Itinerary:

Day 1: Shinhotaka Ropeway, Hotaka-sanso, Maruyama, stay at the hut.
Day 2: Maruyama, Doppyo

Day 1, Saturday, January 3rd.

6:00 a.m.
Despite a severe winter storm warning issued nationwide, Sachi and I set out early Saturday morning for the Shinhotaka Ropeway in Toyama, located in Chūbu-Sangaku National Park. Heavy snow was falling steadily, but we decided to continue, fully aware of the challenging conditions ahead.

9:15 a.m.
We arrived at the Shinhotaka Ropeway to find only a handful of cars in the parking lot—far fewer than usual. Given the heavy snowfall and storm warnings, the quiet scene was easy to understand.

10:30 a.m.
We arrived at the trailhead station, put on our crampons, and started hiking toward the mountain hut along the snowy trail. The air was cold and fresh, and the new snow felt clean and quiet. Each step made a soft, crunchy sound as we walked through the snowy woods.

On the steeper parts of the trail, the crampons did not work very well because the snow was deep and soft. Near the hut, the trail was hard to see and almost disappeared under the snow. Even so, we could find our way thanks to marker poles placed about every ten meters, pointing us toward the hut.

11:30 a.m.
We arrived at the mountain hut. We had planned to climb Maruyama after a short break, but the weather was poor. Strong winds were blowing, and thick clouds blocked our view. We decided to check in at the hut and prepare for the next day instead.

Day 2, Sunday, January 4th

6:30 a.m.
It was a beautiful morning with clear weather as we set off toward Doppyo (2,701 meters).

As dawn broke, the sky turned red around the rising sun, revealing stunning mountain views. We could even see Mt. Fuji far in the distance. However, once we reached the ridge, we struggled against strong winds as we continued our ascent. Stopping to take photos or videos was especially difficult—the freezing winds quickly numbed our bare hands, putting us at risk of frostbite.

After two hours of battling the conditions, we unfortunately made the decision to turn back halfway.

Afterword

Thank you, Sachi, for everything you prepared. Although the climb was challenging due to strong winds and freezing temperatures, we were deeply impressed by the stunning white mountain scenery.

It is a clear and crisp morning. I saw beautiful mountains with snow-covered peaks.

Saturday, December 26th
It was the coldest morning!

We had our lowest temperature of the winter so far this morning.

A severe winter storm raged, dumping over 20 cm of snow in the past two days. Snowplow trucks were working around our community and mountain roads.

Sunday, December 28
Winter walk, The Lake of Megami

This morning, I walked around the lake. The air was crisp and cold, and the snow under my feet made a soft, satisfying crunch with every step. Despite the chill, the walk felt refreshing, almost grounding. The lake had already frozen over, its surface calm and still. Out on the ice, workers were carefully preparing a track for cars, moving slowly in the winter silence.

Shirakaba Kokusai Ski Resort has been open since last weekend. Families and visitors were out enjoying the snow, their laughter carrying across the slopes. The resort is smaller than many others, but that gives it a gentle, family-friendly atmosphere—unhurried and warm, even in the cold.

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!

Changed Hiking Itinerary Due to a Bad Weather

Original Trip Overview Table:

Detail	Information
Duration	August, 9-11,2025
Route	Kamikōchi → Tokusawa → Yokoo → Chōgadake-Hut → Mt. Chōga-dake → Tokusawa → Kamikōchi
Highest Point	2677(Mt. Chōga-dake)
Difficulty	Intermediate(★★★☆☆)
Accomodation	Day 1: Yokoo Campsite / Day 2: Chōgadake-Hut
Transportation	Bus to Kamikōchi (car-free area)

Day 1 – Kamikōchi to Yokoo-Sanso Hut

Before setting out, I checked the latest weather updates. At the time, the weather authority reported that a typhoon was approaching Japan, and a heavy rain alert had been issued for the Kyushu region in southern Japan.

