Join us on an epic 登山 (mountaineering) journey in the stunning 北アルプス (Northern Alps) of Japan. In this video, we take on the challenging Tateyama-Tsurugi Traverse, a hike that offers jaw-dropping vistas, technical terrain, and an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Japan Alps.
Last year, I hiked two of the most dangerous hiking routes in the Northern Alps 北アルプス. Yari-Hotaka-Circuit and Gendarme - Okuhotaka Traverse. This got me asking myself "What's really the hardest hike in the Northern Alps?" now, I'm down to just one more mountain and that's Mount Tsurugi.
🏞️ Hike Highlights 🏞️
- Spectacular Scenery: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Japan Alps, with panoramic views of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and pristine landscapes.
Tateyama & Tsurugidake Summits: Conquer the summits of Tateyama and Tsurugidake, two iconic peaks in the 北アルプス (Northern Alps).
- Technical Challenges: Navigate rocky sections, exposed ridges, and steep ascents, testing your mountaineering skills.
- Route Information:
This hike can be done in 2 days but we opted for a 3-day trip. The idea is to hike the Tateyama mountains on day 1 and try to summit Mount Tsurugi on day 2 or day 3. Allowing us to have an option to summit in the best weather conditions. The hiking course starts and ends at Murodo station.
DAY 1: Murodo ~ Tateyama ~ Bessan ~ Tsurugisawa ~ Kenzanso
DAY 2: Kenzanso ~ Tsurugidake ( option 1 )
DAY 3: Kenzanso ~ Tsurugidake ~ Kenzanso ~ Raichosawa ~ Murodo ( option 2 )
🌄 Timing and Preparation 🌄
- Best Season: Learn when to tackle this traverse (typically in the summer) and how to prepare for unpredictable weather conditions.
- Gear Essentials: Discover the necessary gear and equipment for a safe and successful hike in the Japan Alps.
https://thejapanalps.com/en/nakata-map/tsurugi/ - a detailed guide on how to hike Mount Tsurugi
🏕️ Mountain Huts and Accommodation 🏕️
Explore the available accommodations along the route, including cozy mountain huts that provide shelter during your mountain adventure.
Japanese Website: https://www.kenzanso.com/
English Website: https://thejapanalps.com/en/mountain-hut/kenzansou/
ACCESS:
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route:
https://thejapanalps.com/en/access-ogizawa/
To access Murodo. Travel to Ogizawa and take the HAKUBA ~ OGIZAWA ALPEN LINER.
The journey to Murodo station involves several transfers between trolley buses and cable cars. First, is a trolley bus going to Kurobe Dam. Kurobe Dam is the tallest and most popular dam in Japan. Followed by a cable car going up to Kurobedaira and another cable car to Daikanbo. The last transfer is a trolley bus to Murodo station.
HELPFUL LINKS:
https://www.kantoadventures.com/ - Guided us through this trip.
https://thejapanalps.com/en/nakata-map/tsurugi/ - a detailed guide on how to hike Mount Tsurugi
CHAPTERS:
0:00 - 1:05 | INTRO
1:05 - 1:25 | ROUTE INFO
1:26 - 3:40 | ACCESS
3:41 - 9:21 | DAY 1 - Tateyama Mountains
9:25 - 10:21 | DAY 2 - Team Building
10:25 - 18:00 | DAY 3 - Mount Tsurugi
18:00 - 19:49 | My Thoughts
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