【Yama no Susume】Tenranzan (Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture)
Tenranzan, located in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, is a sacred site beloved by many fans as an important setting in the popular anime “Yama no Susume.” Despite being a low mountain with an elevation of 197 meters, it is supported by a wide range of people—from beginner climbers to sacred site pilgrims—thanks to its excellent accessibility from the urban center, abundant nature, and the charm of experiencing the world depicted in the work. This article provides detailed explanations of Tenranzan’s attractions, climbing courses, access methods, and tips for sacred site pilgrimage.
The Relationship Between Yama no Susume and Tenranzan
“Yama no Susume” is an anime series based on the manga work by Shiro. It tells the story of Aoi, an indoor-type protagonist, who is invited by her childhood friend Hinata to start climbing mountains and awakens to the charm of mountains. The setting of the work, Hanno City in Saitama Prefecture, is known for featuring many real locations.
Tenranzan appears from the first episode of the work and is depicted as the first mountain that Aoi and Hinata climb together after reuniting. It is the place that serves as the turning point for the main characters to learn the joy of mountain climbing and can be said to be the origin of the story. In the anime, the views from the summit and the state of the climbing trail are depicted carefully, making it a standard spot for sacred site pilgrimage as viewers can re-experience the scenes from the work when visiting in person.
Basic Information and History of Tenranzan
Overview of Tenranzan
Tenranzan is a low mountain in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture with an elevation of 197 meters. It forms part of the Oku-Musashi Nature Trail and is cherished by residents as a symbolic existence of Hanno City. The time required to reach the summit from the trailhead is approximately 20–30 minutes, making it popular as a mountain that even beginner climbers and families with children can easily climb.
From the summit, you can see the entire Hanno cityscape and, on clear days, even Tokyo Skytree and Mount Fuji. This magnificent view captivates many climbers. The ability to enjoy nature in each season is also a major attraction of Tenranzan, allowing visitors to enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, autumn foliage in fall, and clear-air climbing in winter.
The Origin of Tenranzan’s Name
The name Tenranzan has historical background. In the 16th year of the Meiji era (1883), the then Crown Prince (later the Taisho Emperor) supervised maneuvers of the Imperial Guards on this mountain, which led to it being called “Tenranzan.” Before that, it was reportedly called “Atagoyama.”
This historical episode demonstrates that Tenranzan had long been recognized as an important place in the region. Even today, there is Nin’oji Temple at the base of the mountain and statues of the Sixteen Arhats on the middle section, showing that it also serves as a mountain of faith.
Detailed Access Methods to Tenranzan
Access by Train
Access to Tenranzan is convenient by public transportation. The nearest station is “Hanno Station” on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, which offers excellent accessibility from the urban center.
From Ikebukuro Station to Hanno Station:
- Seibu Ikebukuro Line Limited Express “Chichibu”: approximately 40 minutes
- Seibu Ikebukuro Line Rapid: approximately 50 minutes
- Local trains: approximately 70 minutes
From Hanno Station to the Tenranzan trailhead is approximately 20–25 minutes on foot. Exiting from the North Exit and passing through the city center toward Nin’oji Temple, you’ll find signboards and character panels from “Yama no Susume” along the way, allowing you to enjoy sacred site pilgrimage while walking.
Access by Car and Parking Information
By car, you can access the area in approximately 20–30 minutes from the “Sayama Hidaka IC” or “Ome IC” on the Kan-Etsu Expressway.
Regarding parking:
- Civic Center Parking Lot: The public parking lot closest to the Tenranzan trailhead (free)
- Hanno Central Park Parking Lot: Somewhat distant but has more capacity
- Nin’oji Temple Parking Lot: Primarily for worshippers, though climbers may use it in some cases
On weekends, during autumn foliage season, and during anime-related events, parking lots can become congested, so early arrival is recommended. There are also several coin parking options around Hanno Station.
