Mount Hotaka (Hotakadake)

Hotakadake, also known as Mount Hotaka, stands as Japan's third-highest peak at 3,190 meters (10,466 feet) in the Northern Japan Alps of Nagano and Gifu prefectures. The mountain is part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park and comprises several peaks, with Okuhotakadake serving as the highest point. The name derives from a deity in Japanese mythology, and the mountain has been considered sacred since ancient times, attracting both religious pilgrims and mountaineers for centuries.

The mountain holds immense significance in Japanese alpine culture as one of the most challenging and prestigious climbs in the country. Its dramatic ridgelines, steep rock faces, and the famous Daikiretto traverse make it a pinnacle achievement for serious hikers. The area is renowned for its alpine flora during summer months and spectacular autumn foliage, while winter transforms it into a technical mountaineering destination suitable only for experienced climbers with proper equipment.

Visitors can experience multiple routes to the summit, with the most popular approach beginning from Kamikochi, a scenic highland valley accessible from April through mid-November. The standard route takes climbers through the Karasawa Cirque, a stunning glacial valley, before ascending to Hotakadake Mountain Hut, where many overnight before summiting.

The round trip typically requires two days, though experienced hikers sometimes complete it in one exhausting day. The Daikiretto route, connecting Hotakadake to Mount Yarigatake, is considered one of Japan's most thrilling ridge walks but demands technical climbing skills and a head for heights.

Access to Kamikochi requires taking a bus from Matsumoto or Takayama, as private vehicles are prohibited in the valley. Buses run from late April to early November, with the journey from Matsumoto taking approximately 90 minutes. Mountain huts along the routes charge approximately ¥9,000-12,000 per night including two meals, though prices vary by facility and season. No entrance fee applies to the national park itself, but the Kamikochi area charges a ¥2,000 conservation fee.