Mount Nishihotaka, Mountain summit in Matsumoto, Japan
Mount Nishihotaka rises to about 2,900 meters and connects along a rocky ridge to the Yakedake volcano in the mountain range. The Shinhotaka Ropeway leads to a year-round mountain hut that serves as a starting point for various routes.
The first documented climb took place in 1906 and marked the beginning of organized mountaineering in this region. Since then, the route has been a fixture of Japanese alpinism.
The mountain is part of the Northern Alps and draws climbers from across Japan who practice traditional mountaineering culture here. The mountain hut serves as a meeting point for hikers and creates a community of peak seekers with shared goals.
The ropeway shortens the approach considerably and allows less experienced hikers to reach higher elevations. Those who want to stay longer can sleep at the hut and start early the next morning.
The mountain divides into two distinct sections: the first area up to the Nishiho-Doppyo peak is accessible for regular hikers. Beyond that, the route requires technical skills and specialized equipment.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