Detailed Climbing Course Guide for Tenranzan
Standard Course (Via Nin’oji Temple)
The most common course is the route via Nin’oji Temple heading to the summit. This is the classic route also depicted in “Yama no Susume” and is perfect for sacred site pilgrimage.
Course Overview:
- From the North Exit of Hanno Station, proceed through the city toward Nin’oji Temple (approximately 20 minutes on foot)
- Pass through the Nin’oji Temple grounds to the trailhead
- Pass by the Sixteen Arhats statues on the middle section
- Arrive at the summit observation platform (approximately 20–30 minutes from the trailhead)
Time Required: Round trip approximately 1–1.5 hours (including rest)
Difficulty Level: Beginner (safe even for inexperienced climbers)
Distance: Approximately 1 km one way
The trail is well-maintained, with stairs and handrails installed on steep sections. However, the trail can become slippery after rain, so shoes with good grip are recommended.
Points of Interest on the Middle Section: The Sixteen Arhats Statues
On the middle section of the trail, there are statues of the Sixteen Arhats carved into a rock face. These stone Buddhas, reportedly carved during the Edo period, are important cultural properties that reflect Tenranzan’s history. They appear in a scene in “Yama no Susume” and have become a popular photo spot for many fans.
The area around the Arhat statues is somewhat open and suitable for resting. It is approximately 10–15 minutes from here to the summit.
The Charm and View from the Summit
Tenranzan’s summit is relatively spacious with an observation platform. Though the elevation is only 197 meters, with no tall buildings in the vicinity, it offers a wonderful view.
Main sights visible from the summit:
- Full panoramic view of Hanno city
- Mountains of Oku-Musashi (Toyomineyama, Izugawatake, etc.)
- Mount Fuji to the west (on clear days)
- Tokyo Skytree to the southeast (if conditions are favorable)
- Mountains toward Chichibu
In “Yama no Susume,” Aoi and Hinata have an emotional reunion scene at the summit, with the beautiful views depicted accordingly. Actually visiting and seeing the same scenery will deepen your understanding of the work.
A rest house and benches are installed at the summit, making it ideal for eating a packed lunch or taking a break. On weekends, many climbers gather, but weekdays are relatively quiet.
Tips for Yama no Susume Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Main Scenes Appearing in the Work
Tenranzan appears as an important setting in the first episode of “Yama no Susume.” The main scenes include:
Important scenes from Episode 1:
- The scene where Aoi and Hinata plan to climb Tenranzan
- The trailhead area near Nin’oji Temple
- A rest scene at the Sixteen Arhats statues
- An emotional view scene at the summit
- A scene of satisfaction after descending
These scenes faithfully depict real locations, and visiting them allows you to experience the emotion of “This is where that scene took place!”
Recommended Photography Spots for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
When visiting for sacred site pilgrimage, here are recommended spots for commemorative photos:
- In front of Nin’oji Temple’s main gate: As the starting point of the climb
- Signboard at the trailhead: A sign also appearing in the work
- Sixteen Arhats statues: Middle section rest point
- Summit observation platform: The most important sacred site spot
- Compass at the summit: Equipment for confirming the view
When photographing, be considerate of other climbers. The summit can be crowded on weekends, so a spirit of mutual consideration is important.
Related Spots Within Hanno City
Beyond Tenranzan, there are many sacred sites from “Yama no Susume” throughout Hanno City:
Main sacred site spots:
- Hanno Station area (frequently appearing in the work)
- Hanno Ginza shopping street
- Hanno riverside (riverbed along the Iruma River)
- Kannon Temple (near the model of Aoi’s house)
- Toyomineyama (elevation 271m, reachable by traverse from Tenranzan)
If you have extra time, visiting these spots before or after climbing Tenranzan will make for a more fulfilling sacred site pilgrimage. The Hanno City Tourist Information Office distributes sacred site maps for “Yama no Susume.”
Clothing and Gear for Tenranzan Climbing
Recommended Clothing
While Tenranzan is a low mountain with a short climbing time, appropriate clothing ensures safe and comfortable climbing.
