Ski, trek, and take in the view at Mt. Gozaisho, and visit the onsen at its foot
Introduction:
Mt. Gozaisho is a stunning mountain located on the border between Komono in Mie Prefecture and Higashi-Omi in Shiga Prefecture, in the center of Suzuka Quasi-National Park. It is known for its unusual rock formations and is the closest ski resort to Nagoya. Visitors can reach the mountain through a combination of train, bus, walking, and a ropeway ride. Once at the summit, there are various mountaintop activities to enjoy, including skiing in winter and hiking in summer. Additionally, the area offers breathtaking views, paved walkways, a nature school, observatories, and a restaurant serving the local specialty, Gozaisho curry udon.
How to Get There:
To reach Mt. Gozaisho, visitors can take the Kintetsu-Nagoya Limited Express from Nagoya to Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station. From there, they can transfer to the local train and get off at Kintetsu Yunoyama Onsen Station. From the station, a Mie Kotsu Bus can be taken to Sanko Yunoyama Onsen, which is a 10-minute walk from the ropeway. The entire journey takes approximately one hour and 20 minutes. The accessibility of the mountain makes it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists.
Gozaisho Ropeway:
One of the highlights of visiting Mt. Gozaisho is the Gozaisho Ropeway. This ropeway is the means to reach the summit of the mountain from the hot springs at Yunoyama Onsen. The gondolas of the ropeway offer breathtaking views of the cities of Yokkaichi and Ise Bay, as well as the picturesque Suzuka Mountain Range. The ride itself is an experience to remember, as visitors are lifted high above the ground, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The ropeway provides a convenient and enjoyable way to access the mountaintop and all it has to offer.
Ski in Winter, Hike in Summer:
Once at the summit of Mt. Gozaisho, visitors can enjoy a quaint ski resort during the winter months. The resort offers a range of ski slopes suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers. The snow-covered landscape creates a picturesque setting for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. In addition to skiing, there are numerous hiking trails in the area that provide fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. These trails offer a different perspective of the mountain and allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.
Mountaintop Activities:
Summit Park, located beneath the Gozaisho Ropeway, offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy. The park features paved walkways that make hiking easy and accessible to all. Along these walkways, visitors can take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and enjoy the peacefulness of nature. Gozaisho Nature School, located within Summit Park, provides educational exhibits on the local flora and fauna, allowing visitors to learn more about the natural environment of the area. Additionally, there are three observatories strategically placed to provide visitors with the best views of the landscape. These observatories offer panoramic vistas that are sure to leave a lasting impression. To complete the experience, visitors can visit the gift shop to purchase souvenirs and the restaurant to indulge in the local specialty, Gozaisho curry udon.
Unusual Rocks:
Mt. Gozaisho is also known for its unique rock formations. While riding the gondola of the Gozaisho Ropeway, visitors can catch a glimpse of these fascinating rocks. One of the most intriguing formations is a square stone precariously balanced on two supporting pillars. The locals believe that this formation resembles Jizo, the Buddhist guardian deity of children. These rock formations add an element of mystery and wonder to the mountain, making it even more captivating for visitors.
Conclusion:
Mt. Gozaisho offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether it’s skiing in winter, hiking in summer, or simply taking in the breathtaking views, this mountain has something to offer everyone. The accessibility of the mountain, combined with its unique rock formations and mountaintop activities, make it a must-visit destination in the Nagoya area. So, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Mt. Gozaisho is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Address And Maps Location:
Komoro-shi, Mie-ken
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