Mt. Ryokami — Jagged Ridges in the Depths of Oku-Chichibu

Trail Overview

Mt. Ryokami (両神山, Ryokami-san) is a 1,723m peak located deep in the Chichibu region of Saitama Prefecture, designated as one of Japan’s Hyakumeizan (100 Famous Mountains). Its most striking feature is a jagged, saw-toothed ridgeline visible from far away, which has made it an object of mountain worship since ancient times. The mountain’s name derives from the enshrined deities Izanagi and Izanami.

The contrast between deep Oku-Chichibu forests and dramatic rock formations is the hallmark of this mountain. In spring, pink Akayashio azaleas bloom against the rocky crags, while autumn brings fiery foliage to the surrounding valleys.

Recommended Route: Hinata-Oya Route (Omote-sando Course)

The most commonly used route follows a stream valley to reach the summit.

Course Time

Section	Duration
Hinata-Oya Trailhead → Kaisho	About 30 min
Kaisho → Hakkaisan	About 50 min
Hakkaisan → Kiyotaki Hut	About 50 min
Kiyotaki Hut → Ryokami Shrine (Okusha)	About 50 min
Ryokami Shrine → Mt. Ryokami Summit	About 20 min
Total (one way)	About 3 hr 20 min
Round trip	About 6-7 hours

Note: The trail crosses streams several times — be cautious during or after heavy rain. Near the summit, short chain sections require careful three-point contact on slippery rock.

Mountain Hut Information

Kiyotaki Hut

• Type: Unmanned emergency shelter
• Open: Year-round
• Facilities: Wooden floor rest area; stream water available nearby
• Note: No bedding provided — bring a sleeping bag if planning an overnight stay. Primarily for emergency use

Access Information

• Nearest Station: Chichibu Railway, Mitsumineguchi Station
• From Tokyo: Seibu Ikebukuro Line to Seibu-Chichibu Station (about 1 hr 20 min) → transfer to Chichibu Railway to Mitsumineguchi Station (about 20 min) → Ogano Town bus to Hinata-Oya (about 25 min)
• Important: Bus service to Hinata-Oya is very limited (3-4 per day). Always check the schedule in advance
• By Car: Free parking at Hinata-Oya (about 30 spaces). Fills up early on weekends

Convenience Stores, Shops & Restrooms

Convenience Stores (within 5 min of trailhead)

• There are no convenience stores near Mitsumineguchi Station
• Seven-Eleven near Seibu-Chichibu Station: 1-minute walk. Purchase supplies during your transfer here
• No shops at all near the Hinata-Oya trailhead — advance preparation is essential

Shops & Teahouses

• There are no shops or teahouses along the trail. Bring all food and drinks with you

Restrooms

• Hinata-Oya Parking Area: Public restroom at the trailhead
• Kiyotaki Hut: Restroom available at the shelter
• No restrooms near the summit

Highlights

Spring (Late April–Early May)

• Akayashio azaleas paint the rocky crags with delicate pink blossoms
• Fresh green valley scenery along the stream sections

Autumn (Late October–Early November)

• Deep Oku-Chichibu forests transform into a tapestry of fall colors
• Summit views combined with autumn foliage create spectacular scenery

Packing Checklist

• ✅ Waterproof hiking boots with good grip
• ✅ Rain jacket and pants
• ✅ Lunch and trail snacks (no shops on the trail)
• ✅ Water (at least 2L)
• ✅ Gloves (for chain sections — work gloves are fine)
• ✅ Headlamp
• ✅ Map and compass
• ⬜ Trekking poles (stow away during stream crossings)
• ⬜ Gaiters (for muddy stream-side sections)