Mt. Tsurugi Trekking: Walking the Sky of Bamboo Grass on the Roof of Shikoku

Mt. Tsurugi to Jiroukyu Traverse: Fine Ridge Trekking in Shikoku

The traverse from Mt. Tsurugi, 1,955 meters, in Tokushima Prefecture to the adjacent Jiroukyu, about 1,930 meters, is a splendid trekking route along ridges covered with sasahara, or bamboo grass meadows. On clear days a grand panorama overlooking the whole Shikoku mountain range spreads out. This article focuses on the climbing routes and how to walk them. For the faith and natural appeal of the mountain, see also the companion article on Mt. Tsurugi as a sacred peak of Shugendo.

Course Overview

A popular course uses the Mt. Tsurugi lift from the Minokoshi trailhead to near the summit hut, then traverses via the Mt. Tsurugi summit, about 10 minutes, to Jiroukyu, about 2 hours round trip. Walking the bamboo grass ridge with its open sky lets you fully enjoy the great nature of Shikoku. You can also turn back at the Mt. Tsurugi summit depending on your fitness.

From Minokoshi to the Summit

The starting point is Minokoshi, about 1,420 meters in elevation. From here the lift runs to Nishijima Station, climbing about 330 meters of elevation over roughly 830 meters of distance in about 15 minutes, with Nishijima Station at about 1,750 meters. From Nishijima there are several trails to the summit, so you can choose a course to match your fitness and time. A route on foot from Minokoshi without the lift is also available, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours one way.

Spending Time at the Summit

Near the summit is the Mt. Tsurugi Summit Hut, which offers accommodation and meals by reservation. To catch a sea of clouds or sunrise, staying the night before and greeting morning at the summit is recommended. The summit is a gentle bamboo grass plateau with boardwalks, commanding a view of Jiroukyu and the Shikoku range. Weather changes easily, so allow extra time for your activity at the top.

Access and Basic Information

Minokoshi, the starting point, is about 2 hours by car from Tokushima city. The Mt. Tsurugi sightseeing lift typically runs from late April to the end of November, at published fares of about 2,300 yen round trip and 1,300 yen one way for adults, and 1,100 yen round trip and 650 yen one way for children as of 2026. Operating dates, hours, and trail conditions change by year, so confirm official information in advance. The road to Minokoshi is winding and requires careful driving, and some sections may close in winter.

Practical Travel Notes

The climbing season runs from the fresh greenery of May to the autumn colors of November. As a guide, a round trip to the Mt. Tsurugi summit using the lift takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, and extending to Jiroukyu takes a total of about 4 to 5 hours. Because the elevation is high and mornings and evenings are cold, carry warm clothing and rain gear even in summer. The ridge is often windy and the weather changes quickly, so plan an early descent. To avoid crowds, hike on weekdays or early in the morning, and the first lift may reward you with a sea of clouds or a ridge glowing at sunrise. Real nearby spots include Tsurugisan Hongu Hozoiwa Shrine, Oturugi Shrine with its sacred water, Jiroukyu, and the rafting areas of Iya and Oboke at the foot of the mountains. Budget about the 2,300 yen lift round trip plus food and gear, with lodging extra if you stay at the summit hut.

Advice

Mt. Tsurugi is easy with the lift, but it is a genuine 1,955 meter mountain. Always prepare good trekking shoes, rain gear, warm clothing, and enough water and snacks. There is little shade on the ridge, so a hat and sun protection help. On days when the weather may turn, do not push on and consider turning back at the Mt. Tsurugi summit. Check the time of the last lift in advance and work backward from your descent time to stay safe.

📚 Sources

This article draws mainly on the hiking guidance published officially or on site by facilities such as the Mount Tsurugi climbing lift and the summit hut, and the sightseeing information of Mima city, Tsurugi town, Naka town, and Tokushima Prefecture. It also reflects the interpretive signs along the trails and at the summit. Lift operation and trail conditions may change, so please confirm with the official information of each facility or authority before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: Half a day for a round trip to the summit using the lift, or a full day including a traverse.
• What to bring: Hiking boots, warm clothing, rain gear, drinks, and trail food; the elevation is high and temperatures low.
• How to get around: From Minokoshi take the climbing lift to Nishijima, then choose among several trails to the summit.
• Time of day: Mountain weather changes easily, so aim for an early morning start.
• Note: Beware of sudden weather changes and your descent time, and make a reasonable plan.