Hiking in Takamizuyama

With May just around the corner, the shades of green in the foliage are putting on a show. I take advantage of a fine day to return on a hike I particularly enjoy on Mount Takamizuyama. The route I choose is from station to station. So it’s easy to get to. On the Oume line, it takes about 1h30 by train from Shinjuku. The walk starts at Ikusabata and the route is very well signposted.

I appreciate this hike for its calm and wild. There’s no urban noise in the valley, no freeway or train station to break the silence, as is sometimes the case on certain itineraries. I come across wild animals such as deer and monkeys. I bring with me a small bell that I hang on my bag to warn the bears of my presence, an animal we prefer to avoid meeting.

The road quickly gives way to paths, then more or less uneven tracks. It’s still a sporty hike, with lots of elevation changes and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Perhaps this is why so few hikers attempt it.

There’s a temple on the way. For me, it’s a real haven of peace where I like to enjoy the quiet. There’s a very special atmosphere here, different from what I feel in other sacred places.

The path disappears for a while between the rocks, only to reappear further on. The hike then becomes a climb. Below the path lie steep slopes of slender Japanese cedars. The fading sun lends an aura of mystery to these forests, where one can only guess at the presence of some Japanese spirits.

The venerable trees are in their kingdom.

The hike ends at Mitake station, from where I take the train back to Tokyo. It lasts about 4 hours. It’s worth taking your time to savor the atmosphere of this place steeped in history.