Yamagata

Lover's Sanctuary at Kaminoyama

A romantic observation deck to renew your love

Justin Velgus Apr 14, 2015 - 1 min read

<p>You'll have to take some pictures when you visit</p>

<p>Part of the fun is viewing the growing number of locks at the site</p>

<p>The sign is so shiny, you can see your reflection</p>

<p>A view of the unpaved road. Parking is on the far left and entrance to the "sanctuary" on the immediate right</p>

<p>Ring the bell to bring happiness into your life</p>

<p>Some of the locks which have been growing in number since 2006</p>

The observation deck half way up Mt. Hanasaki in Kaminoyama is known as a Lover's Sanctuary (恋人の聖地). It is one of a number of romantic locations across Japan set up by an NPO by the same name. Great for a date or a peaceful place in general.

Bring a lock and write a message to "lock" in your love, ring the "bell of happiness", or just enjoy the great view day or night 319 meters above sea level. If you don't mind narrow mountain roads, you can drive to the sanctuary to use one of the free four parking spots. Otherwise, it is a 30 minute walk from the entrance of the mountain path. You can also enjoy a picnic using the tables set up on the deck. There are hiking trails all around with a shrine a ten minute walk further up the mountain.

Justin Velgus @justin.velgus

Justin Velgus (ジャスティンベルガス) is the Miyagi Prefecture expert for Japan Travel and a long-term contributor since 2012 with a focus on the Tohoku region. Justin has written extensively for JT, and other publications such as VisitMiyagi and Sake Today, amassing over 350 published articles...