MOUNT ONTAKE

Standing 3,067m tall, Mount Ontake is Japan’s second largest volcano. It has been a site of mountain worship since ancient times and remains popular with devotees, climbers and snow sport enthusiasts alike. The climbing season runs from mid-July to mid-October where a number of trails of varying difficulty are available. Along these paths, hikers can enjoy the natural beauty, ancient shrines and perhaps even catch a glimpse of white-clad pilgrims in prayer. The five crater lakes are an unforgettable sight, sparkling like emeralds in the landscape. The lowest altitude lake, Gonoike, conveniently features a café and lodge for those needing a rest stop. Winter is a time to enjoy skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports on the slopes of Mount Ontake. Whether snow-capped or lush green, Mount Ontake is an impressive sight all year-round.

MOUNTAIN TREKKING

Level of difficulty:  3 out of 5 (elevation change 917m)

When to climb:  Early July to mid October

Access:   Via bus from Kiso-Fukushima Station

Take the bus bound for Tanohara to the final stop and commence your hike. Please note that only three buses travel here each day, so plan accordingly.

Alternatively, take a bus bound for the Ontake Ropeway and get off at the gondola. In a matter of minutes, you’ll be at 2,100m, ready to commence your walk. Similarly, only three buses head here per day. Although the Ropeway is open from late April to early November, bus timetables vary. The bus runs daily between July 18th and August 30th, then only on weekends in September, October and early July.