Yesterday (March 28, 2026), I climbed Mt. Yagura (Yaguradake) in Minamiashigara.
From a distance, this mountain is famous for its distinct, rounded shape that looks just like a Japanese onigiri (rice ball).
While it’s a familiar landmark for locals, don’t let its cute appearance fool you—it’s a much more rewarding climb than it looks!
First, I headed to the parking lot provided by Minamiashigara City.
It has space for about eight cars, and having a restroom nearby is a big plus before starting the trek.

After a 10-minute walk from the parking lot, I reached the trailhead.
There is a sturdy wire mesh gate designed to keep wildlife like wild boars and deer out. Passing through this gate marks the true beginning of the ascent.

The hike up Mt. Yagura can be summed up in one word: "Incline."
Because of its beautiful, sharp triangular shape, there are almost no flat sections. It’s a continuous, steady climb up the slope.
I found myself catching my breath quite a bit as I pushed toward the summit.

When I finally reached the top, the view opened up instantly.
From the peak, you can see the massive presence of the neighboring Mt. Kintoki and Mt. Myojin.
The real luxury of Mt. Yagura, however, is being able to see the "Triple Crown"—Mt. Kintoki, Mt. Myojin, and Mt. Fuji—all at once.

Mt. Yagura’s unique silhouette makes it easy to spot from almost anywhere in the Ashigara Plain.
At around 800 meters, it might seem "low" on paper, but the relentless steepness makes it a surprisingly tough and satisfying workout.
It truly is the perfect vantage point for admiring the famous peaks of the Ashigara area.