Ash-White Mountainsides with Sulfurous Gas Drifting: The Desolate Grandeur of One of Japan's Three Great Spiritual Sites
About this spot
A dramatic landscape at approximately 800 meters elevation, ranked among Japan's three great spiritual sites alongside Mt. Osorezan (恐山) and Mt. Tateyama (立山). The ash-white mountainsides spread across the area, where sulfurous gas prevents vegetation from growing, and white vapors rise from crevices throughout—a vista truly worthy of the name "Hell." This site has long been revered as a spiritual place and holds a history of sulfur mining. The contrast between the white earth visible from the maintained footpath and the surrounding green mountains is striking, creating a landscape found nowhere else that will have you reaching for your camera repeatedly. That such a dramatic terrain lies just a short drive from the udon region speaks to the depth of Yuzawa's attractions.
Tips
About a 25-minute drive from Oyasu Gorge toward the Doroyu Hot Spring area. The mountain road has many curves and narrow sections, so drive carefully. Volcanic gases are present in the area, so stay on the footpath and avoid depressions. There are no shops nearby, so bring your own water. Winter road closures apply.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 1 hour. Best visited midday through early evening when the air is clear. Just before sunset, the white mountainsides take on a dreamlike, ethereal glow.
Access & map
〒019-0404 Akita Prefecture, Yuzawa City, Takamatsu Bannosawa
Model course featuring this spot
Yuzawa: A Journey Through Inaniwa Udon and Oyasu Gorge's Grand Hot Spring Geyser
Akita
Explore features & model courses
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