Kinpu

Located in the Okuchichibu mountain range on the boundary of Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures, Mt. Kinpu is classified as one of the 100 famous mountains in Japan, standing at 2599m tall, and has long been revered as a sacred place for mountain worship. According to the legend, Japanese legendary prince Yamato Takeru climbed Mt. Kinpu during his eastern expedition, and sensing the mountain's spiritual energy, built a shrine at the summit at the foot of the Gojo rocks; the impressive boulder formation is now known as the main symbol of the mountain. The hike up Mt. Kinpu through lush forests and rocky paths provides the perfect escape from the unforgiving summer heat and humidity, and is perfectly suitable for experienced hikers and beginners alike. The summit can be reached in about 2 hours and a half and boasts a sensational 360° view of the Southern Alps, Mt. Fuji, Mt. Asama and the Yatsugatake mountains.