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Exploring one of the Northern Alps’ most iconic peaks
Trip Report
🗓️ Day 1 – Saturday, September 20
Weather: Cloudy with periods of rain, worsening later in the day
At 09:00, Sachi and I met Caspar at Shinhotaka Ropeway (新穂高ロープウェイ, Shirakabadaira Station). We took the ropeway up to Nishihotakaguchi Station (2,156m), and despite the cloudy skies, we were excited to begin.
We set off at 10:00, hiking toward Nishihotaka Hut (西穂山荘). The trail started with gentle ups and downs for 15–20 minutes before turning into a steep uphill climb through a misty forest.
By 11:00, we reached the Hut (2,380m) earlier than expected. After a short break, we left our main backpacks at the hut and continued with lighter daypacks for a side trip to Maruyama (丸山, 2,452m), a one-hour round trip. Unfortunately, the weather worsened with heavier rain, wind, and fog, leaving us with no views along the ridge.
We returned to the hut around 11:45, enjoyed the signature ramen and a cold beer for lunch, then checked into our shared room — Hotaka Room 2, with five hikers in total. In the afternoon, we relaxed in the dining room, where I met a friendly lady from Denmark, in Japan for an internship program. I invited her to join our climb the following day.
The evening was spent over dinner, conversation, and preparing for the early morning start.
Overnight: Nishihotaka Hut (reservation required, or campsite available on a first-come basis)
🗓️ Day 2 – Sunday, September 21
Weather: Heavy rain and strong winds overnight, but clearing. Forecast: cloudy with some sunny intervals after 9.
We left the hut at 05:30, heading for the summit. The trail led us past Maruyama, Doppyo, and Pyramid Peak.
Mount Hotaka Doppyo (2,701m) was the first big challenge — a steep, rocky wall where climbers must move carefully, with a safety chain in place for support. After Doppyo, the trail narrowed into a rugged ridge with constant ups and downs. Some parts required precise footing, but then the clouds suddenly cleared for a short time, revealing stunning alpine views.
At 08:30, we stood on the summit of Mt. Nishihotaka-dake (2,901m). The moment was unforgettable. Nishihotaka–dake is one of the most popular peaks in the Northern Alps, but the section from Doppyo to the summit is technical and exposed, recommended only for experienced climbers or those with a guide.
By 10:30, we had descended safely back to Nishihotaka Hut, where everyone was in good spirits. After a short rest and collecting our gear, we began the descent. The trail down was steady and took about 1.5 hours. From Nishihotakaguchi Station, we rode the ropeway back down to the base and wrapped up our two-day adventure.
Reflections
This climb to Mt. Nishihotaka-dake was both challenging and rewarding. Day 1 tested us with rain and fog, but Day 2 brought moments of clear skies and breathtaking views. Sharing the trail with friends — and even new companions we met along the way — made the journey truly memorable.
Afterward
Thanks everyone — and a special shoutout to Sachi for taking the photos and videos that captured our trip so well. Rosa, you must have been scared at times, but you made it to the top — amazing effort. Caspar, thank you for signing up and joining our two-day adventure. I’m so glad we climbed together — see you on the next one!