Mount Tsukuba
Kanto Region
Mount Tsukuba, located at the northern end of Tsukuba city in Japan's Kanto region, rises to 877 meters and is renowned for its distinctive double peaks: Nyotai-san (female peak) and Nantai-san (male peak). Unlike most Japanese mountains, Tsukuba is non-volcanic, composed primarily of granite and gabbro. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Kanto plain, including sights of Tokyo's skyline, Lake Kasumigaura, and Mount Fuji on clear days. The mountain holds deep cultural significance as the legendary home of the divine couple Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, who are said to have birthed Japan and other deities. Historically, the mountain was a site for ancient fertility festivals called kagai, which celebrated marriage and community bonds. Its natural beauty is complemented by seasonal vegetation that colors the landscape throughout the year. Additionally, Mount Tsukuba is notable for its granite quarries and the cultivation of native mandarin oranges. The mountain's name derives from a noble named Tsukuha no Mikoto, reflecting its historical importance. Today, it remains a beloved destination for hikers and those seeking both spiritual and scenic experiences.
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Tip: The best time to visit Mount Tsukuba is during clear weather for optimal panoramic views, especially in spring and autumn when the foliage is vibrant. Visitors are advised to check weather conditions before hiking and consider purchasing tickets for the cable car in advance during peak seasons to avoid long waits. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and children. Comfortable hiking shoes and hydration are recommended for the climb.
Interesting facts
- •Mount Tsukuba is one of Japan's few non-volcanic mountains, composed mainly of granite and gabbro.
- •The mountain features two peaks named Nyotai-san (female) and Nantai-san (male), symbolizing a divine couple.
- •On clear days, visitors can see the Tokyo skyline, Lake Kasumigaura, and even Mount Fuji from the summit.
- •The soil bacterium Streptomyces tsukubensis, found near Mount Tsukuba, is the source of the immunosuppressant drug tacrolimus.
- •The Imperial Japanese Navy used the phrase 'Climb Mount Niitaka 1208' as a coded signal to commence the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.
- •Mount Tsukuba is known for cultivating a native mandarin orange species called 'Tsukuba mikan' or 'Fukuremikan'.
- •Ancient fertility festivals called kagai were held on Mount Nyotai, allowing social practices that included marriage and adultery.
History
Mount Tsukuba's name originates from Tsukuha no Mikoto, a noble appointed governor during Emperor Sujin's reign, who renamed the area.
Ancient legends depict the mountain as a hospitable host to a deity, contrasting with Mount Fuji's pride.
The mountain is sacred in Shinto beliefs, housing the male deity Izanagi-no-Mikoto on Nantai peak and the female deity Izanami-no-Mikoto on Nyotai peak.
Historically, it was the site of kagai fertility festivals promoting marriage and community bonds.
During World War II, the Imperial Japanese Navy used the mountain's name as a coded signal for the Pearl Harbor attack.
Place Guide
Nyotai-san (Female Peak)Ancient times
The higher of the two peaks at 877 meters, dedicated to the female deity Izanami-no-Mikoto, and historically a site for fertility festivals.
Nantai-san (Male Peak)Ancient times
The slightly lower peak at 871 meters, dedicated to the male deity Izanagi-no-Mikoto, complementing Nyotai-san to symbolize divine union.
Granite QuarriesOngoing
Located in the northern area of Mount Tsukuba, these quarries produce renowned beautiful granite still valued today.
Mandarin Orange Cultivation AreasHistorical and ongoing
At approximately 140 meters elevation on Mount Tsukuba’s slopes, various mandarin orange varieties including the native Tsukuba mikan are cultivated.