[Oku-Oi] From Chishayama and Tenguishiyama to Oku-Oi Kojo Station | A traverse connecting the Kawane Trail and a scenic station

I love the time spent walking along quiet ridgelines.

This time, I walked a course that goes from Chishayama, over Tenguishiyama, and down to Oku-Oi Kojo Station.

The weather forecast was clear skies.

I was looking forward to the view of Oku-Oi Kojo Station floating on Lake Sesso.

However, due to the muddy waters left behind by the previous day's typhoon, the lake was milk-tea colored instead of a vibrant blue (lol).

Even so, as I actually walked it, it became a mountain trip where I felt that each day's scenery has its own unique charm.

Introduction

Chishayama and Tenguishiyama are among the representative mountains of the Kawane Trail in Kawanehon Town.

While they are not famous 100 Famous Mountains, they are appealing for their beautiful natural forest ridgelines and quiet atmosphere.

This time, I started walking from Senzu Station, crossed over Chishayama and Tenguishiyama, and took the route down to Oku-Oi Kojo Station.

In this article, I will introduce the following based on my actual experience:

・Course conditions

・Descent route to Oku-Oi Kojo Station

・How to use the Ikawa Line

・Information on mountain climbing tickets

I hope this will be helpful for those who want to walk the mountains of Oku-Oi.

What are Chishayama and Tenguishiyama?

Chishayama (1,291m) and Tenguishiyama (1,367m) are mountains located in Kawanehon Town, Shizuoka Prefecture.

Both are on the Kawane Trail route, and you can walk along well-maintained mountain trails.

They are not mountains where you can enjoy grand panoramic views from the summit, but they retain much of their natural forest, making for a very pleasant hike, especially during the seasons of fresh green leaves or autumn foliage. Also, because you can descend to Oku-Oi Kojo Station, it is easy to combine mountain climbing with sightseeing. Personally, I think they are mountains typical of Oku-Oi where you can feel the joy of walking through a quiet forest.

Hiking Summary

Region: Oku-Oi (Shizuoka Prefecture)
Mountain Names: Chisha-yama / Tenguishi-yama
Date: June 4, 2023
Weather: Sunny

Course:

Senzu Station -> Chisha-yama Trailhead -> Chisha-yama -> Tenguishi-yama -> Tenguishi-yama North Peak -> Oku-Oi Kojo Station -> Ikawa Line -> Senzu Station

Activity Data

Distance: 15.0 km
Cumulative Elevation Gain: 1,409 m
Actual Activity Time: 7 hours 28 minutes

Standard Course Time: 8 hours 46 minutes
Physical Difficulty: ★★★☆☆

Recommendation Rating: ★★★★☆

Recommended for

・Those who enjoy quiet forest walks
・Those who want to hike to Oku-Oi Kojo Station
・Those who want to enjoy both hiking and local railways

Overall Course Map

This is a traverse route that goes from Senzu Station, over Chisha-yama and Tenguishi-yama, and descends to Oku-Oi Kojo Station.

After descending, you can return to Senzu Station via the Ikawa Line.

Reason for choosing this mountain

I had wanted to hike to Oku-Oi Kojo Station for a long time.

Since I was going, I wanted to arrive by crossing the mountains rather than just sightseeing.

That is why I chose this route.

The Kawane Trail was also an area I had been interested in for a while.

Walking through a quiet forest and returning by train at the end.

I started walking, looking forward to a day that felt just like Oku-Oi.

Course overview and impressions

Senzu Station to Chisha-yama

From Senzu Station, I crossed the Oi River and headed toward the Chisha-yama trailhead.

From the trailhead, it was a continuous climb.

The Hydrangea serrata were starting to bloom, making me feel the change of seasons.

True to this mountain region, I also encountered land leeches.

It is reassuring to have countermeasures when hiking here.

Chisha-yama to Tenguishi-yama

The area around Chisha-yama has beautiful natural forests, and from the summit, I could see Mt. Takayama and the Muso Mountains.

The traverse to Tenguishi-yama was also pleasant, with plenty of ghost plants (Monotropastrum humile) along the way.

It may not be a flashy landscape, but I think it is an irresistible section for those who love quiet forest walks.

Tenguishi-yama to Oku-Oi Kojo Station

During the descent, I was happy the moment I caught a glimpse of the Ikawa Line train through the gaps in the trees.

The atmosphere of a tourist spot gradually drew closer.

Upon arriving at Oku-Oi Kojo Station, there was a lively atmosphere completely different from the hike.

Looking back at the ridge I had walked, I felt a sense of accomplishment.

Oku-Oi Kojo Station to Senzu Station

I enjoyed the famous lake-view curry and took the Abt-system train to Senzu Station.

The train journey while viewing the Nagashima Dam was also a pleasant time.

Finally, I received my mountaineering ticket at the Kawanehon Town Tourism Association and headed home, feeling satisfied.

Course Conditions and Precautions

Parking

Use the Roadside Station Otogi no Sato

Mountain Trail

Maintained as the Kawane Trail
Signposts available
Generally easy to walk

Precautions

Take precautions during the season when land leeches appear
Tickets cannot be purchased at Oku-Oi Kojo Station
Purchase tickets from the conductor on the train
The Ikawa Line has few trains, so checking the schedule in advance is recommended

Course Summary

Risk of getting lost: ★★☆☆☆

Physical strength required: ★★★☆☆

Dangerous sections: ★★☆☆☆

Views: ★★★☆☆

Tranquility: ★★★★★

Recommended season: April to June, October to November

*As of June 2023

Related Articles

▶ [Oku-Oi] From Kurishiro-yama to Omori Station | A 19km traverse descending to a remote station with no roads or cell service

▶ The day I crossed a mountain just to go to Omori Station | To a remote station with no roads or cell service

Reflections

Chisha-yama and Tenguishi-yama are not mountains with flashy views.

Even so, there is a quietness to the natural forest and the joy of seeing Oku-Oi Kojo Station appear after your hike.

I believe that hiking in the mountains is not just about the summit.

Walking through the forest, gazing at the scenery, and looking back on the day while being swayed by the train.

That kind of time was also one of the joys of the mountains.

Conclusion

Focusing on the mountains of Shizuoka,
I walk the ridgelines every weekend.

Rather than flashy mountains,
I prefer quiet mountains, deep mountains, and hikes where I have to read the conditions.

▶ Magazine "One Mountain at a Time, Hiking Records"

If you like mountains,
I would be happy if you followed me.

Until the next mountain record.