Mt. Ryuo

In short

Mt. Ryuo is a 575-meter-high mountain in Saijo-cho, Higashihiroshima City. Situated within Ikoi no Mori Park, it is cherished as a familiar, easily climbed mountain. Cherry blossoms in spring and fresh green foliage in summer are beautiful, and on New Year's Day, many people visit to watch the first sunrise of the year.

• ​Views from the First Observation Deck​​: From the First Observation Deck near the summit, the townscape of Saijo and the surrounding Saijo Basin unfold before you, and on clear days, Mt. Noro in Kure City can be seen in the distance
• ​Spring Cherry Blossom Forest​​: Around 1,500 cherry trees are planted near the observation deck, dyeing the area around it in cherry pink during the blossoming season
• ​Ikoi no Mori Park at the Foot of the Mountain​​: With a children's plaza, multipurpose open space, and campsites, families can spend a full day here along with hiking

History and Highlights

​Mt. Ryuo​ is a 575-meter-high mountain located in Saijo-cho, Higashihiroshima City. The mountain is situated within Ikoi no Mori Park and is cherished as a familiar, easily accessible mountain for hiking. Near the summit is the First Observation Deck, which offers sweeping views of the townscape of Saijo and the Saijo Basin. On clear days, Mt. Noro in Kure City can be seen in the distance.

In spring, about 1,500 cherry trees planted near the First Observation Deck burst into bloom, and the area bustles with cherry blossom viewers. In summer, the fresh green foliage is beautiful, and on New Year's Day, many people visit to watch the first sunrise of the year. At the foot of the mountain in Ikoi no Mori Park, there are children's play areas, multipurpose open spaces, and campsites, allowing visitors to spend a full day combining hiking with other activities.

Viewing and Experience Highlights

• ​Views from the First Observation Deck​​: From the First Observation Deck near the summit, the townscape of Saijo and the surrounding Saijo Basin unfold before you. On days with clear air, the distant mountain ridges can also be viewed.
• ​Spring Cherry Blossom Forest​​: Around 1,500 cherry trees are planted on the slopes near the observation deck, dyeing the surrounding area in shades of cherry pink during the blossoming season. With benches and restrooms nearby, visitors can take a break while enjoying the flowers.
• ​Ikoi no Mori Park at the Foot of the Mountain​​: The park features a children's plaza, multipurpose open space, day-camping area, forest campsite, and auto-camping site. Families can enjoy relaxing in the plazas before or after hiking, or combine their visit with camping.

Visiting Tips

The hike begins from Ikoi no Mori Park at the foot of the mountain. There are several routes to the summit, taking approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. In addition to gentle paved trails where you can ascend at a relaxed pace, there are also steep dirt trails and stairs, so choose a route that matches your fitness level. Benches and restrooms are located throughout the park, allowing you to take breaks and climb at your own pace. Wearing comfortable walking shoes and keeping your return time in mind will ensure a pleasant visit.