The ideal time to hike Mount Akaishi is from July to September when the weather is most stable, and the trails are accessible. Snow remains on the higher elevations until mid-summer, so earlier visits may require snow equipment.
The hike to Mount Akaishi's summit is considered strenuous and suitable for experienced hikers. The trail involves steep ascents, rocky paths, and a significant elevation gain, requiring good physical fitness.
Yes, there are mountain huts along the trail, such as the Akaishi Sanso Hut. These huts provide basic amenities like food and shelter, but reservations are recommended during peak hiking seasons.
Due to the length and difficulty of the hike, most people take at least two days to reach the summit and return. There are several campsites and mountain huts where hikers can stay overnight.
Starting from Sawarajima and staying at Akaishi Hut, we climbed Mt. Akaishi on the second day. It was quite a climb, but there were few dangerous spots. When we started from the mountain hut, Mt. Akaishi was located just behind Mt. Ko-Akaishi, but as we climbed, it gradually came into view. We were late in the season, but apparently there were flower fields along the way.
Once we reached the fork in the ridge, we were almost there. Many people seem to leave their luggage here and make a round trip. The view of the Arakawa Sanzan mountains from the Mt. Akaishi side was beautiful.
The view from the summit is good, but it's narrow, so I think it's best to take a break around Akaishi Shelter Hut, a little further down. There's also a Kushidango sign further ahead, where you can take photos with Mt. Fuji in the background and eat lunch while looking at the view.
This time, we even saw a stoat here.
After this, we headed to Arakawa Hut.
This is Mt. Akaishi from Oshika Village.
It looks beautiful on a clear day. In early spring, you can enjoy the snow-capped peaks.
It's about 15km from Onishi Park in Oshika Village, but you can see it clearly.
The climb from Akashi Hut was tough.
I thought I'd be discouraged first thing in the morning, but the view when I arrived was all the more impressive.
You can see Mount Fuji and the Southern Alps.
Above all, this 3,000-meter ridgeline is just so refreshing.
I even got to see a Japanese ptarmigan. Its adorable appearance soothed my fatigue.
