The legendary hike to Takachiho-No-Mine

Takachiho-no-Mine is the second highest peak (1574m) of Kirishima mountains, after Karakunidake.

This trail starts at Takachiho Visitors' Centre.. you can't miss it there is a Torii to welcome you on this legendary path!

(Ladies and Gentlemen, this is where the legend begins)

Contrary to other trails in Kirishima, during this one you walk through the forest for only about 20 minutes and then there is absolutely no obstacle between you and the beauty of the landscape. However, if you are afraid of heights, it might be a little scary as the slope is pretty steep! But that’s also what’s fun about it.

(You see in the back the first slope to climb)

During this first part, just like horror movies, you and your fellow climbers will probably split. Do not worry, this is normal, the path is so wide and you have so many trail’s choices that you can adapt your hike pace depending on your mood and your endurance. (And do not worry, unlike horror movies, everybody will be just fine at the end)

(This is how it looks when you are climbing the first part. Beautiful, right?)

Once you are done with the first part, the trail gets easier for a few minutes, it’s kind of a break between two efforts. This part is called “the horse back part” by the locals. Not sure it looks like that but I’m not an expert in horses.

(Here is the break you’ve been wanting when you were climbing up the first part!)

While walking and taking your breath, you will be able to take a look at the Ohachi volcanic crater, and I can tell you… it’s pretty amazing!

(well… yes, I wish the picture was better, but the crater was just to huge)

When I did the hike for the first time with some friends, we hired a guide for 15,000 yens for the whole group. We learned many interesting things about Kirishima mountains and his knowledge of all the hiking courses makes you climb in complete confidence. However, if you want to climb by yourself, it is entirely possible. Just in case, you should learn the kanji for Takachiho-no-mine (高千穂峰) to be able to read all the signs.

(Still waiting for the English signs)

The landscapes you will discover during your hike will simply blow your mind. If the weather is nice you can fully appreciate the view and the numerous volcanoes of Kirishima, and if it gets cloudy, you will be able to enjoy the spooky atmosphere. All joking aside, you should check the weather forecast before climbing as the visibility gets strongly reduced in the fog.

Once you’ll reach the top, you will see a spear pointing to the sky. The legend says the gods used this spear to cut through the clouds and descended to earth for the first time right there, at the summit of Takachiho. This is why people say Japan was actually born in Kirishima and more precisely at Takachiho-no-Mine. Isn’t it an awesome legend and one more reason to hike this famous mountain?

(yeah baby!)

The hike takes 3 to 5 hours back and forth, lunch time at the summit included.

The hike isn’t that hard but this is not little stroll at the park either. It is better to come prepared and with the right outfit, especially hiking shoes!