Ameyama Revisited 2023

Ameyama Revisited 2023
Ameyama Revisited 2023

I solo hiked Ameyama (雨山) for the first time last December 22, 2014, during the 4th day of my family’s first visit to Japan. I finally was able to hike it again after almost a decade last January 8, 2023, which was my 433rd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme.

Ameyama as seen from Nariaihigashi Ward
Ameyama as seen from Nariaihigashi Ward

Unlike my first hike, I wasn’t alone as my friend “Iron Man” Andy joined me this time. During this hike, we left Mr. Toshi’s house early so we could return before lunch. 

Hiking Ameyama with "Iron Man" Andy
Hiking Ameyama with "Iron Man" Andy 

During my first hike, it took me almost 4 hours on the mountain, but this time we were able to conquer it in just 2. Well, maybe because I took fewer pictures now than before and Andy being a marathoner walked fast making me walk faster too.

The jumpoff point of Ameyama
The jumpoff point of Ameyama

You can borrow walking sticks for free. Just make sure that you return them.
You can borrow walking sticks for free. Just make sure that you return them.

We were blessed with wonderful weather during our hike and the view from the peak was amazing. I hope that when I hike Ameyama again in the future, I can do it with my family.

Ameyama Details

Ameyama details
Ameyama details

Height: 314 m

Jump off Point: Under the overpass of Hanwa motorway in Kumatori town, Osaka Prefecture.

Climb time: 1 hour - 2 hours

For those who missed my first article about Ameyama, here is some mountain information.

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path

Ameyama Hiking Path
Forest of Residents (住民の森)

You can see the airport and the Star Gate Hotel from Ameyama

Before getting to the peak, you need to pass through this torii gate first
Before getting to the peak, you need to pass through this torii gate first

Before getting to the peak, you need to pass through this torii gate first

Ameyama

Ameyama rises to a height of 314 meters. From the clearing at its peak, you can see Osaka Bay and Kansai International Airport, as well as a panoramic view of the Izumi mountains and nearby towns. Beyond its stunning scenery, Ameyama holds historical and cultural significance for the Japanese people, especially those in the surrounding areas.

The Peak of Ameyama

The Peak of Ameyama
The hut on the peak of Ameyama

The peak of Ameyama

The view from the peak of Ameyama

The view from the peak of Ameyama

The view from the peak of Ameyama

Ameyama Ruined Castle
Ameyama Ruined Castle

Peak of Ameyama

Peak of Ameyama

Peak of Ameyama

Peak of Ameyama
The West Hiking Course

Peak of Ameyama

You can see Ogi Ward of Isumizano City from the peak
You can see Ogi Ward of Isumizano City from the peak

Peak of Ameyama
You can also see the mountains of Wakayama Prefecture from the peak

Local legends tell of the Ameyama Dragon King, believed to reside at the mountain's summit and control the rain. During droughts, villagers would ascend to the peak to beseech the dragon for rain. This tradition continues today in the villages of Nariai, where the belief is celebrated with the Hassaku event every 1st of September.

The Backpack Adventures Revisits Ameyama

The Backpack Adventures Revisits Ameyama

The Backpack Adventures Revisits Ameyama

Historically, Ameyama was the site of the Rain Fortress, which, though now in ruins, once played a crucial role in guarding the Kokawa highway. This historic site is now known as Ameyama Ruined Castle.


Why hike Ameyama?

Ameyama is a hidden gem for mountaineers, located conveniently close to Kansai International Airport. This scenic peak can be conquered in just 2-3 hours, offering breathtaking views of Kumatori, Izumisano, Kansai International Airport, and Osaka Bay.

Getting to Ameyama:


Ride the #92 Nankai Bus from Nankai Main Line in Izumizano Station bound for Osaka University of Health and Sports Sciences. From the University the jumpoff point is just a 20-minute walk away.

Another option is to ride the  #90 Nankai Bus bound for Okakita. Board down at the town of Nariai. From there the jump-off point is just 15 minutes away.

Ratings

Crowd

Cleanliness

Overall rating

Comments

Book your hotel thru KLOOK

Klook.com
Subscribe and get updated with the latest travel articles of The Backpack Adventures

Popular posts from this blog

Japan Diaries 4: Day 437

Kamay ni Hesus Shrine - Quezon

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Revisited 2023 - Kyoto

Imus City Plaza - Cavite

Todaiji Revisited 2023 - Nara

Sanjo Bridge - Kyoto

10 Things to Do in Uji City

Akabira Tokugawa Castle - Hokkaido

Bonifacio Shrine in Indang - Cavite

Nijo Castle - Kyoto