Located along the borders of Yonezawa City and Takahata Town, Ichinen-bo is a mountain said to have been opened as training grounds by Jikaku Daishi, AKA Ennin, the monk who founded Risshaku-ji temple at Yamadera. In 860, Ennin spent one year in training on this peak. He then left a disciple here before moving on to Yamadera. This is where the name comes from, as Ichinen-bo means ‘peak of one year’.

For the mountains of Yamagata, Ichinen-bo is rare in that it is solid rock. Over the centuries, the peak has been eroded due to the strong winds. This means there are a number of oddly-shaped rocks and huge boulders. There are also some amazing vantage points to boot. At the summit there is the Kamitobashi Rock offering 360° panoramas. As such, Ichinen-bo has been loved by locals and non-locals alike for a very long time.

Ichinen-bo Hiking Trail (one-hour one way)

The Ichinen-bo Hiking Trail starts from the Kamiumi-jo (reading?) hamlet with its views of the sprawling rice fields. There is enough space for three cars across from the trailhead where there is a trail signpost.

Following the trail, once past the remains of Ichinenbo Hondo (main hall), the ascent starts gradually and you will start to see more and more rocks. Along the way, you can get great views at the Hatago (weaver) Rock, the Maku (curtain) Rock, and the Tengu-no-sumo (Tengu Sumo) Rock. Ichinen-bo is great for beginners. However, from about halfway up there are parts with chains and ladders to contend with. There are even rocks that you have to physically pass through.

It’s not possible to climb the final Kamitobashi Rock. Instead, wind your way around to the left and go via the Jikoku and Tengu Rock to the summit. From there, to the north you can see Gassan and Murayama Hayama. To the east Zao-san and the mountains of Miyagi. To the west the Asahi Renpo. Lastly, to the south the Ide and Azuma Renpo.

Access to Ichinen-bo is on a sealed road and there is enough parking for eight cars at the trailhead.