In springtime, numerous Gifu butterflies (Japanese luehdorfia) flit about, and mountain flowers such as Misumisou (Hepatica) and Izumokobaimo (Fritillaria ayakoana) can be seen, which attracts many climbers to the mountain. The north side is lined with steep peaks, forming an eye-catching group of mountains within the gently sloping terrain. These mountains are collectively called “Mt. Oetakayama volcano” and were formed by repeated volcanic activity occurring from about 2 million years ago to about 700,000 years ago. The Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine is located at one corner of the peaks, and castles were built at Mt. Yatakijozan and Mae Yataki to guard the silver mine.
