Mt. Kampu

Mt. Kanpuzan is a gentle 355-meter-high mountain located near the center of the Oga Peninsula in Akita Prefecture. The entire mountain is covered with green grass, pampas grass, and other vegetation, giving the scenery the appearance of a natural carpet. Because trees rarely block the view, a sweeping 360-degree panorama opens up from the summit, and the mountain is known as the “Mountain of Views.” Its magnificent scenery is often described in tourism promotions as one of the “Three Great Views of the World,” deeply impressing all who visit.

■ Access and Views
Mt. Kanpuzan is equipped with the Kanpuzan Panorama Line, a road that allows visitors to drive close to the summit, making it easy for anyone to reach. At the top, there is a rotating observation tower that makes a slow full turn in about 13 minutes, allowing visitors to enjoy the 360-degree scenery even from indoors.

From the observatory, you can take in the vast landscapes created by Akita’s natural beauty: to the east lies the reclaimed land of Hachirogata, once Japan’s second-largest lake; to the south stands sacred Mt. Chokai; to the north is the World Heritage-listed Shirakami Mountains; and to the west stretch the Sea of Japan and Nyudozaki Lighthouse. On clear days, the view extends far into the distance, and the scenery throughout the seasons adds lasting memories to any trip.

Inside the observatory building, there is also a restaurant where you can enjoy local dishes such as Inaniwa udon and Hinai-jidori oyakodon, as well as an “Omiyage Plaza” offering local specialties from the Akita and Oga areas, making it a pleasant place to relax between sightseeing stops.

■ Formation and Geology
Mt. Kanpuzan is a volcano formed by volcanic activity that began about 30,000 years ago. Layers of andesitic lava accumulated repeatedly, creating the mountain’s current gentle shape. Even today, its volcanic landforms remain clearly visible, and there are several geologically significant sites scattered throughout the area, including the crater remains of the “First Crater,” “Second Crater,” and “Tsumakoi-toge Crater,” as well as “Itabanodai,” where traces of lava flow can be observed.

The andesite that makes up most of the mountain is called “Oga stone,” and it has long been used for shoreline protection work, garden stones, and gravestones, becoming deeply connected with the lives of local people.

■ Vegetation and Natural Environment
Mt. Kanpuzan has a distinctive landscape covered by semi-natural grasslands dominated by pampas grass and turf. From spring to early summer, rare grassland plants such as Pulsatilla cernua and Aster takasagomontanus bloom in abundance, and many of them are designated endangered species, making this an excellent place for plant observation.

In the past, the grassland was used by local residents as a source of grass resources, but from the 1950s onward, this use declined, leading to increased shrub encroachment and a greater risk of wildfires. For this reason, controlled burning was resumed in 2003 under the direction of Oga City in an effort to preserve the grassland landscape. Today, volunteer-led burning and grass cutting continue, contributing to the conservation of this beautiful grassland.

■ Trekking and Activities
With its low elevation and gentle slopes, Mt. Kanpuzan is popular as a trekking spot that even beginners can enjoy with confidence. There are several well-maintained courses; for example, the inner loop route from the small observatory on the mountainside to the summit is about 6 km long and takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, making it ideal for a leisurely immersion in nature.

Along the way, you can enjoy seasonal plants and volcanic landforms while reflecting on the legends associated with Mt. Kanpuzan.

Mt. Kanpuzan is also known as a famous paragliding site, and when wind conditions are favorable, visitors can experience a “stroll through the sky” while taking in the panoramic view of the Oga Peninsula from above. The scenery seen from this unique perspective offers a special sense of wonder that is different from what one experiences on the ground.

■ Summary
Though it stands at just 355 meters, Mt. Kanpuzan is one of Akita’s premier tourist attractions, combining a 360-degree spectacular view, rich natural surroundings, and noteworthy geological features. From viewing the scenery at the rotating observatory and observing the geology, to plant watching in the grasslands, easy trekking, and paragliding from the air, this mountain offers a wide variety of ways to enjoy itself. It is a moving destination where nature, history, and culture intersect.

When visiting the Oga Peninsula, be sure to experience the charm of Mt. Kanpuzan.