Anpayama (Anpa Mountain)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A mountain about 239 meters high rising behind Kesennuma's city center, long cherished as a symbolic presence of this port town, where prayers for safe navigation have been offered. You can drive up to the mid-slope, and from there a hiking trail leads to the summit, easily accessible even for elementary school children. From the summit spreads a grand panorama where you can take in Kesennuma Bay, the city, Oshima Island floating in the bay, and Oshima Ohashi Bridge—the complex terrain of the rias coastline becomes crystal clear. It's fun to spot the fish market and Sea Market you visited in the morning from above, and watching fishing boats enter and leave the port can make you lose track of time. There's also a monument shaped like a dragon near the trailhead, offering a different facet of Kesennuma than typical town walks.

Tips

Drive from the city center to the mid-slope parking lot in about 10 minutes. The walk from the parking lot to the summit is a 15-20 minute uphill hike, so wear comfortable walking shoes. The mountaintop is windier and cooler than the city below, so bringing a light layer is reassuring. Bring drinks from before you head up.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour. A clear afternoon offers sharp views of the bay and island.

Access & map

〒988-0000 Oiwai-yama Anpayama, Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture