3-day Trek in the southern Yatsugatake Mountains, near Tokyo

This 3-day trek I will take you on leads us in to the heart of the southern Yatsugatake Mountains, near Tokyo, Japan, a region known throughout the country for its hiking and trekking, its sweeping panoramic views which rival that of Mt Fuji, and the diversity of its flora and fauna, with the blooming of alpine flowers in Summer providing an amazing spectacle.

The Yatsugatake Mountains are located just a 3 hour drive from Tokyo, and local legend has it that they were once higher than the world-famous Mt Fuji, before the goddess of Mt Fuji tore them down in a jealous rage to their current height.

We begin the trip on the first day in Shinjyuku, Tokyo, before heading to the town we will base ourselves in, Yatsugatake. The rest of the first day is spent hiking up to our hut where we will stay the night, Seinengoya, renowned for its high quality food and sake.

The second day is very long, as we arise at 5am to prepare for 8-9 hours of hiking across 5 peaks, providing epic views over the land, before staying at our second hut, Honzawakosen, containing the highest outdoor onsen (hot spring) in the country, ensuring a relaxing and refreshing night.

The final day is spent hiking to Shibuno-yu, also containing a spectacular onsen, before we head back to Tokyo in the afternoon.

Along the way we might be lucky enough to encounter some of the animals that inhabit the area such as flying squirrels, deer, Japanese serows, foxes and bears, and the aforementioned alpine flowers ensure you will be constantly reaching for your camera.

By the end of the trip you will hopefully have fallen in love with this very pleasant region and increased your desire to return.

Trekking through the southern Yatsugatake Mountains is stunning, and so close to Tokyo – book now to experience!

For those who prefer their climbing in Winter, try our trip of Winter Mountaineering on Yatsugatake, here!

Alternatively, for those who strive to reach the highest peak only, try our 2-day Winter climbing trip on Mt Akadake’s main ridge, here!