Mount Nokogiri: A Sawtooth Spectacle of History and Spirituality
Discover Mount Nokogiri: History, breathtaking views, and Japan's largest stone Buddha await on Chiba's 'Saw Mountain'.
Mount Nokogiri (Nokogiri-yama), translating to 'Saw Mountain,' derives its name from its distinctive saw-toothed ridge, a profile shaped both by natural formations and centuries of quarrying. Located on the Boso Peninsula in Chiba Prefecture, it presents a unique landscape and a rich history. From the Edo period (1603-1867), Nokogiri-yama served as a vital quarry, providing high-quality stone (Boshu-ishi) for major construction projects in Edo (modern Tokyo). This stone was used in iconic structures like Yasukuni Shrine and Waseda University. The mountain's scarred cliffs and exposed granite tell the story of this industrial past. Quarrying ceased in 1985 due to conservation concerns. Today, Mount Nokogiri is renowned for the Nihon-ji Temple, a sprawling Buddhist complex founded in 725 AD. Within the temple grounds, visitors encounter the awe-inspiring Nihon-ji Daibutsu, a 31-meter tall stone carving of Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of Healing. Another notable site is the Hyaku-Shaku Kannon, a massive carving of the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy. The mountain also features around 500 Arhat statues, with some missing heads from the anti-Buddhist campaign of the Meiji era. The mountain offers several viewpoints, including the famous 'Jigoku Nozoki' or 'Hell Peek Point,' a jutting cliff providing dramatic views of the Boso Peninsula and Tokyo Bay. On clear days, Mount Fuji can be seen in the distance. Visitors can ascend the mountain via hiking trails or the Nokogiriyama Ropeway, enjoying panoramic views along the way.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the temple complex, as there are many stairs and uneven paths.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting to maximize views of Tokyo Bay and Mount Fuji.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if hiking, as there are limited options on the mountain.
- Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the mountain and temple complex.
- Consider visiting during the autumn to see the Japanese maples around the quarry.
A brief summary to Mount Nokogiri
- Motona, Kyonan, Motona, Awa District, Chiba, JP
Getting There
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Train
From Tokyo Station, take the JR Sazanami Special Express to Kimitsu Station. Transfer to the Uchibo Line and disembark at Hama-Kanaya Station. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and is partially covered by the JR Rail Pass. From Hama-Kanaya Station, it's a 10-minute walk to the Nokogiriyama Ropeway.
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Ferry
From Yokohama Station, take the Keikyu line to Keikyu Kurihama Station. Take a 10-minute bus ride or 5-minute taxi ride to Kurihama Port. From there, take the Tokyo Bay Ferry to Kanaya Port. The ferry crossing takes approximately 40 minutes. From Kanaya Port, it is about 10-minute walk to the Nokogiriyama Ropeway. Ferry tickets cost ¥1000 one way or ¥1780 round trip.
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Ropeway
From the base station, take the Nokogiriyama Ropeway to the upper station. The ropeway ride takes about 4 minutes and costs ¥930 for a round trip or ¥500 for a one-way ticket for adults. From the upper station, follow the signs to the various attractions, such as the Nihon-ji Temple, Hyaku-Shaku Kannon, and Jigoku Nozoki.
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Car
Take the Aqua Line to Kisarazu and head south. Two roads lead to Nokogiriyama: a toll road and a toll-free road. The toll road costs ¥1000 (including parking) and leads to parking lots near the top of the mountain. The toll-free road leads to parking near the Daibutsu. Limited parking is available near the hiking trail for around ¥500.
