The Legend Behind the Name Gomadanzan
Mount Gomadanzan is associated with a fascinating legend from the Genpei War, the conflict between the Taira and Minamoto clans that shaped medieval Japanese history.
According to local traditions from the Kumano region, Taira no Koremori, a warrior of the Taira clan, fled to this remote area after the Battle of Ichi-no-Tani and is said to have hidden around the Komoritani Valley.
After learning that the Taira clan had been defeated at the Battle of Dan-no-Ura, Koremori is said to have burned goma-gi, or ritual wooden sticks used in Buddhist fire ceremonies, on the mountain and prayed while seeking an omen concerning the fate of the Taira family.
The name Gomadanzan is traditionally said to have originated from the “platform where the goma fire was burned.” The deep mountains of the Kii Peninsula are home to many legends about members of the defeated Taira clan who escaped into remote villages, and Gomadanzan is one of the places where this history and folklore continue to live on.
The Relationship Between Gomadanzan and Mount Ryujindake
For many years, Mount Gomadanzan was officially regarded as the highest mountain in Wakayama Prefecture. However, a resurvey conducted by the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan in 2000 revealed that a nearby peak approximately 700 meters to the east was actually about 10 meters higher.
The newly recognized summit was later named Mount Ryujindake through a public naming process and is now recognized as Wakayama Prefecture’s highest peak at 1,382 meters.
Despite this distinction, Gomadanzan and Ryujindake form part of essentially the same mountain area. Extensive natural forests, including beautiful beech woodland, cover the surrounding slopes. Well-maintained walking trails near the summits allow visitors to explore both peaks during the same outing.
A Scenic Drive Along the Koya-Ryujin Skyline
One of the best ways to experience Mount Gomadanzan is by driving along the Koya-Ryujin Skyline.
This approximately 42.7-kilometer mountain road connects the sacred Mount Koya with the famous Ryujin Onsen hot spring resort. The road follows the ridgelines of the Koya-Ryujin Quasi-National Park, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
On clear days, distant views may extend toward the Kii Channel and even the mountains of Shikoku. The scenery is especially impressive during the autumn foliage season, when the mountains are transformed into vivid shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Early in the morning, visitors may also encounter a sea of clouds drifting between the mountain peaks, creating an atmospheric and almost otherworldly landscape.
Although Wakayama is often associated with a mild, warm climate, the high elevation around Gomadanzan means that snow can fall during winter. Driving along the Skyline through a snow-covered mountain landscape offers an entirely different side of Wakayama.
Gomasan Sky Tower: A 360-Degree Mountain Panorama
A major landmark of the Gomadanzan area is the Gomasan Sky Tower, located approximately midway along the Koya-Ryujin Skyline.
The observation tower has a distinctive design resembling a stack of goma-gi, the wooden sticks traditionally burned during Buddhist fire rituals. Its design was inspired by the local legend of Taira no Koremori and his ritual fire on the mountain.
The tower stands 33 meters high and provides visitors with a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
To the east, visitors can see the Omine mountain range, while views to the west extend toward the Kii Channel. On exceptionally clear days, the mountains of Shikoku may also be visible in the distance.
The high elevation and clean mountain air also make the area an excellent place for stargazing. At night, visitors can enjoy a remarkably clear view of the stars, far from the light pollution of Japan’s major cities.
Highlights of Gomasan Sky Tower
33-meter observation tower: Enjoy panoramic views from the top of the tower.
Mountain scenery: Look across the vast landscapes of the Kii Mountains.
Distant views: On clear days, the mountains of Shikoku may be visible.
Stargazing: The high elevation and clear air provide excellent conditions for observing the night sky.
Local products: The facility offers regional specialties and souvenirs from Ryujin Village and the Kumano area.
Gomadanzan Nature Forest and Ancient Woodlands
The area around Mount Gomadanzan is covered by rich natural forests, particularly forests of beech and Japanese oak. Much of this environment is protected as the Gomadanzan Nature Forest and forms part of the Koya-Ryujin Quasi-National Park.
Walking trails pass through the forest, allowing visitors to enjoy the mountain environment without undertaking a demanding climb. Sunlight filtering through the beech trees creates a peaceful and almost magical atmosphere.
