Tokusenjo Mountain

Mt. Tokusenjo is famous for being Japan's largest colony of mountain azaleas. From mid to late May, approximately 500,000 mountain azaleas bloom, painting the entire mountain in shades of red and orange. The hiking trail that starts from the Kesennuma side entrance is relatively easy and can be done with just sports shoes. However, there are steep stairs near the summit, so be sure to watch your step. From the first observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kesennuma Bay and the Pacific Ocean, which is a breathtaking sight. Information on the blooming of the azaleas at Mt. Tokusenjo is updated every year from late April. Additionally, the "Tsutsuji Bus" operates, allowing for boarding and disembarking at Kesennuma Station, Pier 7, Umi no Ichi, and Mt. Tokusenjo.

Mt. Tokusenjo is a healing place where you can connect with nature. The hiking trail is filled with beautiful flowers such as alpine roses and hakusan shakunage, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of nature. There are two hiking entrances, one in Kesennuma City and one in the former Motoyoshi Town. It takes about 2 and a half hours on foot from the Kesennuma City entrance. Events such as the "Ohtani Coast Road Station" and the Kesennuma Beer Festival are also held in the surrounding area. Before hiking, be sure to check the weather forecast and prepare appropriate equipment. Also, to prevent mountain accidents, let's follow the hiking rules.

From Mt. Tokusenjo, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the contrast between the cobalt blue of the Pacific Ocean. From the first observation deck, you can see the Kesennuma Bay and the Pacific Ocean at a glance. There are also observation decks and festival squares where you can enjoy the scenery. Around Mt. Tokusenjo, there are also tourist spots such as "Otani Beach," a roadside station in Kesennuma City, and Kesennuma Bay Cruise. The access to Mt. Tokusenjo is about 30 minutes by car from Kesennuma City and about 2 and a half hours from Sendai City. Buses are also available from Kesennuma Station.

The hiking course at Tokusenjo Mountain is relatively easy, making it enjoyable even for beginner hikers. The course starts from the Kesennuma side trailhead and can be done with just sports shoes. There are several places to take a break, such as the first and second observation decks. Especially from the first observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kesennuma Bay and the Pacific Ocean, which is a breathtaking sight. In the vicinity of Tokusenjo Mountain, events such as the "Ohtani Coast Road Station" and the Kesennuma Beer Festival are also held.

Every year from mid to late May, the "Tokusenjo Mountain Azalea Festival" is held at Tokusenjo Mountain. During this time, it is crowded with many tourists. It is Japan's largest azalea colony with about 500,000 Yamatsutsuji in full bloom. It takes about 40 minutes to walk slowly from the trailhead to the summit. There are also tourist spots in Kesennuma City and scenic spots along the Sanriku Coast in the surrounding area. Before climbing, be sure to check the weather forecast and prepare appropriate equipment.