Shinshu Summits: 6 Must-Climb Mountains in Nagano Prefecture

Nagano Prefecture (長野県), nestled in the heart of Japan, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its rich tapestry of mountains, the region offers a diverse range of climbing experiences, from easy hikes to challenging ascents. In celebration of Mountain Day (11 August) in Japan, here are six easy to moderate must-climb high elevation (>2,500m) mountains in Nagano Prefecture, each offering unique landscapes and unforgettable adventures!

① Mount Kiso-Komagatake and the majestic Senjojiki Cirque

Summit: 2,956m
Ascent (varies depending on individual): 2 hours
Descent (varies depending on individual): 1.5 hours

Take the ropeway up to Senjojiki Cirque. | ©photoAC

Mount Kiso-Komagatake (木曽駒ケ岳) stands as one of the central peaks of the Kiso Mountains in the Central Alps. It is a favoured destination for visitors due to its stunning vistas, and at 2,956m, it is the highest peak in the Central Alps, offering climbers a challenging yet rewarding experience.

A key highlight of the climb is the Senjojiki Cirque (千畳敷カール), a glacially carved basin that sits at an elevation of 2,600m. This breathtaking natural amphitheatre is accessible via the Komagatake Ropeway (駒ヶ岳ロープウェイ), making it a popular starting point for climbers. The cirque is especially beautiful in summer when it is blanketed with alpine flowers, and in autumn when it turns into a canvas of vibrant fall colours.

Stay overnight to see the sunset and sunrise from the peak. | ©photoAC

The climb from Senjojiki Cirque to the summit of Kiso-Komagatake takes approximately 2 hours, with a trail that is well-marked and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The climb can be done as a day hike, but climbers wanting to see the sunset and sunrise can stay overnight at a mountain hut near the summit, and climb down the next day.

② Mount Tsubakuro: Queen of the Northern Alps

Summit: 2,763m
Ascent (varies depending on individual): 5 hours
Descent (varies depending on individual): 3.5 hours

Mount Tsubakuro is a steep but rewarding climb. | ©Carissa Loh

Mount Tsubakuro (燕岳 Tsubakurodake), affectionately known as the “Queen of the Northern Alps”, is renowned for its striking beauty and steep climb. Standing at 2,763m, it is one of the most popular mountains in the Northern Alps, attracting climbers with its picturesque landscapes and panoramic views.

Climb to Mount Tsubakuro in autumn. | ©Carissa Loh

The ascent typically starts from Nakabusa Onsen (中房温泉), a hot spring resort that serves as a trailhead. The trail is well-maintained, making it suitable for both day hikes and overnight trips. For some climbers, the highlight of the climb is the stay at Enzanso (燕山荘), the mountain hut near the summit, which is known for its cleanliness and delicious food!

The climb to Mount Tsubakuro’s summit takes about 5 hours and is considered moderate in difficulty. Did you know? Mount Tsubakuro is considered one of the top three steepest accents of the Northern Alps, as climbers gain around 1,400m in elevation over 5.5km. 

③ Mount Karamatsu and Happo Pond

Summit: 2,696m
Ascent (varies depending on individual): 4.5 hours
Descent (varies depending on individual): 3 hours

Mountain hut on Mount Karamatsu. | ©photoAC

Mount Karamatsu (唐松岳 Karamatsudake), part of the Hakuba mountain range, is another gem of the Northern Alps. Rising to 2,696 meters, it is known for its relatively easy access and the stunning Happo Pond (八方池 Happо̄-ike), a mirror-like alpine pond that reflects the surrounding peaks.

Reflection of Mount Karamatsu in Happo Pond. | ©photoAC

The journey to Mount Karamatsu often begins at the Happo-One Ski Resort, where the Adam Gondola Lift and other chairlifts take climbers up to the Happo-ike Sanso Mountain Hut (八方池山荘). From there, the hike to Happo Pond is an ascent of about 1.5 hours. The pond itself is a serene spot, offering picture-perfect reflections of the surrounding mountains.

The climb from Happo Pond to the summit of Mount Karamatsu is more challenging, taking an additional 3 hours. The trail is well-marked and provides stunning views of the Hakuba mountain range. On clear days, climbers can enjoy panoramic vistas that stretch as far as Mount Fuji and the Sea of Japan.

