Mount Omuro located in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is an awe-inspiring mountain that leaves a profound impact on traffic. The lush inexperienced slopes of the mountain are decorated with undulating peaks, and its defining function is the silhouette reminiscent of an inverted bowl. Embarking on a cable vehicle ride to the summit, you could savor a thrilling aerial walk.
Mount Omuro has been exact as a UNESCO Global Geopark, supplying a vantage factor for the majestic views of Mount Fuji and status as an extraordinarily desired traveller attraction. A leisurely walk of approximately 1 kilometer around the volcano's caldera offers lovely vistas of Mount Fuji, the Izu Seven Islands, and the Sagami Bay, amongst other scenic treasures.
On clean days, this vicinity, with Mount Fuji as its backdrop, is immensely famous for taking pictures commemorative pictures. Within the volcano's crater lies the Omuro Shrine, devoted to the deities of safe childbirth and marriage, and it also functions centers for indulging in archery. Let us now delve into the enigmatic legends surrounding Mount Omuro and explore the way to savor its services to the fullest!
Hotels and Guesthouses in Ito City: Booking.com | Agoda.com | Hotels.com
What is "Mount Omuro" in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture?
Mount Omuro is a symbol of Ito City in Shizuoka Prefecture, located on the jap facet of the Izu Peninsula. This volcano stands at an elevation of 580 meters and capabilities a completely unique open-mouthed crater at its summit. When viewed from under, it resembles a triangular cone, however from the air, it takes on the form of an inverted rice bowl, with a one-of-a-kind hollow center. This formation is the end result of volcanic interest and is called a "volcanic cinder cone."
Japan is home to severa volcanic cinder cone formations, however Mount Omuro is a prime consultant, renowned for the annual "managed burning" of the whole mountain in spring, which attracts humans from all over the world to witness the surprising mountain fires. Due to these prescribed burns, Mount Omuro is commonly included in colourful, sparkling greenery, making it a lush and tranquil mountain.
The Holy Land of the Animated Movie "Your Name"
In Makoto Shinkai's film "Your Name," the prototype for the meteor crater is none other than Mount Omuro. If you're a fan of this movie, I highly recommend visiting Mount Omuro as a pilgrimage to this sacred site.
Due to its striking resemblance to the mountain where Mitsuha's shrine appears in the film, it has become a hot topic. If you've watched the movie, you'll recognize it as the verdant, tea-like mountain!
Mount Omuro also houses a shrine and offers a path around its summit that truly resembles the location depicted in the film. For those seeking to immerse themselves in the world of "Your Name," this is indeed a recommended destination.
Overlooking Mount Fuji and Sagami Bay From the Summit
Mount Omuro may not be towering in altitude at approximately 580 meters, but it offers a breathtaking panorama. From its summit, one can behold the majesty of Mount Fuji, the expanse of Sagami Bay, the Izu Islands, and the towering peaks of the Tenshō Mountains.
Designated as a National Natural Monument, walking up the mountain is prohibited to protect its unique plant life.
To reach the summit, visitors must take a cable car, so exercise caution during your visit. The cable car operates from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
The Omuro cable car is a common sight at ski resorts, featuring two-person cabins. For those who may be uneasy about heights, this cable car remains relatively close to the ground and offers a smoother ride, taking approximately 6 minutes from the base to the summit.
Savoring "Ohachi" at the Mountaintop
After a 6-minute cable car ride, you will arrive at the summit of Mount Omuro. The volcano's crater, known as "Ohachi," boasts a depth of around 70 meters and a diameter of about 300 meters.
Around the crater, there is a walking path extending for approximately 1 kilometer. Taking a stroll along the promenade encircling the crater, known as the "Omuro Circumference," is a highlight of visiting Mount Omuro.
Taking a leisurely 30-minute walk around the bowl, you can enjoy breathtaking views from every angle. Be sure to stroll at your own pace and take in the 360-degree beauty of the scenery.
Visit to the "Omuro Shrine" on Mount Omuro
The Omuro Shrine（浅間神社）, dedicated to the deity Iwachinahime-no-Mikoto, is situated at the center of Omuro Circumference, so be sure to pay your respects. In reality, Mount Omuro is considered the sister mountain to Mount Fuji, often referred to as an energy point that can rival the splendor of Mount Fuji.
The Omuro Shrine venerates Iwachinahime-no-Mikoto, a deity associated with blessings for matchmaking and safe childbirth.
In the midst of the beautiful scenery, if you visit the Omuro Shrine at the summit, you may find your romantic fortunes elevated.
It is Considered Taboo to Praise the "Beautiful Mount Fuji"
The view from Mount Omuro is truly stunning. When you look at Mount Fuji from the summit, it's undeniably beautiful, and you might find yourself exclaiming, "Beautiful Mount Fuji!" On clear days, Mount Fuji stands tall against the blue sky, making it one of Japan's most spectacular sights.
