snowy slopes, clear mountain streams, and diverse
seasonal varieties of plant and animal life. The parkoﬀers a well-developed system of trails and mountain huts and challenging routes. It is home to 10
of Japan’s 21 peaks over 3,000 meters. The tallest

Chubusangaku
National Parkis Mt. Oku-Hotakadake, the third-highest mountainin Japan at 3,190 meters, and the most recognizable is Mt. Yarigatake, whose 3,180 meter peak is
said to resemble the Matterhorn. Mt. Tsubakuro, at
2,763 meters, is popular with novice hikers. Mostof the summits are accessible, depending on one’s
level of expertise, the time of year, and the weather
conditions.
The following is a guide to hiking the mountainsof the national park. Hikers are urged to check thelatest trail and weather conditions thoroughly andgather as much information as possible before setting out. The local tourist associations are reliable
sources of information, as are the local visitor cen-

From November to June, the mountain peaks in

ing routes suitable for hikers and climbing/scaling

Chubusangaku National Park are covered in snow̶

routes. The hiking routes marked on the map that

inaccessible to all but the most expert climbers.

are suitable for hikers in the snow-free season

The peak hiking season runs from late July until(roughly July through October) are laid as trails, with

mid-August, when temperatures range from 15°C

signposts in places such as junctions that indicate

to 25°C at lower altitudes and from 5°C to 15°C at

present location and destination. On climbing routes

higher altitudes. Earlier in spring and later in au-other than the hiking routes, special equipment suchtumn, temperatures can be more than 20 degrees

as ropes are essential, and it is dangerous for ordi-

lower.

nary hikers to proceed. Take care not to enter a trailthat is over your ability level.
The main hiking routes are graded by the levelof diﬃculty in 5 ratings from A to E (refer to theattached map). There are some hiking routes thatuse chains and ladders to ascend and descend steep
rocky places, and the use of helmets is recom-

SpringSpring in the mountains begins at the end of April, usually aroundthe holiday period known as Golden Week. Huts throughout thepark begin opening their doors around that time as popularity demands and the melting snows allow. The higher peaks, such as Mt.
Yarigatake, Mt. Hotaka, and Mt. Jonendake, are all still completely
snow-covered in spring, so crampons, ice axes, and experience are
essential.

mended on those routes.
Popular hiking routes can get crowded andjammed with hikers, particularly during high season in the summer and in weekends.

the remaining snowﬁelds. For rainy-season hikes, however, it is best

to choose routes where mountain huts are already open, because theweather is ﬁckle and some trails may not yet be fully restored after
winter damage.
The peak summer climbing season begins after the rainy season
ends, usually in mid- to late July. All the huts are open, the summits
are snow free, and most can be climbed without any special equipment. Naturally, this is a popular time for people to visit. The bestplan is to hike earlier in the day, as afternoon squalls are a regularoccurrence.

Autumn
The next high season runs from late September through mid-October, when the forests change from the lush green of summer to theirautumn colors. The change begins at the higher altitudes and works
its way down as the days get cooler. Some of the most famous areas,such as Karasawa, attract large numbers of hikers, but you can ﬁndspectacular views throughout the park. The dakekanba, or Erman’s
beech trees, are aglow with vivid yellows, while the most brilliant
reds come from the leaves of the Japanese rowan. The contrasts areeven more breathtaking after light snowfalls, which begin in October and become heavier and more frequent as autumn progresses.
During this period, snow makes the trails slippery, leading to an increase in accidents. Temperatures can drop drastically, so be sure tocarry warm hiking wear to prevent hypothermia. This is also whenthe mountain huts begin closing for winter.

Summer

Winter

The rainy season usually starts in late June and lasts about a month.
However, even during this period, there are days when the skies areclear, and some experts believe these are the best times for hiking.
There are few people on the trails, and alpine ﬂowers of all varieties

Snowfall is heavy in the Northern Alps, and approaches should only
be attempted by highly experienced hikers. All but very few of thehuts are closed. However, visitors can enjoy other activities, such as
skiing and snowshoe hiking, at lower altitudes.

ters. Hiking guides, some of them multilingual, cancomfortable, lowers risk, and allows you to adapt
to changing weather conditions. For a summer hike,we suggest you wear or bring the following.
Hiking Equipment List

1

Underwear,
or base layer

Warm clothing

1

A ﬂeece, down, or synthetic
jacket and warm hat and gloves
are also recommended for thecolder temperatures athigher altitudes.