Despite the distant storm, the forecast for the Northern Alps remained favorable for the next few days at the moment, so Sachi and I decided to proceed with our plan. However, originally, we intended to camp on both nights, but considering the possibility of sudden bad weather, we decided instead to stay at mountain huts for safety.

” This particular weekend was a three-day holiday, as August 11th (Monday) is Yama no Hi—Japan’s national “Mountain Day.” Because of the long weekend, both Sawando Parking and the Kamikōchi area were expected to be especially crowded, so arriving early is the best way to secure a parking spot.”

We arrived at Sawando Parking before midnight and were surprised to find more available spaces than expected. After parking, we took a short nap in the car until the first shuttle bus at 5:00 a.m.

5:00 a.m.ー the bus terminal was already crowded, with a long line of hikers waiting to buy tickets to Kamikōchi. We joined the queue and, after about 20 minutes, finally had our tickets in hand. We started off on time at 5:00 a.m.

6:00 a.m.ー we arrived in Kamikōchi and began our hike, following the crystal-clear Azusa River. The trail led us through the peaceful Myōjin Pond area and onward to Tokusawa Hut, where we took a short break before continuing toward Yokoo-Sanso.

9:30 a.m.ー we reached Yokoo-Sanso, a key junction where the trail splits toward Mt. Hotaka, Mt. Yari, and Mt. Chōga-dake. The mountain rescue station here requires all hikers to register their itinerary, group size, and equipment before entering the high mountains. Staff were warning hikers about tomorrow’s weather, saying heavy rain and strong winds could cause hypothermia. “Tomorrow, it’s one hundred percent going to rain,” they told us. “Today is the only good weather you’ll get.”

Since we still had time before checking in, we decided to take advantage of the clear skies and hike toward Karasawa.

A Bear!

12:30 p.m.ー as we crossed a bridge over the Azusa River and walked through moderate forest terrain, the pace suddenly slowed. The hikers ahead had stopped. Then we saw why—there was a bear, right on the trail ahead! Everyone froze, keeping a safe distance, as the bear strolled along the path before disappearing quietly into the forest.

A stanning Viweing

Once the bear was safely out of sight, we continued along the trail. The climb took about three hours over steep, rocky terrain with almost no breaks before we finally arrived at Karasawa Hut. There, Sachi and I enjoyed lunch while viewing the stunning peaks of the Hotaka mountain range, rising sharply against the clear blue sky.

After returning from Karasawa in the late afternoon, we finally checked into Yokoo-Sanso Hut. A relaxing bath and a warm meal were just what we needed after the day’s hike. Over dinner, we made the difficult decision to cancel our plan to stay at Mt. Chōga-dake Hut, as a storm was forecast for the next day, and get back home.

Karasawa Cirque, 2500 meters

A Chance Encounter at Yokoo-Sanso

Earlier that morning, I had received an email from Mr. Deepak Y, an avid hiker from India who now resides in Tokyo for business. By chance, he had come across our Mt. Chōga-dake hiking plan on Meetup and expressed interest in meeting us. I suggested we meet at Yokoo-Sanso. After returning from Karasawa, we spotted him at the campsite, busy setting up his tent. We exchanged greetings, and I found him to be a warm and friendly person. It was a pleasant surprise to meet someone new in such a remote and beautiful place, and we enjoyed a short but lively conversation before heading back to the hut for the night.

Afterword

Thanks to Sachi for joining me on this adventure. Unfortunately, we had to change our original plan due to the weather, but we still enjoyed hiking Karasawa and taking in the stunning scenery. Meeting the friendly Mr. Deepak was an unexpected and pleasant highlight of the trip. Looking forward to our next adventure—see you on the trail!

📅 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!

