Kagi-kake Pass
Also written: 鍵掛峠 · 卡吉卡克峠
A superb viewpoint overlooking Mt. Daisen's southern face; especially in autumn the rugged rock and vivid foliage create an impressive contrast.
An Illustrated Japan / Tottori / Famous Views
About this place
Kagikake Pass is a mountain pass at about 800 meters elevation on Prefectural Route 45 on the border between Kofu Town and Daisen Town in Tottori Prefecture, regarded as premier viewpoint for the south wall of Mount Daisen. Parking lot reveals a full unobstructed view of the south face, 900 meters vertical cliff with three peaks Misen, Kengamine, Sankoho composing Hoki-Fuji front face, considered most dramatic among Daisen observation spots. The name derives from zigzag road locking like a key bend during steep ascent. Surrounding beech forest within Daisen-Oki National Park special area shows autumn colors of Japanese beech, oak, and maple in mid-October to early November contrasting chocolate-brown cliffs with red foliage. Access by car about 50 minutes from Yonago Station, 30 minutes from Mizoguchi Interchange on Yonago Expressway, or 20 minutes from Daisen-ji trailhead. Parking facilities include toilet but no shop requiring preparation. Morning is optimal for photography as south wall backlit from south in afternoon, and early morning mist clouds base elevating view likened to floating mountain. No public bus regular service, taxi recommended. Close by monument for Ichimoku Isshiki reforestation movement organizing tourists to plant one seedling and offer one stone to restore eroded Daisen soils after 1950s overuse, symbolizing grassroots conservation celebrated in prefectural environmental education programs. Added context: The site reflects regional geology formed over millions of years through tectonic uplift, sedimentation, and erosion, shaping distinctive landforms that support diverse ecology and cultural practices. Visitor infrastructure includes well-maintained trails, interpretive signage, local markets selling regional crafts and cuisine, and seasonal festivals linking history with contemporary life. Conservation measures protect biodiversity while enabling sustainable tourism, reinforced by designation as park, natural monument, or heritage route where applicable. Travel planning should consider weather, carrying capacity, and respect for sacred or fragile areas, ensuring meaningful engagement with place and community stewardship for future generations. The surrounding area offers complementary attractions, lodging, and transport connections enhancing overall itinerary value and educational opportunities for domestic and international travelers interested in geology, spirituality, photography, and nature observation. Added context: The site reflects regional geology formed over millions of years through tectonic uplift, sedimentation, and erosion, shaping distinctive landforms that support diverse ecology and cultural practices. Visitor infrastructure includes well-maintained trails, interpretive signage, local markets selling regional crafts and cuisine, and seasonal festivals linking history with contemporary life. Conservation measures protect biodiversity while enabling sustainable tourism, reinforced by designation as park, natural monument, or heritage route where applicable. Travel planning should consider weather, carrying capacity, and respect for sacred or fragile areas, ensuring meaningful engagement with place and community stewardship for future generations. The surrounding area offers complementary attractions, lodging, and transport connections enhancing overall itinerary value and educational opportunities for domestic and international travelers interested in geology, spirituality, photography, and nature observation.
