Mount Matazan

Mount Matazan was an active volcano on the island of Tsukishima in Wa, and the highest peak in the country. Having great spiritual significance, it was a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists.

Geography
Standing in the center of the northern Ikuyu Mountains, just north of the settlement of Ojichizu, Mount Matazan had an elevation of above sea level, making it the tallest mountain in Wa, and the biggest volcano in the country. Considered majestic, it had a conical shape with a gentle slope, and stood atop a wide plateau that spread out from all faces of the mountain.

Hot springs flowed from the flanks of the mountain, and six picturesque lakes lay around the plateau.

Despite this, there was scant vegetation around the foot of the mountain, except at the Garden of the Bloom Lady. This place was verdant with wild flowers and cherry trees.

Locations
Dotted around the plateau were dozens of shrines to one or another of the Eight Million Gods, as well as countless roads and trails winding their way up the mountainside.

At regular distances beside the main roads were bathhouses, which were fed by the hot springs. The water was thought to be especially revitalizing, and Wanese physicians commonly recommended that the sick and elderly visit the bathhouses for their health.

Significance
Every year, thousands of tourists and pilgrims climbed Mount Matazan, from its base to its peak.