Mt. Ariake: Tsushima's Majestic Peak

Hike Tsushima's Mt. Ariake for stunning views, historical sites, and a peaceful escape into nature's embrace.

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Mt. Ariake

Mt. Ariake, rising 558 meters, is a prominent peak on Tsushima Island, Nagasaki. Known for its accessible hiking trails and panoramic views, it offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, with connections to ancient poetry and nearby castle ruins.

A brief summary to Mt. Ariake

Izuharamachi Shimobaru, Tsushima, Izuharamachi Shimobaru, Nagasaki, JP

Local tips

Visit early in the morning for cooler temperatures and the best visibility from the summit.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities on the mountain are limited.
Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure safe hiking conditions.
Wear appropriate footwear, as some trails can be uneven and rocky.

Getting There

Walking

From Izuharamachi, the main town in Tsushima, Mt. Ariake is accessible on foot. Start from the center of Izuharamachi and follow the local signs leading to Mt. Ariake. The walk to the trailhead is approximately 1.5 kilometers and takes about 20-30 minutes. Ensure you have comfortable shoes for the walk.
Public Transport

From Izuhara Port Ferry Terminal, take a Tsushima Bus for 5 minutes to the Tsushima-shi Koryusenta-mae bus stop. From there, walk 5 minutes to the Mt. Ariake trailhead on the Bansho-in Temple side. Bus fares are typically around ¥200-300.

Discover more about Mt. Ariake

Mt. Ariake, standing at 558 meters (1,831 feet), is a captivating mountain located in Tsushima, Nagasaki, Japan. As the largest mountain visible from Izuhara Port, it has been a landmark for centuries. The mountain is celebrated for its natural beauty, historical connections, and relatively easy hiking trails, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The mountain offers several hiking trails suitable for beginners, with the ascent to the summit taking around two hours. The trails wind through diverse landscapes, including cypress forests and rocky terrains, with signposts guiding hikers along the way. The summit is a flat, grassy area perfect for relaxation, picnics, and enjoying panoramic views. From the top, hikers can see the ruins of Shimizuyama Castle, the town of Izuhara, Mt. Yatate, Mt. Shiratake, and the intricate coastline of Aso Bay. On clear days, it's even possible to glimpse the Korean Peninsula. Mt. Ariake's historical significance adds depth to the hiking experience. One of the trails passes through the ruins of Shimizuyama Castle, built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the 16th century during his campaigns in Korea. The mountain is also mentioned in the Manyoshu, the oldest collection of Japanese poetry, highlighting its cultural importance throughout history. The mountain and surrounding area are part of the Iki-Tsushima Quasi-National Park, ensuring the preservation of its natural environment.