Takatsumuji-yama and Jubuichi-yama are one of the rare 100 Famous Mountains of Yamagata in that you don’t have to climb to get to the summit.

Jubuichi means one tenth, and the name has an interesting backstory: During the Edo Period (1603-1868), Jubuichi-yama was the site of a mine. Only certain people were allowed in and out of the mine, and of those people, those selling necessities to the people living around the mine were charged a 10% fee for the privilege. Hence the name.

In 1923, when Sakai Yahagi (reading uncertain) was mayor, they lent out the area around the base of Jubuichi-yama for free for three years. They planted grape vines in the area that ended up growing very well, and formed the current landscape surrounding Lake Hakuryu. Also, the Shinden Tsuzumi (weir) is famous for the plants found in its peat wetlands.

Ippan (General) Trail

Look for the Nanyo Sky Park signs from Route 13. Turn east at the junction, and keep following the road. The road takes you to Jubuichi-yama, and there is a gravel road to Takatsumuji-yama.

Both trailheads have ample parking, and both mountains offer great views. From Jubuichi-yama you can see Hakuryu Lake below, and the Okitama Basin beyond that.

On the other hand, Takatsumuji-yama has a lookout with a 360° panorama. From here you can see the Zao Renpo, Azuma Renpo, Ide Renpo, and Asahi Renpo. At the same time, you can also see Gassan from there.

Especially in early autumn, the mysterious scenery from the summit when there is a sea of clouds below is enough to take your breath away. Then, near the summit of both mountains lies the Nanyo Sky Park. From here you can watch the paragliding and hang gliding.

References

Kotobank