Enjoy trekking in the magnificent natural forest of Mt! How to get there from Onna Village, where the Blue Cave is an attraction.
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What kind of place is Mt.
Mt. Atsuta (熱田岳) is a 160-meter-high mountain located in Onna Village, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Prefecture. Its hilly area is maintained as the Okinawa Prefectural Forest, where a variety of outdoor activities are available.
Familiar to nearby residents as a familiar natural feature, it is possible to climb the mountain along a well-maintained path. The northern part of Okinawa Prefecture, including Mt. Atsuta, is known as the "Yanbaru Forest," a unique natural treasure trove.
There are only about three places in the world that have a subtropical climate that tends to be dry, yet are blessed with abundant rainfall and broad evergreen forests. The flora and fauna from the time when the area was separated from the continent by crustal movement many years ago still remain, preserving a unique ecosystem that is often referred to as the Galapagos of the East.
When one thinks of nature in Okinawa, the first thing that comes to mind may be the ocean.
However, it is the mountains and forests of Yanbaru that tell us that there is more to it than just that. The area around Mt. Atsuta is a place where you can enjoy an environment that is a condensed version of such attractions.
Directions from Onna Village and Naha Airport
The Okinawa Prefectural Forest, which includes Mt. Atsuta, is located in Atuso, Onna Village.
From Naha Airport, it is located northward on Prefectural Road No. 88 and National Road No. 58 from the Yaka IC of the Okinawa Expressway, about an hour's drive.
Attraction of mountain climbing at Mt.
Now, let me introduce you to the charms of mountain climbing at Mt.
Feel the grandeur of nature!
At 160 meters above sea level, it may seem inadequate for those accustomed to mountaineering.
However, Mt. Atsuta has more to offer than just its height. The real thrill of going step by step through subtropical evergreen forests, which are usually unseen, is exceptional. There is a small stream near the trail, where you can encounter rare plants such as the lizard's hego.
There are as many as 250 species of plants, mainly Japanese knotweed, growing wild in the area. In addition to plants, visitors may encounter insects and other small animals.
There is a cicada called the Oshima cicada, and many people are surprised to hear its call different from the others. You may also see the cute Kinobori lizards. If you see a creature that interests you, take a picture and record it, or stop by the attached Forest Study Exhibition Hall and Forest Science Museum (under renovation until 2022).
It is an experience that will increase your new knowledge and expand your world.
We invite you to feel the concentrated essence of the region's nature.
A panoramic view of the inevitably impressive
Once you pass through the trail surrounded by dense trees and reach the ridge line, the view opens up at once. At Atsuta-dake, it is possible to see the ocean from the top of the mountain. It is a unique opportunity to see the beautiful blue ocean and sky while climbing a mountain.
Even though the altitude is low, the high temperatures and strong ultraviolet rays can make the climb very strenuous.
However, the scenery is more than worth the fatigue. Along the trail, a flower garden has been created where visitors can walk and admire the flowers of the four seasons. The beauty of the kakuran, azalea, and iju flowers is exceptional.
Once you reach this point, the summit is just around the corner.
You will feel as if you are walking on a heavenly path.
Feel a sense of accomplishment.
Now, the summit of Mt. Atsuta, but there is no summit marker.
There is a walking trail that circles around the summit, and the summit is often considered reached at that point. If you really want to feel that you have reached the summit, you need to identify the summit by checking it against a detailed topographic map.
It is a slightly different accomplishment from ordinary mountain climbing, but it is a mountain that is as fun as solving a riddle. There are three different trails to climb Mt. Atsuta, differing in distance and time required.
It may be a good idea to repeat the trip on different routes. There are also trekking trails along the mountain stream, so it is possible to walk mainly along the pleasant waterfront.
It will give you a refreshed sense of accomplishment.
What to wear and what to bring when climbing a mountain
Let's take a look at what to look for when climbing mountains in Okinawa. Mountains in Okinawa are generally low in elevation and easy to climb while sightseeing.
However, the area is home to many dangerous creatures such as hubs, wasps, African mai-mai, scorpions, and leeches. In addition, there are many plants of the poison ivy family, which can cause rashes and sores just by touching them.
Wear a hat, gloves, and long-sleeved, long-breasted trekking clothes to protect your skin. Bring a poison remover to help in case of emergency.
Also, there are no water stations on the trail, so bring plenty of drinking water. Some of the slopes are steep, and the UV rays are strong and the temperature can easily rise, so do not let your guard down just because it is a low mountain.
Some places are designated as Yanbaru National Park or Okinawa Coast National Park.
Please refrain from collecting plants and animals and take your garbage home with you.
Enjoy a comfortable trip with a rental car!
We'll also make reservations in advance for car rentals, which fill up quickly!
↓Click here for more information.
Two recommended trekking tours
Here are two of our recommended trekking tours.
Let's proceed through the jungle! Tha Waterfall Trekking
Ta Falls is a waterfall located upstream of the Henan River in Ogimi Village, Okinawa Prefecture. It was named "Ta" Falls, meaning "two," because of the two separate streams of water. The waterfall itself is rare on the main island of Okinawa, and a wide variety of waterside plants and animals can be seen.
The area around Tha Falls has no boardwalks or fences, and the tour is well known for its unspoiled nature. What to do if there are no paths is to go river trekking through the river.
Although the itinerary is thrilling, you will be accompanied by a guide who knows the local nature very well, so you can enjoy the tour with peace of mind. The tour is not tiring as you will be floating on the water.
Unlike activities in the ocean, your body does not get sticky, so it is easy to move on to your next destination. Enjoy the wilderness of the jungle by jumping into a deep waterfall basin or observing underwater creatures.
Forest bathing + trekking in forests with subtropical plants
This tour is recommended for those who feel like exploring, but would also like to enjoy Okinawa's nature in a more peaceful way. This tour focuses on forest bathing therapy, and you can enjoy a relaxing walk while feeling the breath of the trees.
The benefits of forest bathing in subtropical, evergreen forests include relaxation, mindfulness, and improved stress coping skills, all of which are essential for living in the modern world.
The forest bathing on this tour is said to have effects that last up to a month. Also included is a drink and a snack.
Visitors can take a break through the forest, feel the murmuring of the river, and enjoy the richness of nature using all five senses.
There are also plans that combine yoga for a more in-depth therapeutic experience.
summary
We hope you enjoyed our introduction to trekking tours in and around Mt.
This is especially recommended for those who have been to Okinawa many times and would like to experience something different.
Mountain climbing may seem like a hurdle, but with a tour accompanied by a guide, you can be a little more adventurous.
Some tours have a minimum number of one person.
Do not hesitate to ask any questions or concerns you may have to make your trip memorable!
