Mt. Daisen Hiking & Trekking Guide 1,729m — Highest Peak in Western Japan | All Levels Welcome
Updated: May 2026 | Category: Area Guide
🏔 Mt. Daisen (1,729m) is the highest peak in the Chugoku region, a dormant volcano rising above Tottori Prefecture within Daisen-Oki National Park. The trailhead is just 15 minutes by car from HALE MAKAWAO. The main Summer Trail (round trip ~4–5 hours) is suitable for beginners and families, while more challenging routes reward experienced trekkers. After the hike, soak away tired muscles at a nearby onsen hot spring before returning to your private villa.
⛰ Mountain Basics
Elevation: 1,729m (Misen Summit — Kengatake peak is off-limits due to safety)
Location: Daisen-Oki National Park, western Tottori Prefecture
Climbing season: May through November (winter ascents require full mountaineering gear)
Nearest trailhead parking: Daisenjicho Parking Lot (fee-based in summer; get there early)
Distance from HALE MAKAWAO to trailhead: ~15 minutes by car
📌 Trail Guide by Route
① Summer Trail (Natsuzan Tozando) — Round Trip
Most Popular~6km round trip4–5 hours totalDifficulty ★★★☆☆
The most popular route starting from the Daisenji temple approach. Well-maintained wooden boardwalks and steps make this accessible to first-time hikers. Total elevation gain is approximately 900m. Rest at the Shelter Hut at the 6th station (approx. 1,350m) — a welcome halfway point. The summit boardwalk offers sweeping views of the Sea of Japan, the Oki Islands, and the Shimane Peninsula on clear days.
Note: Wooden boardwalks above the 8th station become very slippery when wet. Trekking poles strongly recommended.
② Gyoja Course (via Ogamiyama Shrine)
~8km round trip5–7 hours totalDifficulty ★★★★☆
A quieter, more rugged alternative passing through the Ogamiyama Shrine complex. The route involves rocky scrambles and steep sections — best suited for hikers with some mountain experience. Can be combined with the Summer Trail for a challenging loop.
③ Utopia Course (Sankopeak & Alpine Meadows)
~8km round trip5–6 hours totalDifficulty ★★★★☆Best for wildflowers
Famous for the "Utopia" alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers in July–August. The view of Daisen's dramatic north face from Sankopeak (1,516m) is one of the most spectacular in all of Tottori. Rocky terrain throughout — experience required.
④ Kagikake Pass Viewpoint Walk (Family-Friendly)
Great for families~2–3km1–2 hoursDifficulty ★☆☆☆☆
Drive to Kagikake Pass (approx. 1,080m elevation) and stroll along well-maintained walkways for stunning close-up views of Daisen's dramatic southern cliffs. Perfect for young children and those who prefer a relaxed nature walk. Round trip takes 1–2 hours.
🌞 Best Season to Visit
🌸 Spring (April–May)
Katakuri (dogtooth violet) and violets bloom at lower elevations. Some snow lingers at upper elevations through early May — crampons may be needed. Late May brings stunning fresh beech forest greenery. Summit temp: 0–10°C.
☀︎ Summer (June–August)
Peak hiking season. Alpine wildflowers carpet the Utopia area in July–August. Early morning starts occasionally reward hikers with a spectacular sea of clouds. Summit temp: 15–20°C — about 10°C cooler than the valley.
🍁 Autumn (September–November)
Beech forests turn gold and red from mid to late October — arguably the mountain's most beautiful season. Crisp clear air allows for exceptional long-distance views. Snow possible from November. Summit temp: 5–15°C.
❄︎ Winter (December–March)
Snowfall exceeding 1–2m is common. Avalanche and route-finding risks are serious — for experienced mountaineers only. For winter activities, head to Daisen Ski Resort instead.
👞 Family Hiking Tips
HALE MAKAWAO guests with children frequently combine a Daisen forest walk with the Kagikake Pass viewpoint. Even without attempting the summit, a 1–2 hour stroll through ancient beech woodland gives families a genuine taste of Daisen's natural beauty.
🟢 Toddlers to early elementary: Kagikake Pass boardwalk (drive-up access, flat terrain)
🟡 Elementary school age: Summer Trail to 6th Station (2–3 hours round trip, ~450m gain)
🔴 Middle school and up: Full summit ascent via Summer Trail (4–5 hours round trip)
If hiking to the summit with children, start no later than 6:00 am. Afternoon clouds build quickly, and thunderstorms are common in summer.
📅 Essential Gear Checklist
Minimum Required Gear
Hiking boots or trail shoes (regular sneakers become dangerously slippery above the 8th station)
Rain jacket (mountain weather changes fast)
Food and water — no shops on the summit; bring at least 500ml x 2 per person
Headlamp (for early morning starts)
Sunscreen and hat
Trekking poles (especially helpful for descent — protects knees)
HALE MAKAWAO can provide information on nearby convenience stores and supermarkets. Stock up the evening before your hike for a smooth early start.
♨︎ Post-Hike Hot Springs (Onsen)
Goen-yu-in (Daisenji area): Closest to the trailhead, popular with hikers. About 20 minutes by car from HALE MAKAWAO.
Kaike Onsen (Yonago city): A seaside hot spring resort overlooking the Sea of Japan. About 40 minutes by car. Day bathing with meal plans available.
Kogane-sen (Mizokuchi area): A quiet onsen on Daisen's southern slopes. Day bathing available.
🚗 Getting There & Parking
From HALE MAKAWAO to Summer Trail entrance: ~15 minutes by car
Main parking: Daisenjicho Parking Lot (¥500/day in summer season)
Free parking spots exist near Daisen Kanko Hotel early in the morning
On summer weekends, lots fill up fast — arrive before 6:00 am
By bus: Hinomaru Bus "Daisenjico-yuki" from Yonago Station, approx. 50 minutes to Daisenji bus stop