Ogawayama Rock Climbing: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Ogawayama is a Japanese mountain on the island of Honshu that sits between the prefectures of Yamanashi and Nagano. At 2,418 meters, it is a formidable peak and rock climbing paradise made of long granite slabs and a diverse selection of great routes. Climbs are graded anywhere from 4 to 8, accommodating the inexperienced beginners and the seasoned veterans alike. Ogawayama boasts both trad climbing and sport climbing, with single-pitch, multi-pitch, and bouldering routes. The collection of more than 700 routes is set over a large region within a scenic valley. This is one of Japan’s premiere locations for rock climbing, so any trip here is sure to please every traveler in need of an adventure.

Lush Scenery!

One of the perks of climbing at Ogawayama is the green setting. Peering out from one of its granite vantage points, you can feel the sensation of flying above an endless green forest. The routes are many, but some have the length and distance to give you an immersive experience in the natural beauty of Ogawayama.

Eclectic Climbing!

Whether you want to try out some bouldering or test your skills on a challenging multi-pitch route, Ogawayama has it all. Slabs, cracks, and steep walls are available for ambitious climbers, while more basic single-pitch and bouldering routes help ease novice climbers into the sport. Advanced climbers should try the infamous Banshousha (8b+/8c) and Kakusei (8c) routes.

Wilderness Adventure!

The climbing area sits pretty high up the mountain - above 1,600 meters. There is a campsite a little further down the mountain to help transition climbers to and from the slabs. Many programs offer campfire tours that last all weekend, so the cultural benefit of Japanese-style camping can be added to give you a total mountain experience.

It can be far too cold to enjoy a climb from late October into May. As the spring pushes out the unstable weather patterns, the temperatures increase into the summer months. It can be uncomfortably hot into the fall.

Japanese

Yen (JPY)

The Shinkansen takes about four hours from Tokyo, while buses and other trains can take a little longer. Nagano is also another close transportation hub.

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Climbing Ogawayama is a summer affair (think May through October), though it can get crowded during peak season. Early and late season trips can be more pleasant and manageable.