Yes, the hiking trails are regularly maintained and monitored for safety. As long as hikers follow the designated routes and heed any warnings from park officials, hiking is generally considered safe.
Some of the trails pass by fumaroles, which emit volcanic gases. However, these areas are usually marked off for safety reasons.
The hiking season typically runs from late April to early November, when the trails are free of snow and ice. However, summer can get crowded, so visiting during the shoulder seasons in spring and fall is recommended.
Both Kamikochi and Shinhotaka Onsen have various lodging options, including traditional ryokans and modern hotels. Visitors can also enjoy restaurants and souvenir shops.
The duration of the hike depends on the chosen route, but most hikers complete the round trip between 5-7 hours. Some trails offer shorter or longer routes for those who want a quicker or more challenging hike.
Traveler reviews
[Stunning Views, Great Effort to Reward ratio] My partner and I climbed Mt Yake through this Nakanoyu Onsen entrance on 10 Nov 2024 (Note that on this date, we found that the entrance to Mt Yake via Kamikochi (which is another trail) was closed for the winter season). We're average hikers and don't hike often, and it took us ~7.5 hours (including a 30 min lunch break at the top). 4hrs up, 3 hrs down (our feet was hurting, but could have done it in 2.5hrs). Trek poles is a good to have for beginner hikers, but not really necessary if you feel confident in general. We found the trek itself moderately challenging, with the main difficulty coming from the more technical middle rocky section and traversing around some big boulders at the top. Overall definitely doable! Note to come early to the start of this trek as parking is somewhat limited and you might have to park along the roadside if you come later.
Hello, I did this hike on 07 June from Kamikochi, and it took me 4hours to reach the summit and 2hr 50min to descend. I’m a person with average fitness, just for perspective.
The first 40min will take you through beautiful lush greenery in the forest, before start climbing. There are several wooden & metal planks crossing, for streams and rocky areas. You will also need to climb around 5 or 6 ladders, with the longest being 10m tall. All these are before you reach the mid-point, where there is a hut (for snacks and water?) As of date, it is not operational but I believe it will be open in July? Do check beforehand. Else bring sufficient water & food.
After the hut is where the real climb begins. Exposed rocks and strong winds. Do bring a windbreaker. This is a hike where poles will definitely help you.
The summit offers a stunning 360 view of the surrounding mountain ranges on a clear day. Congratulate yourself and take time to take it all in!
Quite fun hike, beautiful views and quite special being on an active vulcano and stepping between steaming holes. If you have knee problems or hate having to climb even a bit then I don’t recommend, otherwise YES, DO IT (we even saw some wild monkeys which was a first for me so very exciting:))
The view of the summit is amazing ! Wear good hiking shoes as the path can get very rocky and steep towards the summit.
Bring your own food and water as well!
may 22. trail was a bit soupy from heavy rains yest and little bits of snow to traverse near the top but nothing that pair of non waterproof shoes cant handle. beautiful hike with many different elements. 4 hrs round trip with long break up top.
