Noroyama

Located within the Setonaikai National Park in Kure City, Mount Noro boasts an elevation of 839 meters, making it the highest peak along the Setouchi coast. The well-maintained "Sazanami Skyline" scenic drive allows access to near the summit by car. From the "Kabuto-iwa Observatory," a few minutes' walk from the parking lot next to the Noroyama Visitor Center, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea's numerous islands. On clear days, you can even see the Ishizuchi mountain range in Shikoku, making it a representative scenic spot of the national park.

This is also a sacred mountain, with legends of a young Kobo Daishi (Kukai) undergoing rigorous training here. A walking trail called the "Giant Rock Road" runs through the area, dotted with mystical spots such as "Ogasane-iwa," where massive boulders are piled up in layers, and "Gankai," where countless giant rocks cover the slopes. The powerful force of nature and the weight of history intersect here, creating a solemn atmosphere.

The area boasts rich scenery throughout the seasons, with cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, and vibrant autumn foliage that paints the mountaintop in vivid colors, captivating visitors. For a closer connection to nature, we recommend staying at the "Noro Kogen Lodge" or the expansive "Noroyama Campground." In summer, the temperature is about 5 degrees Celsius lower than in the city, making it a comfortable summer retreat. At night, you can enjoy a sky full of stars, and in the early morning, you might even encounter a fantastical sea of clouds. Furthermore, "Kooriike" (Ice Pond), once an ice harvesting site, is a photo spot that reflects the surrounding trees like a mirror. This beautiful scenery is also a must-see.