Light synthetic fabric orwool that will dry quickly.

2

Middle layer

Quick-drying shirt(long-sleeved recommended).

3

Backpack

4

hints and knowledge of the natural environment.

Helmet3

Hiking pants

A well maintained hiking route

The Northern Alps are one of three mountain
ranges that divide the main island of Honshu.
They were formed between 2 to 5 million years
ago during the Pliocene epoch, when compression
between tectonic plates resulted in a thrust-fault
from the east, pushing the earth’s crust skywardand forming this long series of mountains.
Besides volcanic and sedimentary rocks, manyof the mountains here consist of granite pierced
by crystalline rocks containing feldspar and quartz.
Granite is created when magma cools and solidiﬁes
at a considerable depth below the earth’s surface.
The granite here is some of the newest in the world:
for example, while most of Japan’s granite wasformed 50 to 130 million years ago, the age of thisThe great, U-shaped valleys of these mountains,
gouged out by glaciers during the most recent ice

ated steep slopes, leaving the mountain peaks sharp
and ragged. The faces of the mountains also eroded,
leaving many rocks and boulders of all shapes andsizes that dot the landscape and are used to markthe hiking trails.
The most famous active volcano in the Northern
Alps is Mt. Yakedake (whose name in Japanesemeans “burning mountain”), at the entrance of
Kamikochi. The region’s many old volcanoes havecontributed a rich legacy of geothermal springs, asource of great pleasure for tired hikers who soakin the steaming mineral waters.

Mt. Tsubakuro with its beautiful granite forms

Angelica pubescens

It was another British climber, a missionary

piece of the Northern Alps, was made in 1828 by

named Walter Weston, who introduced Japan’sa Buddhist priest named Banryu. Besides ascetics,

mountains to the world. After climbing several ofthe mountains were also the domain of woodcut-

the Northern Alps’ peaks, he wrote a book titledters and hunters, and one hunter named Kamijo Ka-

Mountaineering and Exploration in the Japanesemonji is now famed for guiding the ﬁrst non-Japa-

Alps, which was published in London in 1896.

nese climber, William Gowland, to the peak of Mt.

Like his compatriot, he was guided by Kamonji, for

Hikers will come across all kinds of plant
and animal life, some of which is indigenous totry, and peak after peak and route after route weresiastic climber, and theconquered by enthusiastic climbers. Today, thanksﬁrst use of the term

to constant conservation eﬀorts and the well-run“thesystem of trails and huts, there are innumerable
destinations for hikers.

Birds

Mammals

Bird watchers will ﬁnd the parka habitat for migratory

The park is home to many creatures
great and small, protected throughconservation and awareness programs.

and nonmigratory species, including:

The Japanese rock ptarmigan (its Japanese name raicho means “thunder bird”) is a heavy-bodied ground
feeder about the size of a small chicken that is foundin alpine areas of dwarf Siberian pine. It is noted forits pure-white coloring during the winter. Its survival
at high altitudes made it a symbol of the mountaindeities, and for most of Japanese history raicho were
not hunted. Despite being a beloved bird, it is now on
the endangered list. Since the birds are accustomed tohumans, hikers spot them quite frequently.

Called okojo in Japanese, this is one of the smaller members of the genus Mustela. While it looks
adorable when standing on its hind legs, this furrycreature is carnivorous and hunts small mammals
and birds, like the rock ptarmigan.

Alpine Accentor (Prunella collaris)

Spotted Nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes)

A matured bird is blackish-brown all over with golden brown at the back of the head. The wingspan canreach up to an impressive 2m. They look majestics as
they circle and ﬂy on the rising airﬂow. Steep mountainous areas are its natural habitat, building nests
on rock ledges or in large trees. The decline of its
natural habitat and a fall in the breeding success rate
and a reduction in surviving numbers. Designatedas a a nationally endangered wildlife species under
threat of extinction, it will be precious experience if
you spot it.

