Ferries, Buddhas and Quarries: A day trip to Mt. Nokogiriyama

Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class Kaleb Sarten | CHIBA, Japan (Nov. 1, 2021) The Ishi-Daibutsu, a stone-carved statue of Buddha, sits atop Mt. Nokogiriyama in Chiba, Japan. For more than 75 years, CFAY has provided, maintained, and operated base facilities and services in support of the U.S. 7th Fleet's forward deployed naval forces, tenant commands, and thousands of military and civilian personnel and their families. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Kaleb J. Sarten)  

CHIBA, CHIBA, JAPAN

11.01.2021

Story by Petty Officer 2nd Class Kaleb Sarten 

Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka

If you’re anything like me, then occasionally city life—along with all its modern wonders and amenities—starts to become oppressive, and you find yourself in need of a little time in nature to refresh your mind and reconnect with the world around you. Of course, there are the big trips that we all have on our to-do lists, train rides to Nagano or Sapporo, or hopping on a plane down to Okinawa, but what if you’re in need of a quick day trip? If that’s the case, then look no further than Mt. Nokogiriyama.

Situated across Tokyo Bay in Chiba prefecture, Mt. Nokogiriyama offers a quick, easy, and cheap day hike rich with historical, spiritual, and geological attractions. After taking the Keikyu line from Yokosuka-Chuo to Keikyu Kurihama station, a short bus ride brings you to the Tokyo-Wan Ferry terminal—where your adventure begins.

For those who’ve never ridden a ferry, it’s an exciting experience, and a far cry from being aboard a naval vessel. Instead of haze grey walls and steep ladderwells, comfortable seats offer a relaxing way to take in the sweeping bay views. Grab a drink from the snack bar, and before you know it, you’ll be moored to the pier in Chiba.

Just outside the Chiba ferry terminal, a large colorful map illustrates the different paths to the top of the mountain. You can either hike your way to the top or take the ropeway that pulls you directly to the peak. Because my traveling companion and I are suckers for punishment, we chose the hike; but not everyone will enjoy this route. If you choose to hike, you will have to wander through tight neighborhood streets until you reach the trailhead. Once there, you can take either the Sharikimichi trail or the Kanto Fureai No Michi trail—either of which lead to the top of the mountain.

If you choose to hike, be advised that the paved road gives way to a dirt trail, and level terrain becomes an ever-steeper incline. For my friend and I, we found ourselves walking up a trail that was part stone path and part Stairmaster. Historically used as a path that workers used to bring carved stone up and down from a mountain quarry, this is a route that will definitely leave your legs burning.

In the beginning, the hike offers views of old-growth trees and moss-covered rock, but as you progress upward and reach the old quarry, sharp-edged stone faces with clear evidence of human work become a part of the landscape. Also, little plaques line the trail giving the historical context of various landmarks.

Once you arrive at the top, a 700-yen entrance fee buys you access to all of the attractions at the top: Jigoku Nozoki, an overhanging ledge that offers magnificent views of Chiba and Tokyo Bay; Hyaku-Shaku Kannon, a massive stone carving of the goddess of mercy; Ishidaibutsu, a stone-carved Buddha that is double the size of the Kamakura Daibutsu; and the Nihonji Temple—a Buddhist temple founded in the eighth century.

After climbing through the endless labyrinth of stairs to see all the beautiful sights, travelers, who hiked to the top, you will be glad to know that the ropeway offers a quick way to get to the base of the mountain.

All in all, the trip took us a total of eight hours and cost about 3500 yen each, earning a five-star rating for being both fun and economical!

• Date Taken: 11.01.2021
• Date Posted: 11.15.2021 01:04
• Story ID: 409287
• Location: CHIBA, CHIBA, JP