Basic clothing:
- Easy-to-move-in clothing (stretch pants rather than jeans are recommended)
- Quick-dry materials (cotton is avoided as it causes chilling from sweat)
- Layered clothing (for temperature adjustment)
- Hat (sun protection, protection from branches)
- Hiking boots or trekking shoes (sneakers are acceptable if they have non-slip soles)
“Yama no Susume” features a scene where Hinata gives Aoi advice on proper clothing. To safely enjoy the experience even as a beginner, it’s recommended to prepare basic gear.
Essential Items
Even for a short climb, prepare minimum necessary items:
Essential items:
- Drinking water (500ml or more)
- Towel, hand towel
- Trail snacks (chocolate, candy, etc.)
- Smartphone (map apps, emergency contact)
- Coins (for vending machines)
- Plastic bag (for carrying trash)
Convenient to have:
- Camera (for commemorative photos of sacred site pilgrimage)
- Picnic sheet (for resting at the summit)
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent spray (in summer)
- Basic first aid kit (band-aids, etc.)
- Rain gear (if weather is uncertain)
Seasonal Ways to Enjoy Tenranzan
Spring (March–May)
Spring on Tenranzan is beautiful with new greenery and cherry blossoms. From late March to early April, cherry blossoms bloom around Nin’oji Temple and along the trail, allowing you to enjoy flower-viewing climbs.
Characteristics of spring:
- Cherry blossom blooms (late March–early April)
- Beauty of fresh greenery (mid-April–May)
- Pleasant temperature
- Bird songs
Spring is one of the most suitable seasons for beginner climbers. However, crowding is expected during the Golden Week period.
Summer (June–August)
Summer on Tenranzan offers deep green forests ideal for forest bathing. However, as temperatures rise, early morning climbing is recommended.
Characteristics of summer:
- Deep green forests
- Cool early morning hours are comfortable
- Cicada sounds
- Increased family visitors during summer vacation
Summer precautions:
- Heatstroke prevention (frequent water intake)
- Insect repellent measures
- Early morning or evening climbing recommended
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons on Tenranzan. From mid to late November, autumn foliage is at its peak, and the mountain is crowded with climbers.
Characteristics of autumn:
- Beautiful autumn foliage (mid to late November)
- Clear air provides excellent views
- Pleasant temperature
- Autumn flavors (enjoyable in Hanno City after descent)
The foliage season is particularly popular, and trails can be congested on weekends. Parking lots may also fill up early, so using public transportation or visiting early in the day is recommended.
Winter (December–February)
Winter on Tenranzan offers the clearest air and the best views of the season. The probability of seeing Mount Fuji and Skytree is highest in winter.
Characteristics of winter:
- Outstanding views
- Quiet hiking (fewer visitors)
- Beauty of clear winter days
- Natural beauty of frost and ice
Winter precautions:
- Cold weather protection (the summit may be windy)
- Early action necessary (sunset comes early)
- Watch for frost (especially early morning)
Traverse from Tenranzan to Toyomineyama
From Tenranzan’s summit, you can traverse further to Toyomineyama (elevation 271m). This mountain appears in later seasons of “Yama no Susume” and is recommended for those wanting to enjoy more serious climbing.
Traverse course overview:
- Tenranzan summit to Toyomineyama: approximately 40–50 minutes
- Has elevation changes, more serious than Tenranzan alone
- Toyomineyama summit also offers good views
- Descend toward Hanno Station or Hanno riverside
Time required: Approximately 2.5–3 hours from Tenranzan trailhead, over Toyomineyama, to descent
For those with confidence in their fitness or wanting longer climbing, definitely try the traverse.
Enjoyment After Descending
Gourmet Spots in Hanno City
One of the pleasures after climbing is local cuisine. Hanno City has many attractive dining establishments.