Enzanso has been around since 1921. By the time
the area was designated as a national park in 1934,
most of today’s huts were already in operation.
As the numbers of hikers increased, the huts grew

Making the Most ofYour Stay
Unlike most mountain lodges in Europe, many ofJapan’s mountain huts are located close to the highest
peaks. Operating accommodations in such extreme
locales requires a lot of hard work and the cooperationof guests. Most Japanese hikers are already aware of
the basic customs and schedules of the lodges, andhikers from overseas can ensure a smooth stay bylearning in advance how things are done.

The Early Bird
Some hikers hit the trails while it is still dark, andAsian Black Bear(Ursus thibetanus)

almost everyone leaves by 5:30 or 6:00 a.m. Since

The Asian black bear, or kuma, is medium-sized
and largely herbivorous, though it will feed on small
mammals, birds, and insects. It sports a distinctive
white patch in the shape of a crescent moon on its
chest. Adults have an average weight of 135 kilo-

breakfasts need to be prepared and served, thisgrams but can reach 200 kilograms.

Japanese Macaque(Macaca fuscata)
The Japanese macaque or “snow monkey” can befound in many areas of the park, particularly in Kamikochi and at other high altitudes in the Northern
Alps. Their diet includes leaves, bamboo shoots,
insects, and nuts. Visitors from abroad are often surprised to ﬁnd monkeys, which are more commonly
associated with tropical areas, in such a cold, harshhabitat.

means an even earlier start for the hut’s staﬀ. Evening meals are served early too, usually at around
5:00 p.m. In order to prepare the correct numberof meals and make room assignments, most huts
expect hikers to arrive by 3:00 p.m. Arriving latecreates additional work and problems for the staﬀ.
Observing the customary arrival time may seem
unnecessary to hikers who are renting a tent spaceand making their own meals, but latecomers will very
likely ﬁnd most good tent spots already occupied.
The weather often deteriorates later in the day, andthick clouds and sudden rainstorms occur frequently.
Please keep in mind that another crucial reason
for early check-in is the importance of daylight for
any rescue operations. Conditions such as altitude
sickness and hypothermia require a quick response.

Mountain clinic opens during summer season at Yarigatake Sanso Hut.

Tips for Lodging at
Mountain Huts
Lights Out/Lights On

Waste Not

Depending on the hut, thelights will be turned oﬀ at 8:00
or 9:00 p.m. and back on at 4:00
or 5:00 a.m. Many hikers are in
bed even earlier than 8:00 p.m.,so everyone tends to quieten
down by then. It is also customary to pack early the night
before so as not to wake otherswith noisy preparations.

Everyone is asked to carry out
any garbage they generate. Toilet
rules vary from hut to hut. Somerequire used toilet paper to beplaced in a waste basket next to
the toilet. Toilet waste is either
carried out of the park or broken
down through a waste-treatment system, both of which require considerable eﬀort. While
guests staying at the huts andcampsites can use the toilets
free of charge, others are asked
to contribute ¥100 per use.

Water: The Source of Life
Water is an extremely precious
resource at high altitudes. The
availability and quantity at thehuts depend on how close they
are to a water source, but all ofthem strive to conserve water.
Some may even charge for its
use, depending on the collection method.

Reservations
Where possible, reservations
should be made in advance. Not
all mountain huts accept reservations, however, so carefully
researching your options inadvance is a must. If you have areservation but decide to cancel
your stay due to bad weather orfor any other reason, be sure to
inform the hut. The nonarrivalof guests with reservations
raises concerns about possible
accidents on the trail.

Too Close for Comfort
The huts can get very crowded
during peak season and on
weekends. They never refuse
anyone in need of shelter, sosharing a futon mattress is apossibility. If you fear becoming claustrophobic, avoid weekends and the peak seasons.

At diﬃcult passages, calling

Paint marks like this a used toout to each other canmark trails.

help you pass in a safe place

Getting There
Mt.
Sugoroku

Taxi

Mt.Tsubakuro

Bus

Mt.
Yarigatake

Train

Ichinosawa

25min

Nishi
hotakaguchi

at a mountain hut

Mt.
Jonen

HotakaMountain
Range

m
35

Hirayu

43min

15min

in

MitsumataMt.
ChogatakeKamikochi

10min
10min

1hr (To Kamikochi)

SawandoKamikochi
Line
30min

10min

Nakanoyu
Norikuratatamidaira
50min

Mt.Norikura(Mt.Kengamine)

A certain bedroom

Mt.
OtenshoRopewayCash
The mountain huts do not accept credit cards, so be sure to
bring cash for payment.

