Mt. Sanbe and Nishi-no-Hara: Highland Scenery Created by Shimane's Volcano and Autumn Pampas Grass Fields

Mt. Sanbe in Oda City, Shimane is an isolated peak at 1,126 meters elevation formed by volcanic activity approximately 10,000 years ago. Comprising four mountain bodies — male Sanbe, female Sanbe, child Sanbe, and grandchild Sanbe — it is known as the highest volcano in Shimane Prefecture.

Four Seasons of Nishi-no-Hara

"Nishi-no-Hara" spreading at Mt. Sanbe's base is a highland with vast grasslands. Particularly in autumn (September-November), pampas grass (susuki) spreads everywhere, and the scenery created by silver pampas swaying in the wind and Mt. Sanbe's silhouette is known as one of Shimane's representative spectacular views. Alpine plants including violets and potentilla bloom in spring, and cool highland breezes blow through in summer.

Mt. Sanbe Climbing

Mt. Sanbe has multiple climbing courses. The most common "Kita-no-Hara Course" reaches the summit of male Sanbe (1,126m) in approximately 2 hours. From the summit, spectacular panoramas of Mt. Daisen, Lake Shinji, and the Sea of Japan spread out.

Sanbe Natural Museum Sahimel

At Mt. Sanbe's base is the "Sanbe Natural Museum Sahimel." This facility for learning about Shimane's nature, geology, and starry skies also has a planetarium for enjoying the clear highland starry skies at night.

Access

About 40 minutes by Iwami Kotsu bus from JR Oda-shi Station to Nishi-no-Hara.