However, it's said that uttering the phrase "Mount Fuji is beautiful" is considered taboo at Mount Omuro. The locals here are aware that if you praise Mount Fuji when coming from Mount Omuro, you may encounter a minor misfortune.
The concept of not praising Mount Fuji, known as the "no pointing out the beauty of the sister Mount Fuji," is deeply connected to a myth about two sorrowful sisters.
The enshrined deity at Omuro Shrine, Iwachinahime-no-Mikoto, has a very close sister, whose name is Konohananosakuya-hime. She is worshipped as a deity at the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, the main shrine of Mount Fuji.
One day, Jinmu Tenno, also known as Emperor Jimmu, fell in love at first sight with Konohananosakuya-hime, the sister of Konohanasakuya-hime, who was the great-grandfather of Emperor Jimmu. He proposed to their father, who was delighted and decided to offer both sisters to Jinmu Tenno in marriage.
Even though they started living together, Jinmu Tenno only had affection for the exceptionally beautiful Konohanasakuya-hime. Iwachinahime-no-Mikoto, on the other hand, was considered unattractive, and Jinmu Tenno couldn't bring himself to marry her. After enduring a life of misery, he was eventually sent back to their father.
This caused a significant rift between the sisters. According to this myth, it is said that if you praise Mount Fuji, which represents the sister, then a minor misfortune will befall you.
Culinary Delights and Archery Activities at Mount Omuro
At the summit, there's a shop where you can savor the delectable cuisine of Mount Omuro. In addition to the renowned "Omuro-san Kofuku Dango," a trio of large rice dumplings, you can also find soft-serve ice cream and takoyaki (octopus balls) among other offerings.
The summit also features facilities where you can partake in archery. You can apply for this activity at the shop. If you visit on a calm, sunny day, why not give it a try?
Tourist Attractions Near Mount Omuro:
Izu Shaboten Zoo（伊豆シャボテン動物公園）
The Izu Shaboten Zoo is renowned for its unique "original capybara open-air bath" that is only open during the winter. Visitors can interact with adorable capybaras, squirrel monkeys, kangaroos, and other animals while offering them snacks. It's a charming and one-of-a-kind experience to enjoy the company of these animals in a relaxing setting.
The "Animal Boat Tour," where you can observe animals while cruising on boats floating around eight different islands on ponds and coasts, is a unique and precious experience that can only be enjoyed in Japan. It offers a distinctive way to observe animals in a scenic and serene environment.
The zoo boasts approximately 1,500 species of cacti and succulent plants from around the world, creating a visually stunning display, especially during the flowering season. Visitors can enjoy a visual feast of these remarkable plants, making it a treat for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
- Izu Shaboten Zoo (伊豆仙人掌動物園) Information
- Address: 1317-13 Tomiho, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
- Admission Fees: Adults (Junior high school age and above) 2,600 yen, Elementary school students 1,300 yen, Children (4 years and above) 700 yen
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Seasonal adjustments may apply)
- Phone: 0557-51-1111
- Official Website: https://izushaboten.com/
Garden Cafe（庭カフェ）
The Garden Cafe offers a unique experience where you can both gaze at Mount Fuji and get hands-on in crafting your own original candles. In a space adorned with 100 flickering candles and featuring hammocks and tree platforms in the garden, you can relish an extraordinary atmosphere.
The proprietor provides easy-to-follow instructions while engaging in pleasant conversations, making time fly by. Here, you can use a variety of wax colors to create your very own original candles. Inside the room, facing the ocean, with soothing music playing in the background, lighting your candles, you can forget about the hustle and bustle of daily life. You can choose to have the candles delivered directly to your home the following day, or you can collect them in-store.
You can also experience creating rainbow lanterns using over 10 different colors of paraffin wax. Just by looking at the rainbow lanterns, you can enjoy the unique and beautiful flickering flames, which bring a sense of serenity and delight.
- Garden Cafe (庭カフェ) Information
- Address: 1317-851 Tomiho, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
- Prices: Large Candle: 4,500 yen; Medium Candle: 2,200 yen
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays (Open on public holidays)
- Phone: 0557-51-8253
- Official Website: http://niwacafe.sakura.ne.jp/
Izu Wax Doll Museum（伊豆ろう人形美術館）
At this museum, you can admire over 100 wax figures of celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe, Yujiro Ishihara, Ichiro, The Beatles, and many others. Everything is created in life-size, and special attention is given to using real human hair for crafting the hair and facial hair on these figures.
Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece "The Last Supper," which took 13 years to create, is a must-see. The museum also features works by the renowned sculptor Sergio Bustamante. There are plenty of highlights, including the "Aztec calendar," which has become a popular topic of discussion.
- Izu Wax Figure Museum (伊豆ろう人形美術館) Information
- Address: 674-1 Ike, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays
- Phone: 0557-54-5555