④ Mount Norikura: Easy hike suitable for families

Summit: 3,026m
Ascent (varies depending on individual): 1.5 hours
Descent (varies depending on individual): 75 minutes

Mount Norikura offers high elevations with minimal climbing. | ©photoAC

Mount Norikura (乗鞍岳 Norikuradake), one of Japan’s 100 famous mountains, is known for its relatively easy climb and breathtaking panoramic views. At 3,026m, it is one of the highest peaks in the Northern Alps, yet it is accessible to climbers of all levels.

The most common route to the summit starts from Tatamidaira (畳平) at an already high elevation of 2,700m, which can be reached by bus from the Norikura Kogen area. From Tatamidaira, the trail to the summit is a gentle ascent of about 1.5 hours. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for families and beginner climbers.

View from the summit of Mount Norikura’s Kengamine Peak. | ©photoAC

One of the unique features of Mount Norikura is the variety of landscapes it offers. Climbers can enjoy lush alpine meadows, volcanic craters, and stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The summit provides a 360-degree panorama, with views of Mount Ontake, the Central Alps, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day.

⑤ Mount Shirouma: Climb up a snow field in summer

Summit: 2,932m
Ascent (varies depending on individual): 7 hours
Descent (varies depending on individual): 4 hours

Mount Shirouma is one of Hakuba’s most iconic peaks. | ©photoAC

Mount Shirouma (白馬岳 Shiroumadake), also known as Mount Hakuba (Hakuba-dake), is one of the most iconic peaks in the Northern Alps, standing at 2,932m. It is renowned for its challenging climb and the unique experience of traversing a snow field even in the summer months.

Mount Shirouma’s famous Daisekkei snow field. | ©photoAC

The climb to Mount Shirouma typically starts from Sarukura (猿倉), with a popular route crossing over the Daisekkei (大雪渓), a large snow field that remains even during the summer. The ascent to the summit takes about 6-8 hours, making it a demanding climb that requires proper equipment and preparation.

The trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, with the Daisekkei providing a unique and exhilarating experience. The summit of Mount Shirouma offers breathtaking vistas of the Northern Alps, and climbing enthusiasts can continue on multi-day hikes traversing the nearby mountains.

⑥ Mount Tateshina: An easy day hike

Summit: 2,531m
Ascent (varies depending on individual): 3 hours
Descent (varies depending on individual): 2 hours

View of Mount Tateshina from Lake Megami. | ©photoAC

Mount Tateshina (蓼科山 Tateshinayama), also known as Suwa-Fuji (諏訪富士), is a prominent peak in the Northern Yatsugatake Mountains. At 2,531m, it is known for its conical shape and relatively easy climb, making it a popular destination for both beginners and experienced climbers.

The most common route to the summit starts from the Tateshina Kogen area, with a well-marked trail that takes about 3 hours to ascend. The trail passes through beautiful forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain, offering a variety of landscapes along the way.

View from the summit of Mount Tateshina. | ©photoAC

The summit of Mount Tateshina provides stunning views of the surrounding peaks, including the Yatsugatake Mountains and the Central Alps. On clear days, climbers can enjoy a panoramic view that stretches all the way to Mount Fuji.

To “summit” all up

Nagano Prefecture’s mountainous landscape offers a wealth of climbing opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From the more accessible climbs of Mount Norikura and Mount Tateshina to the challenging ascents of Mount Tsubakuro and Mount Shirouma, there is something for climbers of all levels. 

Whether you are seeking breathtaking panoramas, or the unique thrill of traversing snow fields in summer, these six mountains provide unforgettable experiences that showcase the natural beauty of Nagano. So lace up your hiking boots and set out to explore these remarkable peaks, each offering its own unique adventure in the heart of Japan!

Equip yourself with the JR EAST PASS (Nagano, Niigata area) and climb on!

Area coverage of JR EAST PASS (Nagano, Niigata area) | ©JR East

If you are thinking of visiting Nagano Prefecture to climb one of these six summits, check out the JR東日本鐵路周遊券（長野&新潟地區）. Priced at ¥27,000, this regional rail pass offers unlimited rail travel on JR East lines (including bullet trains) in the valid area for 5 consecutive days. 

You can also make seat reservations for bullet trains, some limited express trains and Joyful Trains online for free, up to 1 month in advance, on the JR-EAST Train Reservation.

Did you know? The JR東日本鐵路周遊券（長野&新潟地區） is now conveniently available at JAPAN RAIL CLUB, purchase it today if you’re thinking of heading to places like Nagano, Karuizawa, Echigo-Yuzawa, and so on from Tokyo!

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