Mount Tatsuganesan
Mount Tatsuganesan stands at 512 meters above sea level on the border between Minamisanriku Town and Kesennuma City in Miyagi Prefecture. The mountain's name derives from "Tatsugamine," meaning dragon's peak, and its summit commands panoramic views of the Sanriku Coast extending to Cape Utatsu. Local legend describes the landscape as resembling a gigantic dragon lying westward, with the dragon god serving as both a water deity and sea deity. This connection is reflected in nearby place names such as Natari and Satari, said to represent the dragon's right and left legs respectively.
The mountain holds deep historical significance dating to the 12th century when Fujiwara Hidehira, the powerful lord who brought prosperity to Hiraizumi through gold culture, worshiped here and established three Buddhist temples—Seisui-ji, Jakko-ji, and Kinpu-ji. At the summit lie 11 sutra mounds where scriptures inscribed with the Lotus Sutra in vermilion ink on Japanese paper were buried in gilt-bronze vessels during the late Heian period. These mounds served as offerings for future generations during a time when people believed the world had entered a spiritual dark age.
Mount Tatsuganesan's primary attraction is its spectacular azalea display from early to mid-May, when naturally growing wild azaleas transform the mountainside into a crimson panorama visible across the slopes. From the summit, visitors can observe the Pacific Ocean, the distinctive ria coastline with its deep inlets and islands, and the contrast between mountain forests and coastal waters. The location has long served as a sacred site for mountain worship, drawing pilgrims and nature enthusiasts alike. Summer visitors encounter fields of sunflowers creating striking contrasts against the blue sea.
The mountain is accessible by car directly to the summit area. From Sendai, the regional transportation hub, travelers can take the JR Tohoku Line to Kogota Station, transfer to the JR Kesennuma Line or BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) service to reach Minamisanriku, then arrange local transportation to the mountain. The journey from Sendai takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. By direct highway bus, the trip takes about 100 minutes. Private vehicle access via the Sanriku Expressway offers the most convenient option, exiting at Shizugawa IC, Minamisanriku Kaigan IC, or Utatsu IC depending on your starting point.
