Though it’s a little far from central Osaka, Mt. Ikoma (Ikoma-san) makes a fantastic day trip out to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether it’s hiking, thrill-seeking, cherry blossom-viewing or temple hopping, there’s something for everyone here!
Osaka and Kobe at dusk. View from an Observatory of Shigi-Ikoma Skyline
Mount Ikoma is a mountain straddling the border between Nara prefecture and Osaka prefecture, with a 16 century-old shrine on its east side. However, you’d be remiss to write it off as just another sacred mountain, since there’s so much more than just historical shrines here. The beauty of Mt. Ikoma is that there’s something for everyone.
For instance, those who like panoramic views and thrill-seeking will find both at Ikoma Sanjo, an amusement park on top of the mountain. You can pay individually for each ride, or purchase an unlimited access pass. Roller coasters are vastly improved by mountain views - that's a fact!
If that’s not your cup of tea, hit the Zushidani Hiking Course, which will take you past almost every attraction that the mountain has to offer, and delight your resident bird-watcher to boot. Have your fortune told at Ishikiri Shopping Street, or say a prayer at many of the temples around for success in business - entrepreneurs from around Japan make the pilgrimage here precisely for this. Don't forget to check out Hozan-ji Temple, home to Kagi-ten, the Japanese incarnation of the Hindu god Ganesh.
The night views from the mountain - particularly from Narukawa Pass along the Shigi-Ikoma Skyline - are spectacular and romantic. Mt. Ikoma is also one of Kansai’s most famous picnic spots, so when the cherry blossoms are out, head here for a special hanami experience like no other.
Ikoma town itself retains some of the atmosphere of traditional Japan, with narrow, winding roads and an old entertainment district. Since it’s a nice escape from the urban hustle and bustle, Ikoma is worth a day trip out from Osaka.
Getting To Mt Ikoma
Take the Kintetsu Nara Line from Osaka-Uehonmachi Station (three subways stops east of Namba Station). A quick journey of about 20 minutes will get you to Ikoma Station. Walk from there to the Tori-mae station on the Ikoma Ropeway (cable car) and take it to the Hozanji Station and then switch to the cable car to the top.
The one-way cable car journey from the base to the summit costs Y360. There’s a small amusement park near the summit of the mountain that you can enter for free (rides cost money). The views from the summit area are stunning.
If you feel like it, you can walk down or take the cable car down. You might consider stopping to check out Hozan-ji Temple on the way down.
English name:
Mt. Ikoma
Japanese name:
生駒山
English address:
Nabata-cho, Ikoma-shi, Nara-ken, 630-0231
Yamate-cho, Higashiosaka-shi, 579-8022
Japanese address:
〒630-0231 奈良県生駒市菜畑町
〒579-8022 東大阪市山手町
Opening hours:
24h
Admission:
Free
Nearest Transport:
Funicular: Ikomasanjo Station on the Kintetsu Ikoma Cable Line.
Nearest Hotels:
:: Check availability and pricing for hotels near Mount Ikoma on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Telephone:
none
Website:
Official Website (English) (Ikoma Journey)
Near To Here:
Mt. Ikoma is located in Osaka's Eastern district. See our complete list of things to do in Eastern Osaka, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Where Are These Places Located?
See these places on the Inside Osaka Google map:- Open the Osaka map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
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- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
Osaka Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Osaka guide
- Check Osaka accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Osaka
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Osaka, Osaka to Kyoto and Osaka to Tokyo
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- View my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
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- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