Recommended cuisine:
- Sui-to Poteto (a pastry shop that appears in “Yama no Susume”)
- Hanno udon (local specialty)
- Soba restaurants (featuring soba grown in Oku-Musashi’s clear waters)
- Cafes (numerous around Hanno Station)
In particular, “Sui-to Poteto” appears as an important location in the work and has become a standard sacred site pilgrimage spot.
Day-trip Hot Springs
To ease the fatigue from climbing, day-trip hot spring facilities in or near Hanno City are recommended.
Main hot spring facilities:
- Sawarabi-no-Yu (in Hanno City, natural hot spring)
- Miyazawa Lake Onsen Kirari Bettei (near Metsä Village)
- Chiisana Tabi Kawagoe Onsen (approximately 30 minutes by car)
Refreshing in these facilities before heading home is also a nice option.
Relaxing at Hanno Riverside
If you have extra time, spending leisurely time at Hanno riverside (riverbed along the Iruma River) is recommended. The location appears in camping scenes in “Yama no Susume” and offers river play and barbecue (in designated areas).
Safety Precautions for Safe Climbing
Basic Climbing Etiquette
Though Tenranzan is beginner-friendly, basic climbing etiquette should be observed:
- Always take trash with you
- Greet those you pass
- Uphill has priority (downhill hikers yield the path)
- Do not pick plants
- Stay on designated trails
- Avoid loud noise (consideration for nature and other climbers)
Emergency Response
In case of injury or health problems:
- Emergency contacts: 110 (police) or 119 (fire department)
- How to give location information: Clearly state “Tenranzan in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture”
- For mountain rescue: Contact the Saitama Police Mountain Rescue Team
Tenranzan is close to urban areas and has good cell phone coverage, making emergency contact relatively easy. However, taking risks is not advisable. The judgment to descend early if feeling unwell is important.
Weather Precautions
Weather awareness is necessary when climbing Tenranzan:
- Rainy days: Avoid challenging climbs as trails become slippery
- Lightning: The summit is open; descend immediately if thunderclouds approach
- Approaching typhoons: Cancel climbing plans
- Winter frost: Take special care early in the morning
Check weather forecasts beforehand, and maintain flexibility to reschedule if bad weather is predicted.
Message to Yama no Susume Fans
Tenranzan, a sacred site of “Yama no Susume,” is a special place for fans of the work. It is the mountain where Aoi and Hinata first climbed together and the place that motivated many viewers to think, “I want to try climbing a mountain too.”
Actually visiting Tenranzan not only deepens your understanding of the work but also allows you to experience the joy of climbing and the wonders of nature. Despite being a low mountain at 197 meters, the views from its summit and the sense of achievement from climbing are by no means small.
Hanno City actively promotes information as a sacred site of “Yama no Susume,” with character panels and information boards placed throughout the city. Local residents also warmly welcome sacred site pilgrims.
Please refer to this article, visit Tenranzan, and experience firsthand the emotion that Aoi and Hinata felt. And hopefully, let Tenranzan be the starting point for climbing many more mountains.
Summary: Taking Your First Steps in Mountain Climbing at Tenranzan
Tenranzan in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, is not only a sacred site of “Yama no Susume” but also an ideal mountain for beginners to safely start mountain climbing. With excellent accessibility from the urban center and short climbing time, you can easily visit.
Summary of Tenranzan’s attractions:
- An important setting in “Yama no Susume” Episode 1
- Elevation 197m, climbing time approximately 20–30 minutes—ideal for beginners
- Wonderful views from the summit
- Natural beauty in each season
- Excellent accessibility—approximately one hour from the urban center
- Traverse to Toyomineyama also possible
- Numerous sacred site spots throughout Hanno City
Even those without climbing experience can safely enjoy it with proper preparation and basic etiquette. Like Aoi in “Yama no Susume,” many people awaken to the charm of mountains starting with Tenranzan.
Why not visit Tenranzan on a weekend or holiday, re-experience the anime’s world, and refresh yourself in nature? We hope Tenranzan becomes your first step in mountain climbing.
Enjoy your wonderful time on Tenranzan safely and happily, with love for the work.
