Hike Sarugi Ridge to Mitake (Hard for Beginners)

Hiking course of ~5 hours, but we'll take some time for lunch and breaks.

General schedule:
9:30 - Meet at Musashi-Itsukaichi station outside South ticket gate. You will NOT have much time to buy supplies or to use the toilet.
9:35 - Take bus to 大岳鍾乳洞入口 - If you are late, we WILL NOT WAIT because the next bus is at 11:05. Bus #52 toward Kami-Yozawa
10:10 - 大岳鍾乳洞入口 - You may meet us here if this is better for you but please tell me in advance.
15:00 - Top of Mitake Cable Car station. We will take the Cable Car down. Those who want to may walk down and find their own way back to the Mitake station. This is not a round trip.

Elevation change of ~700 but there are some steep parts up and down with chains so beginners might find this hard. Experienced hikers might find this to be medium or medium-hard.

Stops along the way:
Bus stop 357m
Onakonoatama 656m 大名子ノ頭
Takaiwayama 921m 高岩山
Kamitakaiwayama 1011m 上高岩山
Nabewariyama 1082m 鍋割山

Photos from past hikes:
- https://www.meetup.com/tokyo-science-and-nature-meetup/events/306531471/
- https://www.meetup.com/tokyo-science-and-nature-meetup/events/304002191/

Notes:

• We can NOT wait for latecomers due to the bus schedule.
• No smoking and no bear bell(s). I know there is a concern about bear attacks around Japan, but bells have not been shown to be consistently effective. Group conversation and walking sounds are said to be better deterrents.
• By coming to this event, you are agreeing that you are responsible for your own safety. I have no survival or first aid skills.
• Bring about 1.0-1.5L of water/soft drink and a lunch. Bring more water if you think you will need more.
• Weather can change unexpectedly, so prepare accordingly.
• You might get sweaty, so I recommend a towel.
• Your shoes will get dirty.
• No meetup fee thanks to Liliya (group owner).