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Just 3.5 hours from Tokyo by high-speed jet boat, Kozushima is a small island that boasts a surprising variety of spectacular scenery including sheer cliffs and fascinating rock formations. There's so much to see and do, including a relaxing swim in the clear ocean waters or an invigorating hike up the slopes of imposing Mt. Tenjo.The natural wonderland that is Kozushima seems a world away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.Dedicated hiker Ayano Shobu and beach lover Chelsea Rina paid a visit to Kozushima to find out more!
Located roughly in the center of Kozushima, Mt. Tenjo is an imposing presence on the island. It has been considered a sacred place since ancient times. Although only 572 meters in height, Mt. Tenjo is characterized by its constantly changing scenery. The view from the summit is officially ranked among the Top 100 views of Tokyo. Tourists come from all over Japan for the hiking tours and to see vegetation unique to the Izu region, which is on show all year round.
Ayano and Chelsea decide to take a tour with Full Earth, led by veteran nature guide Wataru Furuya. He drives them to the sixth stage of the climb. Today they will be taking the easier route to the summit, known as the Shiroshima path.
According to Furuya, the island is made from a type of volcanic rock called rhyolite. "Mt. Tenjo was active in the 9th to 12th centuries, sending out rhyolite that turned into the white sand that we see on the beaches.And the mountain profile visible today has been shaped by the forces of nature over the last thousand years or so. Mt. Tenjo has an unusually high proportion of shrubs and bushes of the kind that are normally found on mountains in the 2,000 meter class, and this creates a majestic panorama." Ayano and Chelsea are keen to get a look at the wonderful scenery.
The hiking trail is lined with plant species that are only found in the Izu Island chain. As they make their way along, Ayano and Chelsea can see glimpses of the other Izu islands out over the sea. The spectacular views draw gasps of astonishment. After 40 minutes of hiking, they reach the 10th station on the summit path. Despite being foggy, the sea is visible below. Ayano is overjoyed: she has never seen the sea from a mountain before.
Due to its unusual trapezoidal shape, Mt. Tenjo has a variety of unique features that you might not expect to see at the summit of a mountain, such as the heart-shaped Lake Fudo and the eerie lunar landscape of the Urasabaku desert. The desolate rocky landscape contrasts with jungle-like greenery. A hike up Mt. Tenjo offers an ever-changing succession of scenic views that will take your breath away.
Mt. Tenjo is home to a huge range of seasonal native flowers and ferns that appear at different times during the year. One of the great joys of hiking on Mt. Tenjo is seeing the different vegetation on show depending on the season. Kozushima is truly a natural wonderland.
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Full Earth
Mt. Tenjo hike: half day, adults \5000
