Elevation Profile
About This Trail
Mount Hotaka (Okuhotaka-dake), at 3,190 meters, is Japan's third-highest peak and the centerpiece of the Northern Alps. This is a serious alpine climb requiring technical skills, proper equipment, and an overnight stay at a mountain hut.
The route passes through the Karasawa Cirque, a massive glacial bowl that is widely considered the most spectacular alpine campsite in Japan. Surrounded by towering peaks on three sides, camping here (or staying at the Karasawa Hut) is an experience that rivals the summit itself.
Chain Sections
The upper portions of the Hotaka Range feature "chain sections" — ladder-like metal rungs and cables bolted directly to the rock face. These require a head for heights and basic scrambling skills. In wet conditions, they can be treacherous. A helmet is strongly recommended.
Day-by-Day Breakdown
Day 1: Kamikochi to Karasawa Cirque
Kamikochi
1,580 m
Start at the Kappa Bridge area. Register at the mountain office. First 3km follow the same flat trail as the Kamikochi Valley Walk.
Yokoo
1,580 m
Trail junction. Leave the valley floor and begin ascending. The character changes dramatically — you're now in alpine terrain.
Karasawa Cirque
2,500 m
Your overnight destination. The cirque is a massive glacial bowl surrounded by peaks. Karasawa Hut offers beds and meals. Advance reservations essential.
Day 2: Karasawa to Summit and Return
Kitahotaka Col
2,900 m
Early start (4-5 AM). Steep climb to the col. First chain sections appear here. Use of hands required on rock.
Main Ridge
3,050 m
Exposed ridgeline with chain sections. Spectacular views but no room for error. Helmets essential for rockfall.
Okuhotaka Summit
3,190 m
Japan's 3rd highest peak. 360° views of the entire Northern Alps. Return via same route or continue to Yarigatake for a traverse.
Required Skills & Gear
- Prior experience with exposed, technical terrain
- Comfort with heights and chain/ladder sections
- Helmet (rockfall risk on ridge)
- Harness and via ferrata set recommended for chains
- Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
- Gloves for chain sections
- Layers for temperature variation (5-25°C)
- Headlamp for early morning summit push