Visit an unmapped lake with a spectacular view of Ibaraki's "White Lady" waiting for you! The Ishikiri Mountains in Kasama

  • Ibaraki
  • Sightseeing
Maeyama Quarry in the Ishikiri Mountains
Kasama City in Ibaraki Prefecture is famous for chestnuts! In fact, there is a spectacular view of a mining site, commonly known as the "Ishikiri Mountains," which stretches 8 km from east to west and 6 km from north to south, centered in Inada, Kasama City. It is one of the largest mining sites in Japan, and the "Inada-ishi" mined from this site is also known as the "White Lady" because of its outstanding whiteness, which is unparalleled in the world. The Maeyama Quarry, which is no longer used, has a lake formed by spring water and rainwater that collects in the cracks of the rocks, creating a spectacular view like that of ancient ruins.

Experience one of the largest quarries in Japan, "Ishikiri Mountains

The Ishikiri Mountain Range is the site of one of the largest Inada-ishi quarries in Japan, which has been in operation for more than 120 years since 1897. Inadaishi originated about 60 million years ago. Inadaishi is a type of granite that hardened over a long period of time deep under the sea. It is known as the "White Lady" because of its white surface, well-proportioned grain, and durability. It is used for representative Japanese buildings such as the National Diet Building, Tokyo Station, Nihonbashi Bridge, and the Supreme Court, as well as large stone structures such as torii gates and stone monuments at shrines throughout Japan.
Ishikiri Mountains

Take a premium tour to see the quarry site!

When visiting the Ishikiri Mountains, we recommend the one-hour premium tour that takes you to the mining site. Wearing a helmet and riding in a special vehicle, you will follow the bumpy road to the Okuyama Quarry while receiving explanations from an expert guide.

At the quarry, you will be able to see up close how the quarry is still in operation today. The height and size of the towering walls will overwhelm you. This spectacular view of the ancient ruins and the otherworldly landscape is said to have been used for filming music videos and other productions.

*An extra fee is required.
*Advance reservations are required.
*For details, please check the official website at the end of this page.
Feeling like a Sentai Hero, Yaaa!

A lake that is not on the map appears before your eyes!

The premium tour also includes a visit to the Maeyama Quarry, which is no longer in use. The Maeyama Quarry was excavated to 65 meters below the ground over a long period of time, and then spring water and rainwater accumulated to form this lake. Today, the lake is called "a landscape like an ancient ruin" or "a lake not on any map," and the view is spectacular. In spring, the trees begin to bud and the fresh green leaves create a beautiful water mirror, and in autumn, the lake shines in the clear autumn sky.

The premier tour is a great way to learn about the history of the mining process from the huge stone walls, and to stand on the shores of the lake, which is now calmly filled with water, and feel the passage of time. It is a must-do experience.
A path of light on the clear lake surface...
Reservation site for Premium Tour

We will have chestnuts from Kasama!

The U-A Cafe, which also serves as the reception desk, is located on a square paved with inada stones. Here you can taste chestnut sweets throughout the year. Kasama City produces the most chestnuts in Japan. The Mont Blanc made with the city's famous chestnuts is exquisite! I recommend the "Premium Mont Blanc with Coffee Set" served on an Inada stone plate. The marron cream squeezed out at a fineness of 1 mm and the fresh cream that is not too sweet are perfectly balanced and can be enjoyed to the last with coffee.

The plaza is also home to the "Inada Stone Exhibition," where a number of artworks created through collaboration between graphic designers and stone craftsmen are on display. Take a picture of your favorite work of art or take a stroll and spend some time relaxing. You will surely be healed.

*Admission fee applies even if you use only the U-A Cafe.
Montblanc on a plate made of Inada stone...
Official website is here:
Train + Accommodation "Ibaraki Area" reservations with [ JR East View Dynamic Rail Package ].
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