Must-visit among Japan’s Three Great Oddities on Shōdoshima: Climb Mount Kankakei for Stunning Views of the Seto Inland Sea

▲ Ascend one of Japan’s Three Great Oddities, Mount Kankakei, to admire the renowned Seto Inland Sea of Shōdoshima. (Photo / Provided by Eastern TV Travel, the same below)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Mount KankakeiLocated in the center of Shōdoshima, it was formed by volcanic activity 13 million years ago, resulting in spectacular rugged rocks and stones. With distinct seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and serene winter landscapes—each visit offers a unique experience. In 1923, Mount Kankakei was designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty and incorporated into the Seto Inland Sea National Park, becoming widely renowned as one of its representative sights.

The most important thing here is to take the ropeway up to the mountaintop observation deck for breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea. Of course, you can also choose the hiking trail and enjoy an intimate hour-long journey through Mount Kankakei Park.

Take the ropeway up the mountain for stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea!
The round-trip ropeway fare is only 1,350 yen. Departing from Kōun-tei Station, it takes about five minutes to reach the summit. Depending on the season, except during the maple leaf viewing period when the first departure is at 8:00 AM, the first ride daily is at 8:36 AM. Also, be mindful of the last descent time—the final ride is at 5:00 PM (4:30 PM in winter). Operating year-round, a ropeway departs every 12 minutes, so you’ll hardly need to wait before heading up the mountain with ease. There’s also a one-day pass available. If you really love this place and want to ride the ropeway up and down repeatedly, consider purchasing it: 1,900 yen for adults and 950 yen for children.

Travelers worried about ropeway safety can rest assured—safety-obsessed Japanese really deliver. Since its operation began in 1963, there has never been a single accident here, guaranteeing absolute peace of mind in terms of quality and safety.

▲ This is the ropeway fare schedule and timetable.

▲ It only takes five minutes to reach the top from Kōun-tei Station.

▲ Looking down from the ropeway, you can gaze at the Seto Inland Sea.

▲ Mount Kankakei is one of Japan’s Top 100 Scenic Spots—you must see it.

▲ Arriving at the observation deck reveals a completely different view.

▲ Download the 10% discount coupon (print it and show it when purchasing tickets).

Alternative to the Ropeway – Hiking Trails

▲ Besides the five-minute ropeway ride, there are also several hiking routes to choose from.

If you have ample time and enjoy immersing yourself in nature, hiking up from Kōun-tei Station is also a great option. The trail isn’t far—approximately 2 kilometers of mountain path that takes just about an hour to walk. Compared to admiring the scenery from the ropeway, venturing deeper into the forest and among the peculiar rocks offers a different kind of charm. Walking along the Omote hiking trail, you’ll also pass by 12 scenic spots along the way.

▲ Omote Hiking Trail.

▲ Ura Hiking Trail.

Omote Hiking Trail
Walking Time/Distance: 1 hour / 2 km
Ura Hiking Trail
Walking Time/Distance: 1 hour / 1.8 km

Mount Kankakei
Address: 168 Kamikakechō, Shōdoshima-chō, Shōzu-gun, Kagawa
Phone: 0879-82-2171
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/kankakei/
Transportation: Take a bus from Kusakabe Port to Kōun Line Terminal Kōun-tei Station (approx. 15 minutes)

Special Notes
The entire Kasenkei area has been designated as a national park. Please be sure to follow the following rules:
1. Catching any animals is prohibited
2. Do not use any open flames in this area (including smoking)
3. Please take all trash back down the mountain with you

For a more detailed experience------Eastern TV Travel Shikoku Tour Itinerary

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