Mount Daisen is the great peak of western Tottori and the highest mountain in the Chugoku region, a broad volcanic cone that dominates the coastal plain and, seen from the west, echoes the shape of Mount Fuji. It has been a sacred mountain for well over a thousand years, home to Daisen-ji, an ancient mountain temple, and to Ogamiyama Shrine reached by a long stone-paved approach through towering trees. Around it spread Japan’s largest beech forest, walking trails for every level, ski slopes in winter and some of the region’s finest autumn colour. Whether you climb to the summit ridge or simply walk the temple approach and forest paths, Daisen is Tottori’s grandest piece of nature.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Daisen Area, Tottori |
| Hours | Trails open daylight; temple hours vary |
| Admission | Free; temple hall small fee |
| Time needed | Half to full day |
| Best time | Autumn colour; summer hiking; winter ski |
What to See
- The great volcanic cone of Mount Daisen, a sacred peak.
- The ancient temple Daisen-ji and Ogamiyama Shrine’s stone approach.
- Japan’s largest beech forest and trails for every level.
- Superb autumn colour and winter ski slopes.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Lake Nakaumi on the plain below.
- Pair with Tottori wagyu reared in the region.
- Read our Tottori overview .
Getting There
- By car: the easiest way to the trailheads and temple.
- By bus: seasonal and regular buses run from Yonago Station to Daisen.
Tips
Match your plan to your fitness and the season: the summit climb is a real, several-hour hike needing proper shoes and weather awareness, while the temple approach and lower forest trails are gentle and rewarding on their own. Come in autumn for the beech colour, check summit-trail conditions before setting out, and base yourself around Yonago or the Daisen slopes.
