📅 Duration: August 9th – 11th
📍 Destination: Chubu Sangaku National Park, Japan’s Northern Alps

🌄 Overview

This three-day hiking adventure explores the dramatic landscapes of Japan’s Northern Alps, one of the country’s most iconic mountain ranges. The route winds through the lush Kamikōchi valley, up to alpine ridgelines, and culminates with a summit of Mt. Chōga-dake (蝶ヶ岳, 2,677m)—famous for its panoramic views of the Hotaka Range and Mt. Yari.

🗺️ Route Itinerary

Day 1 – August 9:

  • Start Point: Kamikōchi Bus Terminal
  • Hike along the Azusa River to Tokusawa-Sanso
  • Continue to Yokoo area
  • Overnight: Camp at Yokoo Campsite

Day 2 – August 10:

  • Early start and steep ascent toward Chōgadake-Hut
  • Optional sunset hike to the summit of Mt. Chōga-dake
  • Overnight: Stay at Chōgadake-Hut

Day 3 – August 11:

  • Early descent via the same trail
  • Return through Tokusawa
  • End at Kamikōchi Bus Terminal

🧭 Trail Info

  • Total Duration: 3 Days
  • Highest Point: Mt. Chōga-dake (2,677m)
  • Distance (Approx.): ~30–35 km round trip
  • Difficulty: ★★★☆☆ (Intermediate)
  • Trail Type: Out-and-back
  • Best For: Hikers with moderate experience, comfortable with elevation gain and long hiking hours

🎒 Packing List Essentials

  • ⛺ Tent & Sleeping Gear (for Day 1 campsite)
  • 🥾 Hiking boots (broken-in, waterproof)
  • 🧥 Rain gear / windbreaker
  • 🧢 Hat, gloves, sunblock
  • 🍱 Lightweight food & snacks (for all days)
  • 🍼 Water bottles or hydration system (refill at huts)
  • 💡 Headlamp (especially for early starts or if sunset hiking)
  • 🧻 Toilet paper & trash bag (pack in/pack out rule)
  • 🆔 Cash for hut fees and emergency expenses
  • 📱 Offline maps (YAMAP or Gaia recommended)

💡 Tips & Reminders

  • Reservations for Chōgadake-Hut are recommended, especially in summer season.
  • Kamikōchi is car-free—take a shuttle bus or taxi from Hirayu Onsen or Sawando Parking.
  • Check weather forecasts for mountain conditions; storms can form quickly.
  • Start early each day to avoid afternoon clouds or storms.
  • Respect nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles, and don’t feed wildlife.

We’ll hike, camp, and climb our way through one of Japan’s most iconic national parks. I’ll be documenting the trip with photos and videos, which I’ll share in a full trip report shortly after the hike. Stay tuned!