私は世界の中心だ

私は世界の中心だ

私は今世界の中心にいる。

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Mt. Mantoro Observatory: A Hidden Gem in Kyoto Prefecture
Nestled atop Mt. Omine (also known as Mt. Mantoro) in Ide Town, Kyoto Prefecture, the Mt. Mantoro Observatory (万灯呂展望台) offers breathtaking panoramic views at an elevation of about 300 meters. This spot provides a sweeping vista overlooking southern Kyoto City to the north and the Kansai Culture and Academic Research City to the south, blending urban lights and natural landscapes into a stunning panorama—especially renowned as a local night view hotspot. I visited on a weekday afternoon, and the scenery was truly magnificent, with rolling hills and distant cityscapes stretching out endlessly.
On clear days, visibility extends even farther, allowing glimpses of iconic landmarks like the Tower of the Sun in Osaka and Kyoto Tower—though hazy weather obscured them during my trip. One of the highlights is its prime position for observing Kyoto’s famous Daimonji Gozan no Okuribi (Five Mountain Send-off Fires) on August 16 each year. From here, you can catch four of the five massive bonfire characters: Myoho (Dharma Wheel), Funagata (Boat Shape), Hidari Daimonji (Left Great Character), and Torii-gata (Torii Gate Shape), excluding the central Daimonji. Additionally, the observatory itself lights up a large “Dai” character with 60 red electric decorations, adding a unique local touch to the festivities.
The site is simple yet functional, featuring a gazebo (east house) for shelter, benches for relaxing, and restrooms. However, keep in mind that the toilets aren’t the cleanest, so plan accordingly if you’re sensitive about that.
Access and Route Tips
Getting there involves navigating some challenging terrain, which had me hesitating for a while—until I finally splurged on a scooter to make the journey possible. I approached from the Prefectural Road 321 side, ascending via narrow forest roads that are tough for passing oncoming vehicles. Watch out for fallen leaves, rocks, and branches, which can make it particularly hazardous for motorbikes or two-wheelers—proceed with extra caution if you’re on one. For the descent, I headed toward the Yamashiro Tagata area, but it also has tight spots where larger vehicles might struggle. Personally, I’d recommend a kei car (light vehicle) or compact car for the smoothest experience; anything bigger could feel risky.
Along the way, I encountered deer and wild boars, so stay alert for wildlife. Lately, there have been bear sightings in nearby Ide Town and Kizugawa City, so packing bear-repellent spray could be a smart precaution for peace of mind. Overall, it’s a rewarding adventure for nature lovers, but preparation is key to enjoying the views without mishaps.