Mount Kaerikumo, Mountain summit in Shirakawa, Japan
Mount Kaerikumo rises to 1,622 meters within the Hida Mountains, where varied landscapes and multiple hiking trails characterize the terrain. The slopes contain different natural zones, each offering different views and walking experiences.
A fortress was built near the summit in the 15th century to control the surrounding area. A major earthquake in 1585 caused a landslide that buried both the castle and nearby settlements beneath the slopes.
The mountain serves as a gathering place where local traditions continue to shape how people experience the landscape today. Seasonal activities and celebrations mark the rhythm of community life in the surrounding region.
Visitors can reach the mountain via the Shirakawagō Interchange on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway, then follow National Route 156 for about 15 minutes. Spring through fall offers the most stable weather for hiking and trail navigation.
Buried beneath the slopes are remains of the castle and village that disappeared in 1585, preserved by layers of rock and earth. These hidden ruins tell a story of how the landscape itself was dramatically reshaped.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
