Takatoya-yama is a mountain in the centre of Kawanishi Town. The 368 m (1207 Ft.) peak commands great views of the Kawanishi Dahlia Park and the Okitama region agriculture belt. There are two main trails on Takatoya-yama; the Higashi-Mawari (eastern) and Nishi-Mawari (western) trails. Members of the general public and those on town-run events alike make use of the trails. One such event that has since become an established practice is the snowshoe hike at New Year’s. During this event, locals climb up in the snow at daybreak to bring in the new year from the summit of Takatoya-yama. The mountain also hosts mountain biking events.
The relatively shallow ridge inclines make Takatoya-yama great for beginners. There are some steep areas with ups and downs, and also slippery parts to take note of.
Higashi-Mawari (Eastern) Trail (90 minutes one-way)
The Higashi-Mawari (eastern) Trail starts on the eastern side of the Kawanishi Dahlia Park. The sufficiently wide trail takes you through a pine forest. Since the trail is clearly marked, including signs telling you how long you have left, you shouldn’t get lost. However, do make sure to look at the maps at each intersection to know you’re going the right way. During the hike, you can make out parts of Kawanishi Town to the left through the trees. The view gets better as you climb, and once at the summit there are grand views of the Okitama Basin’s agriculture belt. There you can see Nishiazuma-yama, Ide-yama, and Oasahi-dake that surround Takatoya-yama as well.
Nishi-Mawari (Western) Trail (90 minutes one-way, for beginners)
Takatoya-yama’s western Nishi-Mawari Trail starts at the end of a road the wraps around to the west from the Yoku Yoku Centre. Follow the trail to the right and up the ski field until you reach the ridge. There are a few spots along this last part with views from Nanyo to Yonezawa Cities that make good rest areas. After one final long push, you will reach the summit. The summit has an open area with a summit marker and some benches.