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| 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.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| The jumpoff point of Ameyama |
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| 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
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| 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
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| Forest of Residents (住民の森) |
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| You can see the airport and the Star Gate Hotel from Ameyama |
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| Before getting to the peak, you need to pass through this torii gate first |
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
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| The hut on the peak of Ameyama |
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| The West Hiking Course |
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| You can see Ogi Ward of Isumizano City from the peak |
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| 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
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
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