Nakabusa
Onsen

Trail

Norikurakogen ⁄Norikura Tourist
Center

Shinshima
shima

Matsumoto City in Nagano Prefecture and Takayama City in Gifu
Prefecture are starting points for accessing Chubusangaku National
Park Southern Region. You can get to various trailheads using railroad, bus and taxi.

Chuo Line (Express Azusa)
2 hr30 min

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)

protected species.

mark: the Yarisawa Lodge opened in 1917, while

Matsumoto Tokyo

The spotted nutcracker, or hoshi-garasu, is a member of the crow family and feeds on insects, nuts,
and pine cones. It is found in coniferous mountain
forests and has an excellent memory, remembering hundreds of locations where it has buried food.
Its distinct white-spotted pattern is elegant andeye-catching.

Though its Japanese name, kamoshika, includes
shika, which means deer, the Japanese serow is aneven-toed bovine, a kind of goat-antelope. While notin danger of extinction, it is considered a symbol ofNagano and Toyama prefectures, and is therefore athe most famous have recently passed the 100-year

JR Oito Line
25 minWith its streaked brown back, gray head and reddish-brown spotted breast, the alpine accentor (iwahibari in Japanese) is found in mountain areas with little
vegetation. It can be found at elevations of over 2,000
meters but usually winters at lower altitudes, and is
known for its beautiful song, warbled while in ﬂight.

Japanese Serow(Capricornis crispus)

to focus on serving the needs of hikers. Some of

JR Oito Line
5min

Japanese Least Weasel(Mustela itatsi)

the beginning of the twentieth century, huts began

Toyoshina

Japanese Rock Ptarmigan (Lagopus muta)

riod (1603‒1867), but as mountaineering took oﬀ at

HotakaIts pink ﬂowers bloom in gravely granite where otherplants cannot live. The sight of its ﬂowers nobly blooming in this harsh environment has earned its name of“Queen of the alpine ﬂora.” The name Komakusa (horse
plant) is derived from the resemblance to a face of ahorse. Parsley-like thin leaves send water directly to its
own roots by changing moisture in the air into water
droplets.

in 1915. The sport quickly spread all over the coun-

He was also an enthu-

shelters built by loggers and hunters in the Edo pe-

inKomakusa (Dicentra peregrina)

during the Meiji era.

formation. Their origins may have been the small

13min

An alpine plant that frequently colonizes areas
around snowy ﬁelds which symbolizes arrival of earlysummer. It blooms in one place after another as thesnow melts and the ground is exposed, and since it
blooms in short period of time , about 1 to 2 weeks, its
ﬂowering tells of the progress of snow melting . Afterthe ﬂowers stop blooming, the pale pink spikes ﬂyaway in the wind. The sight resembles children(chigo)’s windmills(kazaguruma), and so the name Chinguruma was given. The leaves also turn color vividly
in the fall, so it can be enjoyed in 3 diﬀerent forms.
Although looking like a grass, it is actually a tree.

The Japanese larch, or karamatsu, is the only deciduous coniferous tree native to Japan. It comes
into leaf early in spring, and its needles turn brightyellow before being shed in autumn.

versity alpine club was founded at Keio University

meals, accommodation, safety support, and in-

NagoyaChinguruma (Geum pentapetalum; avens)

Japanese Larch(Larix kaempferi)industrializationadjacent clinics that provide basic medical services.

45min

The Japanese rowan’s name, nanakamado, is madeof two words meaning “seven” and “oven,” from thebelief that it is such a slow-burning ﬁrewood it can beused in an oven seven times. Also known as mountainash, it bears small white ﬂowers in spring, followed bybrilliant red berries and leaves in autumn.

withing communications and, in some areas, supportingm
35

Japanese Rowan (Sorbus commista)Dense ﬁelds of Siberian dwarf pine (haimatsu) can
be found at high altitudes near the tree line throughout the park, creating a safe haven for the Japaneserock ptarmigan.

