Akasakayama or Mt. Akasaka (alt. 824m) is located in Makino, northern part of Takashima City. From the summit, you can overlook Lake Biwa, and if the weather conditions permit, you can see a part of the Sea of Japan on the north-western side. It can be accessed on a day trip from Kyoto and is a popular mountain for tourists as a day trip mountain climbing spot.
The mountains on the east side of Lake Biwa are made of andesite, and the mountains on the west side are made of granite. For this reason, the sand on the beach on the east side of Lake Biwa has a blackish color, while the sand on the beach on the west side, such as Takashima town's beach, is white.
Although it is the biggest lake in Japan, it is strange why there is such a difference between the east and west of the same lake. From a geological point of view, it is presumed to be due to the displacement and movement of the strata for tens of thousands of years. When you climb Mt. Akasaka, there are many places where granite rocks are exposed, and you can feel the history of Lake Biwa, which was created in ancient times. At all times, mountains have a mysterious power to attract mountaineers.
If you climb the mountain normally, you will reach the summit of Mt. Akasaka in 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. On the other hand, it takes about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes to go down the mountain. Although the trail is relatively narrow, it is well maintained and suitable for beginners.
If you are not a fan of climbing mountains, there is a relatively gentle walking path called "Therapy Road" at the foot of the mountain. At the end of the path, there is a waterfall called "Chosi-ga-taki", literally "Rhythm waterfall" (18m of height, photo above). You can enjoy the fresh and refreshing air. After climbing or trekking, you can relax and relieve your fatigue at the hot springs at the foot of the mountain.
According to Japanese mythology, ancient gods dug up this land to create Lake Biwa 4 million years ago. After that, the excavated soil was piled up in the eastern country to make Mt. Fuji. In this way, the two major symbols of Japan, Lake Biwa and Mt. Fuji, were born. Standing on the summit of Mt. Akasaka, you can think of such an ancient story.
You can reach JR Makino Station by train from Kyoto Station, and from JR Makino Station to the trailhead of Mt. Akasaka, take a bus and get off at "Makino Kogen Onsen Sarasa" (Sarasa, hot spring on the Makino Plateau). It is a hot spring that locals like, not a tourist destination. You can also eat and buy some souvenirs. Please come to Mt. Akasaka for your one-day trek.
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