Mt. Norikura (乗鞍岳): An Accessible 3,000-Meter Peak Adventure

Mt. Norikura（乗鞍岳） is locared on the border between Nagano and Gifu Prefecturers. It’s a part of the majestic Chubu Sangaku National Park. The area is known for its dramatic alpine secenary, rich ecosystem and easy access to high elevation, making it a perfect destination for both experienced hikers and beginners looking for a mountain adventure.

Day 1 Timeline: Monday, July 28th

3:30 a.m. – Departed for Norikura Kogen Center in Nagano, which operates a shuttle bus service to Norikura Sancho Bus Terminal (Tatamidaira).

5:30 a.m. – Arrived at the Norikura Kogen Center parking lot. The drive was smooth, with little traffic, and there were plenty of parking spaces available.

7:00 a.m. – The first shuttle bus of the day departed. The ride to Tatamidaira, the trailhead, took about an hour. As the bus climbed higher into the mountains, the scenery gradually changed, with misty forests and mountain views welcoming us along the way.

8:00 a.m. – We began our hike with a walk through a field of wildflowers. Many different kinds were in full bloom, painting the landscape with vibrant colors. The scene reminded Sachi and me of Mount Cook National Park in New Zealand, bringing back fond memories of our time there.

During the hike, we conquered several peaks around Mt. Norikura, including Mt. Fujimi (2,817 meters), Mt. Daikoku (2,772 meters), and Mt. Mao.

We were especially lucky to encounter a family of Raicho (rock ptarmigan)—a rare and special moment in the Japanese Alps. Many photographers come hoping for a glimpse of these elusive birds, but sightings are rare and truly feel like a gift from nature.

12:30 p.m. – We arrived at Katano-Sanso (肩の小屋) mountain hut, where we checked in, had a quick lunch break, and took a short nap to rest up before heading to the summit of Kengamine, the true peak of Mt. Norikura at 3,015 meters.

1:10 p.m. – We reached the summit of Kengamine! Standing at the highest point of Mt. Norikura, we were rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. It was a short but exhilarating climb from the hut.

This photo captures several of the main peaks in the Norikura mountain range.

Day 2 Timeline: Tuesday, July 29th

3:30 a.m. – We woke up early and set out toward the summit to watch the sunrise.

The sky was filled with countless stars, and the weather was perfect for sunrise viewing.

We were lucky to witness truly stunning moments—the first light breaking over the horizon, the sky slowly changing color, and the surrounding peaks glowing in the morning sun. It was an unforgettable experience.

7:00 a.m. – We had breakfast at the hut, then packed up and began our journey back down the mountain.

On the way home, we made a stop at Shirahone Onsen (白骨温泉)—a famous hot spring known for its milky-white water and healing properties.

Soaking in the warm spring water was incredibly relaxing and the perfect way to relieve our tired muscles after the hike. It was a peaceful and refreshing end to our mountain trip.

Afterward

A big thank you to Sachi for sharing this two-day adventure with me.

We had so many memorable moments—including laughing at an elderly man, probably around 80 years old, who piled an enormous amount of rice into his bowl, then went back for two more rounds! It was unbelievable, and we couldn’t stop laughing.

July 21st-Marine Day

This morning, I’m enjoying a quiet and peaceful time on my outdoor deck. The sky is completely clear-no clouds, no wind-just the soft warmth of the sun shining down. It’s a calm and beautiful start to the day, perfect for Marine Day, a national holiday here in Japan.

As always, Tabby, my cat, woke me up early. After a refreshing shower and a hot cop of coffee, I stepped outside to soak in the atmosphere. The air is still, the trees are lush and green, and the only sounds I hear are birds singing and cicadas buzzing. Summer is alive all around me.

Tabby is wandering freely on the wooden deck, curious and content, blending perfectly with the peacefull rhythm of the morning. I’m listening to the redio quietly in the background, with the parasol gently casting shade over the outdoor chairs. Everything feels still, grounded, and full of simple joy.

It’s small mornings like this that remind me how lucky I am to be surrounded by nature and quiet moments.