Norikura Climbing Route Guide for Beginners

Mount Norikura is the main peak at 3,026m.KengamineIt is a mountain made up of volcanoes with 23 peaks, including ", 7 lakes, and 8 plains.Japan's 100 Famous MountainsAmong the many peaks on Mt. Norikura, the route from Tatamidaira to Kengamine is very popular and is crowded with many people every year.Mount Fujimi, Mount Maou, Mount DaikokuThere are also hiking routes that are perfect for those who want to enjoy hiking in a more casual and relaxed manner!PtarmiganDicentraThere is also a chance to encounter colonies of these trees, and each one has its own charm! If you have the time and stamina, it would be a good idea to climb all four peaks. Here we will introduce each route and the highlights.

❶ Kengamine (altitude 3026m)

The route from Tatamidaira to Kengamine is the most popular route. Starting from Tatamidaira, you will follow the gentle mountain trail beside Tsurugaike Pond. As you continue along the trail, you will see Mt. Fujimi on your left, and at the bottom left of the trail,snowfieldYou may see people enjoying summer skiing. Beyond that is Katano Hut. The garden behind the hut is a resting spot, so take a short break before setting off.

Beyond that is a hiking trail covered with Japanese stone pine. There are lots of rocks underfoot, so walk slowly and without rushing. Once you get past that, the hiking trail becomes a rocky one, continuing to the summit of Mt. Santama-dake. The vivid cobalt blue pond visible from the summit is Gongen Pond. After about five minutes, you will see a sign for the summit hut (the summit hut only has a shop). From here, it is a short climb to the summit of Mt. Kengamine. At the summit there is a shrine to Asahi Gongensha. The view is 360 degrees! From the summitA panoramic view of the Northern Alps, including Mount Yari and Mount HotakaIn addition, there are Yatsugatake to the east andSouthern Alps and Central AlpsAfter enjoying the view, you may feel a little relaxed, but it's easy to fall on the way down, so be sure to watch your step and be careful of other people.

Time required: Approximately 90 minutes from Tatamidaira to the summit
Difficulty: ★★★

❷ Mt. Fujimi (altitude 2,817m)

There are two hiking trails to Mt. Fujimi. The first is to walk from Tatamidaira along the side of Tsurugaike Pond, and then climb up the mountain path of sand and small rocks for about 20 minutes from near the road where there is a sign for the Nagano-Gifu border. The second is to walk past the flower fields and head towards Mt. Kengamine, then start climbing from the Fujimi-dake junction along the way.

Both at the end,Sand and small rocks mountain pathFrom the summit, you can see Mt. Kengamine to the south, Mt. Yari to the north, and the Hotaka mountain range. Even beginners can climb to the top as long as they have no problems with their legs and back, so even seniors and children in the lower grades of elementary school who are confident in their physical strength should definitely give it a try. Mt. Fujimi isA popular spot for viewing the sunriseThere areDicentra colonywill also be there to greet you.

Time required: Approximately 25 minutes from Tatamidaira to the summit
Difficulty: ★★

※This course starts from Tatamidaira and walks along the side of Tsurugaike Pond, then starts climbing near the road with the Nagano-Gifu prefecture border sign.

❸ Mt. Maoudake (2763m above sea level)

The trailhead for Mt. Maou is located just north of the Tatamidaira bus terminal. The trail is well-maintained with stairs, making it an easy hiking trail. It is the easiest mountain to climb among Mt. Norikura.After climbing for about 10 to 15 minutes, you will reach the summitFrom the summit, you can see the peaks of the Northern Alps, including Mt. Kasagatake, Mt. Yakedake, and Mt. Yari, across the Norikura Skyline.

Contrary to its name, "Maou-dake," it is a gentle mountain where even those with small children can enjoy the satisfaction of reaching the summit. If you're lucky, you might even have a chance to see a Japanese ptarmigan.

Time required: Approximately 15 minutes from Tatamidaira to the summit
Difficulty: ★

❹ Mt. Daikoku (altitude 2,772 m)

The trailhead is located next to the bus stop at an altitude of 2,716 m on the border between Nagano and Gifu prefectures.Along the hiking trail, you can see DicentraYou will be greeted by a cluster of trees, and the sight may be soothing. After about a 20-minute walk, you will soon reach the summit. From the summit, you can see Mount Yari and the Hotaka mountain range.

Mount Daikoku isA popular spot for viewing the sunriseWhy not come here to enjoy the mystical sight of the rising sun and the divine scenery that unfolds in the surrounding area?

Time required: Approximately 20 minutes from Tatamidaira to the summit
Difficulty: ★★

Perfect for sightseeing before or after Mt. Norikura!

Read "Get to know Norikura"

The charm of easily accessible Mount Norikura!

Read "#05 To the world of the sky at 3000m"

乗鞍岳-畳平マップ

Ichinose Grassland Norikura Three Great Waterfalls

Before and after enjoying Mt. Norikura.