Mt. Fukuchi

Name of route: Fukuchiyama Dam to Daito-no-taki waterfall Route

Mt. Fukuchi, a famous mountain in the Chikuho district, rises to approximately 901 meters. It is the highest peak in the Fukuchi mountain range among peaks including Mt. Shakudake, Mt. Kumotori and Mt. Takatori. Blessed with valleys, waterfalls, and forests, the mountain has a charm that never fades no matter how many times you climb it.
At the summit, the unobstructed 360-degree view on a clear day takes in Kitakyushu City, Genkai Sea, the Kuju Mountain Range, Hiraodai and the Onga River. This route, which uses the Fukuchiyama Dam as the trailhead, passes near the Daito-no-taki waterfall and is recommended for beginners who can also enjoy the refreshing negative ions.

Location data

Ryuo Gorge Camp Village

Ryuo Gorge Camp Village is a popular summer getaway in Nogata City, located at an altitude of 200m on the northern slopes of Mt. Fukuchi. With crystal-clear water flowing down the gorge and three waterfalls, this is a good place to cool off in the hot season. It is also renowned as a fantastic play area for kids.

■Amenities
Parking: Yes / Toilets: Yes / Water station: Yes / Camping: Yes
■Address
184 Kamitonno, Nogata City
■Operating season
Camp village open: Second Friday in July to end of August
Parking and toilets may be used out of season.
■Telephone Number
0949-25-2156(Outside season: Nogata City Commerce and Tourism Division)
0949-26-0141(In season: Ryuo Gorge Operating Committee)

Sightseeing information

Mt. Fukuchi Flower Park

Spread across 30,000 square meters at the foot of Mt. Fukuchi, visitors can delight in seasonal blooms of every color including daffodils and lilies. Fun events are held in each season and everybody young and old can enjoy the picnic atmosphere.

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Torino Shrine

This ancient shrine on the trail to Mt. Takatori and Mt. Fukuchi has its trailhead and torii gate near Uchigaso Dam. Originating at the summit of Mt. Fukuchi in the late 7th century, the main shrine was rebuilt in its current location in about 1656. The stone shrine at the mountaintop remains in place and continues to look after climbers to this day. From the torii gate at the trailhead to the main shrine, natural stone steps ascend through the forest. The ancient giant trees towering on either side of the path evoke a reverent atmosphere.
Yamajiro (mountain castle)/Takatori Castle

Takatori Castle was one of six castles built by the first lord of the Fukuoka Domain, samurai Nagamasa Kuroda in the Warring States era (15th-16th century) and was erected atop the 620m-high Mt. Takatori. Today, it is the stone walls of the castle that remain.

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Momiji no Mori Park

This park covers about 30,000 square meters at the foot of Mt. Fukuchi and in around mid-November some 300 Japanese maples turn bright red. Excellent paths make this the perfect spot for a walk in the autumn. Nearby Fukuchi Sanroku Hana Koen Park is another location to enjoy the autumnal foliage and flowers of various types.

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Nogata pottery and crafts

From around the 1600s, the earthenware made around the foot of Mt. Takatori was known as "Takatori-yaki". Back then, it is said that climbing kilns were used to make much of the pottery. Today, there are three kilns firing Takatori-yaki ceramics. There are plenty of other potters and craft studios, and the Takatori Pottery Festival is held every spring and autumn.

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