The Three Sacred Mountains

Mt. Hando, Mt. Koshin, and Mt. Iwao form the three sacred mountains of Koka, traditionally associated with yamabushi mountain ascetics and, by local legend, with ninja training. Mt. Hando, the highest at 664 meters, has a thatched-roof shrine near its summit dating from 1650 and slopes covered in rhododendrons that bloom in April and May. Mt. Koshin connects to Hando's ridge and includes a rebuilt temple hall with a summit viewing platform. Mt. Iwao features sheer cliffs, unusual rock formations, and a famous cherry grove. Detailed trail maps are available from the Tourism Information Center at the Kokaryu Real Ninjakan.