Ōmuroyama (Mt. Ōmuro) – Shizuoka

Standing on the eastern side of the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, Ōmuroyama is a striking, perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone covered entirely with smooth grass.
Its iconic silhouette, open summit, and breathtaking 360-degree views make it one of the most memorable natural destinations in the region.

Although only 580 meters high, Ōmuroyama’s unique shape, easy chairlift access, and dramatic surroundings have turned it into a must-visit spot for travelers seeking both natural beauty and a relaxed, accessible outdoor experience.

A Mountain Formed by Ancient Eruptions

Ōmuroyama is a scoria cone volcano created during major volcanic activity around 4,000 years ago.
The smooth slopes and circular crater are the result of ash and lava fragments accumulating during a single, powerful eruption.

The mountain has long been considered sacred by local residents, and because of its geological and cultural importance, it is designated as a National Natural Monument.
To preserve the fragile vegetation, visitors cannot hike the slopes—all access to the summit is via a scenic chairlift.

The Chairlift Ride: Gentle, Scenic, and Family-Friendly

The visit begins with a 6-minute chairlift ride that transports you from the base to the crater rim.
As you rise slowly toward the top, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, the Izu Highlands, and distant mountains unfold behind you.

The ride is quiet, relaxing, and suitable for all ages, making it an accessible experience even for those who aren’t comfortable with intense hiking.

The Crater and the Rim Walk

The summit of Ōmuroyama is shaped like a giant circular plateau surrounding a massive crater.
Visitors can enjoy a 1-kilometer walking path along the rim, offering panoramic 360-degree scenery.

What You Can See from the Top

• Mount Fuji on clear days

• Sagami Bay and the endless Pacific

• The Amagi Mountain Range

• Izu Highlands and plateau villages

• Nearby volcanic formations

The landscape is wide open, peaceful, and ideal for photography or a quiet nature walk. The summit has almost no artificial structures, giving it a serene and expansive atmosphere.

Archery Inside the Crater

One of the most unique activities on the mountain is archery inside the crater.
The wide, enclosed basin forms a natural arena where visitors can try traditional archery with simple instructions.

This practice has deep roots in local customs and adds a cultural dimension to the visit.
Few volcanic craters in the world allow such interactive, hands-on experiences.

Seasonal Highlights of Ōmuroyama

Ōmuroyama offers dramatically different scenery with each season:

Spring

Fresh green grass blankets the slopes, and warm breezes make the crater walk particularly pleasant.

Summer

Deep green landscapes contrast beautifully with bright blue oceans and skies. The summit remains breezy and cooler than sea level.

Autumn

Golden-brown grasses and crisp air create atmospheric scenery. Clear visibility often reveals Mount Fuji in stunning detail.

Winter

The mountain hosts its famous Yamayaki (controlled burning) festival, where the entire slope is set ablaze—an unforgettable sight.
The dry winter air provides the clearest views of the year.

The Annual Yamayaki Festival (山焼き)

Each February, locals perform Yamayaki, a fire festival where the entire mountainside is burned to renew the grass.
This dramatic event, visible from across Itō City, is both a purification ritual and a traditional method of maintaining the mountain's signature appearance.

The ceremony is spectacular: hundreds of volunteers ignite the slopes simultaneously, creating a sweeping wave of flames that circle the mountain.

Nearby Attractions

Ōmuroyama is centrally located and easy to pair with other popular sites:

• Izu Shaboten Zoo – Home of the famous capybara hot spring

• Izu Granpal Park – Zip-line courses, outdoor attractions, and night illuminations

• Jogasaki Coast – Rugged cliffs, lighthouse views, and dramatic hiking trails

• Izu-Kōgen Town – Cafés, craft shops, galleries, and museums

These nearby spots make it simple to plan a half-day or full-day itinerary around the mountain.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Around the base of the chairlift and throughout nearby Itō City, visitors can enjoy:

• Fresh seafood from Sagami Bay

• Local citrus (mikan) desserts and soft serve

• Gohei mochi with sweet miso glaze

• Wasabi specialties from the Amagi Highlands

• Local craft beer and baked goods

At the foot of the lift, you’ll find cafés offering soft cream, pastries, and snacks made with regional ingredients.

Etiquette and Things to Know

• Walking on the grassy slopes is prohibited to protect vegetation.

• Mornings typically offer the best visibility for Mount Fuji.

• The summit is fully exposed—bring sunscreen and warm layers depending on the season.

• Wind can be strong; secure hats and loose items.

• Comfortable shoes are recommended for the rim walk.

• Pets are allowed on the chairlift in special carriers.

Ōmuroyama is well-maintained, safe, and accessible even for beginners.

Access

From Tokyo

• JR Limited Express Odoriko to Itō (1 hr 45 min)

• Bus or taxi to Ōmuroyama (25–30 min)

From Atami

• Local train to Itō (20 min)

• Bus or taxi to the mountain

From Izu-Kōgen Station

• Bus to Ōmuroyama (about 15 min)

Parking is available for visitors arriving by car.

Why Ōmuroyama Is Special

Ōmuroyama stands out as one of Japan’s most distinctive and accessible natural landmarks.
Its perfectly shaped volcanic silhouette, peaceful crater summit, sweeping coastal and mountain views, and unique cultural traditions offer a travel experience that feels both dramatic and serene.

Whether you are enjoying the chairlift ride, walking the crater rim, viewing Mount Fuji, or witnessing the Yamayaki fire festival, Ōmuroyama provides a vivid and unforgettable look at the volcanic heart of the Izu Peninsula.

Related articles

Official Website
https://omuroyama.com/index_en/

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