Mount Hyonosen

Mount Hyonosen rises to 1,510 meters along the border of Hyogo and Tottori prefectures in western Japan, making it the highest peak in the Hyonoki mountain range. The mountain has been revered since ancient times and is considered one of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains. Its name, meaning "icy peak," reflects the dramatic winter conditions that transform the summit into a frozen wonderland of ice-covered trees known as juhyo or ice monsters, similar to those found on Mount Zao.

The mountain holds deep spiritual significance as a training ground for shugendo mountain ascetics and features several sacred sites along its trails. The area was designated as part of Hyonosen-Ushiroyama-Nagisan Quasi-National Park in 1969, protecting its diverse ecosystems that range from beech forests at lower elevations to alpine vegetation near the summit. The region is particularly noted for its rich biodiversity, including rare plant species and the Japanese serow, a goat-antelope native to Japan.

Visitors can experience well-maintained hiking trails of varying difficulty, with the most popular route from the Hyonosen Kogen area taking approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach the summit. Winter attracts ski enthusiasts to the nearby ski resort, while the warmer months offer spectacular alpine flower displays and autumn foliage.

The summit provides panoramic views extending to the Sea of Japan on clear days. Photography enthusiasts particularly favor winter visits to capture the ice-covered trees, though proper winter mountaineering equipment and experience are essential during this season.

Access to Mount Hyonosen typically begins from Yoka Station on the JR San-in Line, followed by a 60-minute bus ride to the Hyonosen Kogen area. Rental cars offer more flexibility for exploring the mountain's various trailheads. The ropeway that once served the mountain is no longer in operation, so visitors must hike from the base. There is no admission fee for accessing the mountain trails.