Mt. Kurikoma

栗駒山

Mt. Kurikoma is a 1,626 m mountain in Kurihara, in the north of Miyagi. It is one of Japan's "100 famous flower mountains", and hot springs with their own character are found at its foot. The mountain is known for fresh green, autumn colours and snow shapes. Hikers often start from Iwakagamidaira, and the summit offers a wide panoramic view.

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Visitor information

Closed

Part of the prefectural road to the mountain (Tsukidate-Kurikoma Park Line) is closed in winter.

Time needed

The Chuo (central) trail from Iwakagamidaira is about 3 km: about 1 hour 30 minutes up and 1 hour down.

The Higashi-Kurikoma trail is about 4 km: about 2 hours 30 minutes up and 1 hour 30 minutes down.

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

Good to know

The mountain turns red and gold from mid-September to mid-October.
There is parking for about 100 cars.

Tips for Muslim visitors

Near Showa-ko lake below the summit, volcanic gas levels are high and parts of the trail are sometimes closed.
There are nine hiking trails, suitable from beginners to experienced hikers.
Autumn colours start near the summit in mid-September and spread down the mountain until mid-October.
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 Miyagi 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.