Hiking Courses

Hiking Courses

Hiking Course A
Mt. Tsubakuro

Hiking Courses MapHiking Courses Map
Day 1 Nakabusa Mt. Tsubakuro Trail Head ~ Enzansou Mountain Hut ~ Mt. Tsubakuro (roundtrip to summit) 5hr
Day 2 Enzansou Mountain Lodge ~ Nakabusa Mt. Tsubakuro Trail Head 2hr 40min
Rising 2763m above sea level, the shining white granite mountain called Mt. Tsubakuro is also known as the Queen of the Northern Alps. As you walk along the ridge towards the summit, highlights include unusual rock formations called glass rock or dolphin rock and alpine flowers called komakusa which bloom abundantly in this area. The “Enzansou” Mountain Hut built in 1921 is one of the most popular mountain huts in Japan offering lodging, a tea house as well as a souvenir shop.

From the trailhead, the Kassen Ridge trail ascends 1250m up to the hut and is considered one of the three steepest ascents in the Alps. The trail is long and steep but is well maintained making it a good introductory course to the Northern Alps for beginner to intermediate hikers. Stop by Benches No 1, 2, 3 and Fujimi bench to rest along the way as well as the Kassen Hut which although it doesn’t have accommodations, offers food including a local “mountain” specialty – watermelon! Upon reaching Enzansou, check-in and make one more push up to the summit and back.

Mt. Tsubakuro

Advice

Kassen Ridge is long and steep. Maintain an even pace and don't rush. The Higashizawa route is for experienced hikers only. Nakabusa Onsen and Ariake Onsen hotsprings are located near the trailhead.
View Map
The uniquely shaped “Dolphin rock” along Kassen Ridge.

The uniquely shaped "Dolphin rock" along Kassen Ridge.

Hikers wait for the sunrise in front of Enzansou Mountain Hut.

Hikers wait for the sunrise in front of Enzansou Mountain Hut.

Built in 1921, the Enzansou Mountain Hut has a long history.

Built in 1921, the Enzansou Mountain Hut has a long history.

A male raicho (ptarmigan) with its summer plumage.

A male raicho (ptarmigan) with its summer plumage.

Mt. Tsubakuro and colorful tents during the summer.

Mt. Tsubakuro and colorful tents during the summer.

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