Alpine Club was founded in 1905, and the ﬁrst uni-lines when it comes to rescue operations, facilitat-“Raku!” an abbreviation of rakuseki (“falling rock”). Conveniently,
raku is pronounced much like the word “rock.”● The mountain slopes can be very steep, and going oﬀ-trail may
not only damage the environment but also place you in danger.
● Listen to advice from mountain-hut staﬀ, who are knowledgeable
about their surroundings.
● Helmets are recommended for some of the more diﬃcult sections.
● The weather can change very quickly in alpine locations. Be prepared and check forecasts often.
● Headlamps can be lifesavers when hikers are caught by nightfall
on the trail, or for predawn departures.
● A hiking registration form should be submitted at the trailhead
or on the Internet. This is extremely important in case of emergencies.
● In the case of an accident, you may incur costs for searching andrescuing. It is advisable to take out mountaineering insurance ortravel accident insurance that covers hiking (it is possible to apply
for this at a vending machine in Kamikochi)● A navigation app is eﬀective to prevent losing your way (there is afree English version). It is best to install it on your smartphone inadvance, and download map data of your destination.

Hoonoki-daira

Siberian Dwarf Pine (Pinus pumila)

ed to Japan to help

cutting back foliage. They are often on the front

correct path or an X for a direction to avoid.

● When a dislodged rock can endanger people below, hikers call out

Takayama（JNTO）National Parks of JAPANMatsumoto City Alps Sangakukyo

https://www.japan.travel/national-parks/parks/chubusangaku/

Azumino Tourist Association

https://alps-sangakukyo.jp/ TEL: 0263-94-2221

Omachi City Tourism Association

https://www.azumino-e-tabi.net/en/ TEL: 0263-82-3133

Okuhida Onsengo Tourism Association

http://www.kanko-omachi.gr.jp/en/ TEL: 0261-22-0190

Hida Norikura Tourism Association

https://www.okuhida.or.jp/en/ TEL: 0578-89-2614®

Ministryof theEnvironment

http://www.norikuradake.jp/en.html TEL: 0577-78-2345

Veratrum, or kobaikeiso, is a toxic ﬂowering plant
recognizable by its straight stems with multiple
white blossoms. It is found in areas of damp soil andblooms every few years in midsummer.

and climbing gear into the country. The Japanese〇〇

ascending have priority.

45min

Veratrum

The white birch, or shirakaba, is found throughout
the mountains at altitudes of around 1,500 metersand can be recognized by its white, ﬂaky bark andlime-green leaves that turn golden yellow in autumn.

invit-

throughout Chubusangaku National Park, oﬀering〇● Rocks on the trails are sometimes marked with a circle for the

Shinhotaka Ropewayvary by area and altitude.

Japanese White Birch(Betula platyphylla)

activity as Europeans introduced alpine techniquestionalwashed-out bridges, restoring damaged paths, andThere are about 100 mountain huts in operation〇● When hikers going in opposite directions meet, those who are

JR Takayama Line (Express Hida)

The trees and other plant species that populate
the forests of Chubusangaku National Parkof the many interna-

They take responsibility for maintenance, replacing(presently Hotakadake Sanso hut)〇〇〇

Hiking Tips

To Toyama

Trees and Other Plants

The Japanese beech, or buna, is a deciduous tree native
to Japan and can grow at altitudes of up to 1,400 meters.
Its ability to absorb and store rainwater in its trunk androots helps prevent erosion, and the evaporation of water through its leaves acts as a natural cooler and climate
modiﬁer. The tree’s leaves turn yellow in autumn.

Mountaineering became an increasingly popularancestors having laid the trails that hikers still use.

The ﬁrst Hotaka hut was build in 1925

〇
〇
〇
〇

Recommendedinor found only in Japan.

Japanese Beech(Fagus crenata)

whom he expressed high praise in the book.

and archaeologist, one

owned by Jo-on-ji Temple

helicopter deliveries and generators, guests canin the same family for generations, the operators’

priests underwent strenuous ascetic training.

appears in his writings.

how diﬃcult this must have been. Now, thanks to

conditions, and much more. Most huts have been
Walter Weston and Kamonji Kamijo〇

the climb with a full backpack can well imagine

about the natural environment, trails, weather

mountain peaks. Some areas had already become〇 Mandatory

was carried up by hand, and anyone who has madeliving encyclopedias who share their knowledge

ligion, which deiﬁes natural phenomena, including

Emergency
tentlarger. Until the advent of helicopters, everything

locations. The operators and their employees aretains has its roots in the country’s indigenous re-

Portrait of Banryu,

The mountain huts do not
accept credit cards, so be sure to
bring cash for payment. You will
also need small change to pay
to use toilets.

