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Mount Benishiyama (便石山) is a must-do hike in the Kumano region of Mie Prefecture. The route starts from Camp Inn Miyama and heads towards Elephant’s Back (象の背), a rock whose shape resembles an elephant’s back, offering a striking panorama of the Choshi River and the Sea of Kumano Nada. The climb is steep, punctuated by numerous wooden steps through a forest of cypress and Japanese cedar trees with a mystical atmosphere. Accessible provided you proceed at your own pace. Allow around 2 hours one way. For an unforgettable sunrise from the rock, plan to set off around 2am; headlamps are essential. The area is home to bears and snakes: a bear bell is mandatory; inform a trusted person before setting off.