Kaguyama

Overview

Kaguyama is a mountain located in Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture, and is one of the Yamato Sanzan, along with Unebiyama and Miminashiyama. At 152.4 meters, it's the second-lowest of the three, but unlike the other two which are solitary peaks, Kaguyama sits at the edge of the Ryumon mountain range extending from Tawabu-mine, giving it more the impression of a hill. However, it has been revered as the most sacred of the three mountains since ancient times, even bearing the honorific title of "Heaven." Kaguyama has also long been known as a source of clay used in ancient Shinto rituals. The summit boasts two types of earth: "Akahani," formed from weathered gabbro, and "Shirahani," found at the foot of the mountain. Both were used in sacred ceremonies. Kaguyama is home to numerous historically significant temples and shrines, including Kokuzuryu Shrine (dedicated to Kokuzuryu-no-mikoto), Amakaguyasan Shrine (dedicated to Kushinada-hime, the goddess of divination), and Ama-no-Iwato Shrine (associated with the legend of Amaterasu's hiding in the Heavenly Rock Cave). From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Unebiyama. Kaguyama has inspired countless poems in the Manyoshu, as well as appearing in the Kokinshu and Hyakunin Isshu, showcasing its enduring popularity. Surrounded by history and nature, Kaguyama is a must-visit destination in Nara.