Last Updated: Feb 22, 2023

Ibaraki’s Mt. Tsukuba

The Best Day Hike from Tokyo

Dear reader, allow me to begin this one with an intriguing folktale. According to this legend, back in the early mists of time, a deity descended from the heavens. Seeking a place to spend the night, this divine being beseeched two mountains. The first of these peaks was none other than Mt. Fuji. Unfortunately for our celestial friend, the iconic mountain haughtily refused, thinking that it didn’t need the deity’s blessing. Still needing a place to stay the god instead turned to Mt. Tsukuba over in Ibaraki Prefecture. In stark contrast to Mt. Fuji’s prideful attitude, this crag instead extended its hospitality and even went as far as offering food and water to the divine guest.

Now, adherents who believe this tale report that the reason that Mt. Fuji is so barren today is that it rejected the visitor from above. Mt. Tsukuba on the other hand is bursting with lush vegetation and seasonal flare due to having accepted the deity and subsequently being blessed with its favor. Regardless of whether you want to buy into the myth or not though, one thing is true; No matter when you visit Mt. Tsukuba, you’ll be greeted with something truly magnificent. Whether for the autumn foliage or for a late winter hike, Mt. Tsukuba is one spot you really ought to consider.