The huts have deep connections with their alpine

in other regions of Japan, climbing in these moun-

Alps”

Always carry a detailed map of
your route, as well as a compass.
While the trails are well marked,
a map and compass are useful
if you get disoriented.

ﬁlling, hot meals.

mountaineers in the Meiji era (1868‒1912). But asJapaneseCashenjoy such oﬀerings as draft beer, ice cream, andsangaku National Park with the arrival of European

experts

Map andcompass〇〇

To Hakuba

Called shishiudo in Japan, this is a native plant withdelicate white blossoms resembling ﬁreworks thatemerge from its tall stems in July and August.

Japan’s Mountain Huts

The ﬁrst ascent of Mt. Yarigatake, the center-

Headlamp

〇
〇
〇
〇
〇
〇
〇

m
55

Alpine Wonderland

Information(Chubusangaku National Park Southern Region)

https://alpinewonderland.com/

Kamikochi Visitor Center

TEL: 0263-95-2606

Kamikochi Information Center

TEL: 0263-95-2433

Norikura Visitor Center

TEL: 0263-93-2045

Sawando National Park Gate

TEL: 0263-93-3355

Shinhotaka Mountaineering Advice Center

Enjoying
the Flora and Fauna

Taisho Pond was created by the eruption of Yakedake in 1915.

A Tradition of
Supporting Hikers

Modern alpinism in Japan began in the Chubu-

pilgrimage destinations or special sites where

When usedappropriately, thesecan be helpful,particularly for
beginners, by
distributing theimpact on the legs
and adding extra
points of contact.

4

Boots

Winter : Hotaka Mountain Range
covered with deep snow

Climbing in the Birthplace of the“Japanese Alps”

such as the one on the face of Mt. Yarigatake, were

weathering by glaciers, rivers, and avalanches cre-

Autumn :Foliage in Karasawa

A Historic View:

range’s granite is under 5 million years.

age that ended some 10,000 years ago. Further

Summer : Alpine foliage with
Mt. Yarigatake in the distance.

Yarigatake in 1877. Gowland was a British engineer

TEL: 0578-89-3610

Published by Chubusangaku National Park Oﬃce,Ministry of the Environment
Editing: Yama-kei Publishers Co.,Ltd.
Printed in Japan First printing 2020

Birthplace of The Japanese Alps

Geography andGeology

Spring : Snow remains throughspring in the Northern Alps

Helmets are highly recommended
on some diﬃcult routes. Ask at
the mountain hut where you arestaying. Some huts oﬀer rentals.

Lightweight synthetic,
unconstricting long pants(or shorts over tights).

5Hiking Guide& Map

Emergency ﬁrst aid kit

Trekking poles

High-cut hiking/trekking bootswith good ankle support
and traction, to be wornwith heavy, warm socks.

with you local customs, route information, safety

Hiking shirt
Hiking pants
Socks
GlovesHat
Warm clothing
Hiking boots
Gaitors
Change of clothes
RainwearBackpack
Backpack cover
Headlamp
Spare batteries
Toiletries
Towel
Sunglasses
Sunblock
Map
Compass
Writing utensil(pen)Emergency ﬁrst aid kit
Toilet paper
Camping stove&fuel
Knife
Dishes&cutlery
Food/snacks
Emergency tent
Garbagebag
Trekking poles
Cash
Mobile phone

Rainwear
Windproof and waterproof
jacket with a hood and pants(breathable fabricrecommended).

2

The size of backpack will
depend on the lengthof the hike and whether
you plan on carrying atent. Putting the contents
in plastic bags and using arain cover for the pack isalso recommended.

5

make the experience more enjoyable by providing

Hiking the Northern Alps is far more enjoyable
when you have the right equipment. It is moreinto a majestic alpine landscape of towering peaks,

The Northern Alps routes are divided into hik-What to Bring:
Hiking Equipment

begin to make their appearance, presenting a colorful contrast with

25m

Chubusangaku National Park welcomes hikers

When to Hike

35m
in

Yari ⁄ Hotaka ⁄ Norikura
Mountain Range

About Trails

in

Hikingthe Northern Alps

47m

Japanese
Alps