Mount Tsukuba

筑波山

Mount Tsukuba has two peaks, Nyotai (the female peak, 877 m) and Nantai (the male peak). Trails pass unusual rock formations and old Shinto sites, and there are shrines on both peaks. Both peaks can be reached easily by cable car or ropeway, so beginners can visit too. The mountain is popular in autumn for its colorful leaves.

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Visitor information

Getting there

From Tsukuba Station, take the Mount Tsukuba Shuttle Bus (about 45 minutes).

By car, exit the Joban Expressway at Tsuchiura-Kita IC and drive about 40 minutes.

Time needed

The circular hiking route takes about 4.5 hours (6.9 km); time varies by route and pace.

Hours and fees can change. Please check the official website before you go.

Good to know

Both peaks can be reached by cable car or ropeway, so it is easy for beginners.

Tips for Muslim visitors

The circular hiking course from Tsukuba Shrine takes about 4.5 hours.
The Mt. Tsukuba Cable Car and Ropeway make the mountain easy to reach for beginners.
There are shrines on both peaks, and the whole mountain is treated as a sacred area. Visitors may simply look around.
Natural sites may have few facilities. Bring water, a travel prayer mat and a qibla app, and check the weather; mountains and lakes can be much colder than the city.
Restrooms for wudu can be far apart on trails. Many Muslim travellers carry a small water bottle for wudu.
Plan your visit around prayer times. Below are today's prayer times for Ibaraki and the verified places to pray nearby.
Food stalls and shops near popular sights usually do not have halal certification. Check the ingredients, or choose from the verified places on this site.