Magatama Mountain

Approximately 100,000 square meters (about 7 Tokyo Domes) of the slopes of Mt. Nokogiri have become the grounds of Japan Temple, where you can hike and explore the spots within the temple grounds. The grounds are mainly divided into the "summit area," "arhat area," "Great Buddha Square," "mid-slope area," and "main approach area," and there are many must-see spots, including the peek into hell, Japan's largest Buddha, the Japan Temple bell, a designated important cultural property, and 1,553 stone statues of arhats, each with a different face. The paths within the grounds are paved, but there are many stairs and slopes as it is a mountain trail, making it a great exercise to explore the vast entire area! Be sure to prepare well, including comfortable clothing and shoes for walking, drinks, and measures to combat the heat in the summer.

Speaking of Mt. Nokogiri, it's the breathtaking view from the mountaintop! From the "Jigoku-nozoki" and "Summit Observation Deck" in the mountaintop area, on a clear day, you can overlook Mt. Fuji floating in Tokyo Bay and the views of the Izu Peninsula. The magnificent view from the top, reached by persevering along the mountain path, is exceptional! When visiting the "Jigoku-nozoki," it's recommended to go with two or more people. Splitting up, from the side of the summit observation deck in front, you can take thrilling photos standing over the hellish cliff at your feet.

At Mt. Jogasaki, there is a history of stone quarrying for building materials that has been thriving since the Edo period, and the remains of those quarries are said to resemble the world of the Studio Ghibli film "Castle in the Sky." It's also known as the "Laputa Wall," and the magnificent vertical wall of stone is breathtaking! Beyond the Laputa Wall, you can see the giant "Hyakushaku Kannon" statue, about 30 meters tall, carved into the wall. It has been beloved for a long time as the main deity that protects the safety of transportation by sea, air, and land, so please come and visit.

At the Daibutsu Square, there is the "Yakushi Rurikou Nyorai," the largest stone Buddha statue in Japan, standing at an impressive height of 31 meters. This is also one of the popular spots at Nihon-ji Temple! Being twice the size of the famous Kamakura Daibutsu, you can feel its tremendous power when looking up close. Additionally, next to the Great Buddha statue, there is the "Onegai Jizo-Son" enshrined. By purchasing a small Jizo statue for around 500 yen, writing your name on it, and dedicating it while making a wish, it is said that your wish will come true!

There are three ways to climb Mt. Nokogiri: ① hiking, ② taking the ropeway, or ③ driving. Among them, the recommended method is taking the ropeway! You can reach the mountaintop station in just 4 minutes and enjoy an aerial stroll while admiring the magnificent view of Mt. Nokogiri from the 360-degree glass gondola. If you choose to hike, you can select from five different hiking courses, and Mt. Nokogiri is relatively easy to climb even for beginners, with tourist spots scattered throughout the course. You can challenge yourself by walking to each spot on the way up and then take the ropeway back down, or vice versa. It's a good idea to combine hiking and descending methods to determine the course that suits you best!

After a long hike or stroll around the shrine grounds, take a break at the "Summit Observation Restaurant" located just off the ropeway summit station! In addition to freshly baked and fragrant rice cakes and coffee, there are also plenty of local specialties such as "Biwa Curry" made with locally produced loquat and "Hell Ice" with a striking black appearance, as well as "Kajime Ramen" made with a type of seaweed. You can enjoy local cuisine while looking out the window at the natural scenery. There is also a gift shop, but if you want to buy souvenirs, it's best to do so at the ropeway foot station at the bottom of the mountain.

The Kinuya district at the foot of Mt. Nokogiri has been certified as Chiba Prefecture's first "Lovers' Sanctuary," making it a recommended spot for romantic dates where you can enjoy the beautiful sunset sinking into the sea. Along the coast, there is a monument called the "Bell of Happiness," and if you ring it together, your love may become eternal?! Why not stop by on your sightseeing trip to Mt. Nokogiri and deepen your love as a couple?