Mt. Akahage
Mt. Akahage stands at 325 meters above sea level as the highest peak on Chiburijima Island, one of the four islands comprising the Oki Archipelago in Shimane Prefecture, Japan. This mountain forms part of the outer rim of the Dōzen Caldera, a geological formation created when an ancient volcano collapsed and filled with seawater. The caldera represents a rare worldwide phenomenon where islands rise from the water to form this distinctive geographic feature.
The mountain carries historical significance through its agricultural past. Rotation farming called makihata was performed on the mountain due to land scarcity, and stone walls known as myogaki that once marked field boundaries still stand today, demonstrating the perseverance of local communities in creating self-sufficient environments. The red soil visible beneath the grass cover gives the mountain its name, which translates to "red beard."
The observation deck at the summit provides the archipelago's premier vantage point, offering 360-degree panoramic views of all four Oki Islands. On clear days, visibility extends to mainland Honshu and Mt. Daisen, a 1,729-meter peak in neighboring Tottori Prefecture. Spring visitors can observe wild radish flowers blooming across the landscape while cattle graze in the pastures. The lookout is situated within an active grazing area where approximately 600 cows roam freely, and visitors may encounter these animals near the observation fence or along access roads.
Transportation from Kurii Port includes rental cars for a 20-minute drive plus a 5-minute walk to the summit, or powerful e-bikes requiring 45 minutes plus the same walking distance. Walking the entire route takes approximately 90 minutes. Rental cars are compact kei vehicles accommodating up to four passengers and can be hired at the tourism information office. E-bikes are recommended for visitors at least 157 centimeters tall. A local bus service connects to the downtown area for JPY 100 per adult one-way but does not reach the mountain itself.
