Mount Benishiyama and Elephant’s Back

Start from the free car park next to Camp Inn Miyama. The access road is narrow; a compact vehicle is recommended. Alternative: park at the car park of the Tanemaki Gonbei no Sato Village (free outside the summer season), take the suspension bridge, follow the Choshi River and walk to the campsite – a peaceful walk that respects the campers (~30 mins extra). Walking sticks are available at the start of the path; these are useful for warding off snakes – please return them when you leave.

(S/E) On leaving the campsite, take the path that leads into the forest and soon turns west-south-west. Pass the first warning sign about bears (see safety instructions in the practical information).

(1) At a signpost with an arrow, head south towards Benishiyama (便石山).

(2) Cross a road and climb steadily through the forest of cypress and Japanese cedar trees. There are a series of wooden steps, so take your time.

(3) Pass under an electricity pylon and follow the path to the right (some dense ferns may obstruct the path depending on the season). Climb steeply to the summit of Mount Benishiyama (便石山).

(4) Continue eastwards and you will soon reach Elephant’s Back. Panoramic views of the Choshi River and the Sea of Kumano Nada. Climbing or walking on the rock can be very dangerous due to possible strong gusts of wind; please be extremely careful and do not go near the edges.

(5) The return journey follows the same route in the opposite direction, back to Camp Inn Miyama (S/E).

Access and parking From the N42, follow signs for Camp Inn Miyama. Free parking immediately adjacent to the campsite; narrow access road (compact vehicle recommended). Alternative: car park at Tanemaki Gonbei no Sato Village (free outside the summer season; paid in summer from 8am to 6pm).

Public transport: Mihama JR Station (三浦駅), then by taxi or hire car; no direct bus service to the campsite.

Toilets None on the trail. At the Tanemaki Gonbei no Sato Village car park: open from 9am to 5pm (except Mondays). The Michi-no-Eki Kaiyama (道の駅海山) roadside station is a nearby alternative.

Recommended season Autumn and spring. Avoid in wet weather (slippery trail, dangerous wooden steps) and in the height of summer (high heat and humidity).

Equipment: Hiking boots essential. Bring plenty of water (no refreshment points along the route). Bear bell strongly recommended. Walking poles available at the trailhead (please return them when you leave).

Safety: Area frequented by bears and snakes. Notify a trusted person before setting off, stating your expected return time. Check the surroundings at the start: scratched trees, droppings or trampled vegetation indicate a recent visit. Make noise regularly on the trail to signal your presence. If you encounter a bear: do not run; back away slowly without turning your back.

Elephant’s Back (象の背) The highest point of the hike. This massive rock perched near the summit offers a 360° view of the Choshi River and the Sea of Kumano Nada, a reward well worth the effort. Beware of gusts of wind on the rock.

The forest of Japanese cypress and cedar trees Omnipresent along the trail, it lends the hike a mystical, dense and soothing atmosphere, typical of the sacred forests of the Kumano region.

The Choshi River Visible below from Elephant’s Back, it is renowned for the exceptional clarity of its waters, among the purest in Japan.