Mount Hourai

Overview

Mount Hourai is a 695-meter-high mountain located in Shinshiro City, Aichi Prefecture, designated as a place of scenic beauty and a national natural monument. It houses historical temples and shrines, including Hourai-ji Temple, said to have been founded by a hermit named Rishu about 1,300 years ago, and Hourai-zan Toshogu Shrine, built by Tokugawa Iemitsu. Mount Hourai is blessed with abundant natural beauty, making it ideal for hiking and mountain climbing. The mountain features the Hourai-ji Temple approach, a stone staircase leading to breathtaking views where nature and history intertwine. Also on Mount Hourai is the "Kasasugi" cedar tree, once considered the tallest in Japan, with an age exceeding 800 years and a height of approximately 60 meters. Mount Hourai is also famous for being home to the Japanese brown wood owl (Konohazuku), the prefectural bird of Aichi. These nocturnal owls nest in tree hollows. You might even hear their calls on Mount Hourai. Mount Hourai offers beautiful scenery throughout the year. Spring sees the mountain bathed in pink with cherry blossoms in full bloom. Summer offers lush green mountainscapes. Autumn brings vibrant fall foliage painting the mountain in stunning hues. Winter showcases a beautiful snow-covered landscape, creating a magical atmosphere. Mount Hourai is a captivating place where nature, history, and faith converge. Be sure to visit!