Mt. Nishihotaka 2-Day Hiking Trip – Let’s Climb Together!

# 🏔️ Mt. Nishihotaka 2-Day Hiking Trip – Let’s Climb Together!

A weekend adventure into the Japanese Alps: fresh air, stunning views, and the joy of reaching the summit as a team.
Dates: September 20–21, 2025
Destination: Mt. Nishihotaka (西穂高岳), Chūbu Sangaku National Park

***

🌄 About Mt. Hotaka
Mt. Hotaka (穂高岳) is one of the most iconic ranges in the Northern Japan Alps. Its rugged ridges, dramatic peaks, and wide alpine views attract hikers from across Japan.
Our goal is Mt. Nishihotaka (2,909m) — a perfect summit for first-time visitors to the Alps. Thanks to the Shinhotaka Ropeway, we can quickly reach high altitude, stay overnight at Hotaka Hut, and enjoy a safe but exciting climb to the peak.

***

📅 Itinerary
Day 1 – Saturday, Sept. 20
Shinhotaka Ropeway → Hotaka Hut

• 09:00 Meet at Shinhotaka Ropeway (新穂高ロープウェイ, Shirakabadaira Station)
• 09:30 Ropeway ride to Nishihotakaguchi Station (2,156m)
• 10:00 Start hike toward Hotaka Hut (西穂山荘)
• Hiking time: 1.5–2 hrs (gentle, well-marked trail)
• 12:00–13:00 Arrive at Hotaka Hut (2,380m)
• Check in, lunch, rest
• Afternoon option: Short hike to Maruyama (丸山, 2,452m) (~1 hr round trip)
• Evening: Dinner at the hut, group time, early rest

Overnight: Hotaka Hut (reservation required)

***

Day 2 – Sunday, Sept. 21
Hotaka Hut → Mt. Nishihotaka Summit → Return

• 04:30–05:00 Wake up, breakfast
• 05:30 Start summit climb
• Pass through 独標 (Doppyo) and ピラミッドピーク (Pyramid Peak)
• Some rocky, exposed ridges, safety chains, and even a ladder – helmet recommended for safety
• Hiking time: 3–4 hrs up
• 09:00–10:00 Reach Mt. Nishihotaka summit (2,909m) 🎉
• Panoramic views of Okuhotaka, Yarigatake, and Kamikochi
• 10:30 Descend to Hotaka Hut (2–3 hrs)
• 13:30 Rest and light lunch at the hut
• 14:00 Hike down to Nishihotakaguchi Station (1.5–2 hrs)
• 16:00 Ropeway down to Shirakabadaira Station
• 16:30–17:00 End of trip

***

✅ What to Bring

• Clothing: Layered wear, warm jacket, gloves, hat
• Gear: Hiking boots, helmet, rain gear, headlamp, backpack
• Food/Drink: Trail snacks, water (meals provided at hut if reserved)
• Other: Travel insurance, personal items, camera

***

💡 Trip Highlights

• Ropeway ride straight into the high Alps 🚡
• Overnight stay at Hotaka Hut 🏠
• A 2,900m-class summit with panoramic views 🏔️
• Group adventure – climb together, share the challenge 👥
• September air, crisp and clear, with hints of autumn colors 🍁

***

⚠️ Safety Notes & Tips

• Helmet required: Essential for rocky sections, exposed ridges, and areas with safety chains or ladders
• Follow trail markers and safety chains: Do not take shortcuts; stay on the marked route
• Watch your footing: Some sections are steep, uneven, and slippery
• Weather can change quickly: Bring rain gear and warm layers; turn back if conditions become unsafe
• Pace yourself: Take breaks, drink water, and eat snacks to maintain energy
• Group awareness**:** Stick together and communicate if someone feels tired or unsure

Safety is the top priority — enjoy the adventure while taking care at every step!

***

✨ Join Us!
This trip is perfect for hikers ready for a moderate but rewarding challenge. Let’s climb Mt. Nishihotaka together and make unforgettable memories in the Japanese Alps!
#Nishihotaka #JapaneseAlps #HikingJapan #GroupTrip #AdventureTogether

Organizer, Kanji's Blog