Each season brings a different landscape. Spring brings fresh green foliage, while summer offers a cool retreat from the heat of the lowlands. In autumn, the forest is transformed by brilliant foliage, and winter creates a quiet landscape covered in snow.
The forest is also home to numerous birds and small animals, making it an enjoyable destination for nature observation and forest bathing.
One of Japan’s Most Famous Rhododendron Gardens
At the Gomadanzan Forest Park Wildlife Area, approximately 60,000 rhododendrons have been planted. The garden is sometimes described as one of Japan’s largest rhododendron gardens.
When the flowers are in bloom, the mountain slopes are covered with colorful blossoms, creating an impressive seasonal landscape that attracts many visitors.
The park also includes an outdoor stage, open spaces, and a shop, making it a popular destination for families as well as nature lovers.
Spending time surrounded by flowers and mountain forests provides a relaxing experience that combines the beauty of the natural landscape with the refreshing atmosphere of the highlands.
Hiking Between Mount Gomadanzan and Mount Ryujindake
The area between Mount Gomadanzan and Mount Ryujindake features relatively accessible hiking trails. Because the road reaches close to the summit area, visitors can enjoy a mountain walk without committing to a long or technically difficult ascent.
The trails pass through natural woodland and offer changing scenery throughout the seasons. Along the way, several viewpoints provide opportunities to appreciate the vast scale of the Kii Mountains.
Hiking Course Overview
Walking distance: Approximately 9.6 kilometers
Walking time: Approximately 3 hours
Total elevation gain: Approximately 650 meters
Although the route is relatively accessible, mountain weather can change quickly, particularly at high elevations. Travelers should prepare appropriately for the season and check local conditions before setting out.
Combine Your Visit with Ryujin Onsen
A visit to Mount Gomadanzan pairs perfectly with a relaxing stay at nearby Ryujin Onsen.
Ryujin Onsen is famous as one of Japan’s “Three Beautifying Hot Springs”, a traditional designation referring to hot springs believed to be particularly beneficial for the skin. Its sodium-bicarbonate spring water is known for its smooth, gentle texture.
Open-air baths along the Hidaka River allow visitors to relax while enjoying views of the clear mountain stream. After hiking or driving through the mountains, soaking in the hot spring is an ideal way to finish the day.
Discover Local Flavors at Roadside Stations
Roadside Station Tanabe Ryujin Gomasan Sky Tower
Roadside Station Tanabe Ryujin Gomasan Sky Tower is a popular stop for local specialties and souvenirs. Visitors can find traditional wooden crafts, products from the Kumano region, and locally produced preserved foods.
Because it is located alongside the Gomasan Sky Tower, it is convenient to combine shopping and sightseeing with the panoramic views from the observation tower.
Roadside Station Ryujin: Mokuzokukan
Roadside Station Ryujin, also known as Mokuzokukan, is a warm and inviting facility filled with the natural aroma of wood. Visitors can enjoy local dishes and purchase regional specialties.
A suspension bridge next to the facility offers views of the Hidaka River and is also a popular place for taking photographs.
A Mountain Landscape for Every Season
Mount Gomadanzan offers a different experience throughout the year.
Spring brings fresh green leaves, while early summer is an especially beautiful season for rhododendrons. Summer provides a cool escape from the heat, autumn brings spectacular foliage, and winter transforms the mountains with snow.
Because of its elevation, the area has a noticeably cooler climate than much of Wakayama. Even during the height of summer, visitors can enjoy crisp, refreshing mountain air.
A Scenic Destination Rich in Nature and History
Mount Gomadanzan brings together many of the elements that make the Kii Peninsula special: the vast natural landscapes of the Kii Mountains, fascinating medieval legends, the historic connection between Koya and Kumano, and spectacular mountain-road scenery.
A journey along the Koya-Ryujin Skyline, followed by panoramic views from the observation tower, a peaceful walk through the beech forests, and a relaxing soak at Ryujin Onsen offers an unforgettable way to experience the natural and cultural richness of Kishu.
When visiting Tanabe and the surrounding area of Wakayama Prefecture, be sure to include Mount Gomadanzan in your itinerary. Here, magnificent mountain scenery, ancient forests, and legends from Japan’s medieval past come together to create a memorable experience in the heart of the Kii Peninsula.