Mt.Nishi-Hotaka, 2909 m, Northern Alps

Overview

Soaring to a height of 2,909 meters, Mt. Nishi-Hotaka lies in the steep Northern Alps and can enjoy mountain hiking all season for beginner to advanced hikers. In July, snow lingers in the valleys just below the summit, where colorful alpine flowers bloom. Many birds can be found during the summer months, including rock ptarmigans that inhabit the rocky moraine and Japanese accentors that raise their young under low-growing Siberian dwarf pines. In winter, it turns out different landscapes completely and a breathtaking mountain view appears in front of you.

Access

If you get the Ropeway from Shinhotaka Base Station, visit this website.
If you hike from Kamikochi, visit this website.

Trip Description

From Shinhotaka Ropeway

From the trailhead to the Nishiho Hut, the hike ascends through the forest. The hut is situated at an altitude of 2,367 meters, marking the treeline. Beyond the hut, the trail follows the mountain’s steep ridges, featuring craggy paths. Around Nishiho Doppyo, safety chains are in place, emphasizing the need to stay alert at all times. Following Doppyo, the route becomes even more challenging, with a craggy, steep, and narrow rocky path. Chains are securely placed at precarious cliff areas, guiding climbers to the summit of Mt. Nishi Hotaka safely. As you progress, you’ll need to carefully manage your physical strength and engage in hands-first climbing maneuvers.

• The Ropeway Base Station ➡ Nishi Hotakaguchi Sation(trailhead to Nishiho Hut), it takes 20 menutes.
• Hiking up and down a steep forest to the Nishiho Hut. It takes approximately 1.5 hours.
• Nishiho Hut ➡ Nishiho Doppyo, it takes 90 menutes.
• Nishiho Doppyo ➡ The top of Nishihotaka, it takes about 2 hours　

From Kamikochi

It takes about 4 hours from Kamikochi Visitor Center to Nishiho Hut.