Tsurugisan

Tsurugisan Quasi-National Park protects 21,486 hectares of rugged mountain terrain in Tokushima Prefecture on the island of Shikoku, Japan. Designated in 1964, the park centers on Mount Tsurugi (1,955 meters), Shikoku second-highest peak, and encompasses dramatic mountainous landscapes including steep ridges, deep gorges, pristine forests, and alpine vegetation. The park name derives from Mount Tsurugi, which means sword mountain, referencing its sharp, blade-like ridgelines. The mountain has long held spiritual significance in Japanese culture. The area features spectacular scenery including the Iya Valley, one of Japan deepest gorges.

Mount Tsurugi and the surrounding mountains have been revered in Japanese spiritual traditions for over a millennium, with early Buddhist monks and Shugendo practitioners considering the peak sacred. The Iya Valley extreme isolation helped preserve traditional culture, including construction of vine bridges made from mountain vines. The area natural beauty and botanical diversity began attracting scientific attention in the modern period. Recognition of these natural and cultural values led to designation as Tsurugisan Quasi-National Park on March 3, 1964. Development of roads and tourism infrastructure through the late 20th century made the park increasingly accessible.

Tsurugisan Quasi-National Park is moderately accessible from Tokushima city (approximately 2-3 hours by car) and other Shikoku locations. The Mount Tsurugi area can be accessed via the Tsurugi Skyline toll road. The famous Iya Valley, with its dramatic gorges and traditional culture, is reached via narrow, winding roads. Accommodation options include traditional mountain lodges and minshuku guesthouses in valley villages. Hiking trails throughout the park range from easy valley walks to challenging ridge routes. Hot springs in the region provide relaxation after hiking.

Conservation at Tsurugisan Quasi-National Park focuses on protecting the area alpine ecosystems, forest biodiversity, and traditional cultural landscapes. Alpine vegetation protection is a priority, with Mount Tsurugi summit areas supporting rare and endemic plant species vulnerable to trampling from hikers. Forest ecosystem management addresses the health of the park diverse woodland communities. The park supports populations of Japanese black bears, serow, and diverse bird communities. Cultural landscape preservation in the Iya Valley balances protecting traditional architecture, vine bridges, and agricultural terraces with the needs of aging populations in remote villages.