noun
shade of a mountain; shelter of the mountains
Refers to a place shaded by a mountain, often implying a secluded or sheltered spot. Can be used literally or poetically.
山陰に入ると急に涼しくなった。
It suddenly became cool when we entered the shade of the mountain.
その小さな村は山陰にひっそりとたたずんでいた。
The small village nestled quietly in the shelter of the mountains.
noun
mountain recess; deep in the mountains
Only with reading やまかげ
A more specific sense for a recess or hollow in the mountains, often remote and hidden. Restricted to the reading やまかげ.
山陰の小さな沢で清水が湧き出ている。
In a mountain recess, clear water springs from a small stream.