Mt. Kanpu

Mount Kanpu (Kanpuzan) is a stratovolcano in Oga City, Akita Prefecture, with an elevation of 355 meters. In the past, it was also known as Tsuma-koiyama or Habukikazeyama. The summit area is divided into two sections due to slope failure, and it is sometimes counted as one of the Oga Three Mountains. With its gentle, grass-covered slopes and few nearby obstacles, the entire mountain is well known as a popular paragliding spot. From the rotating observation deck at the summit, you can enjoy a sweeping panorama: to the east lies the Hachirogata Reclaimed Land, to the south the Sea of Japan and the elegant silhouette of Mt. Chokai, and from west to north you can take in the Nishi-Kita coastal line stretching all the way to Nyudozaki. It is a scenic viewpoint where you can savor 360-degree views in every direction. Besides the rotating observation deck, the summit also has a Hachirogata reference museum. Inside the rotating observation deck building, the 1st floor features a souvenir shop and restaurant, the 2nd floor is an exhibition hall, the 3rd floor is a materials gallery introducing specimens and cultural items related to the Oga Peninsula’s history, nature, and geography, and the 4th floor is the rotating observation floor. The observation floor makes one full rotation in about 13 minutes, and it is popular because you can enjoy the scenery while seated on a bench. Note that from early December to late March, the facility closes for the winter season, and both the observation deck and restaurant are not available. Access to Mount Kanpu is about a 20-minute drive from JR Oga Station.