Autumn is particularly recommended for trekking as the mountains display red and yellow foliage and the climate is mild. Spring attracts wildflower enthusiasts to see the Iwauchiwa blooms on Mount Hakushu, while summer offers lush greenery and cooler temperatures compared to lowland areas. Winter sees nearly 2 meters of snow accumulation, making the trail inaccessible without specialized equipment such as snowshoes.
The Takashimizu Trail is considered suitable even for beginners due to its well-maintained course paved with fluffy wood chips that are gentle on the feet and hips. The trail follows the ridge line at elevations between 735 and 1,044 meters, and hikers can adjust their trek according to their time and physical ability. Even in midsummer, temperatures rarely exceed 30 degrees Celsius, making conditions comfortable for trekking.
The full 8,132-meter circuit trail can be adjusted based on individual preferences and fitness levels. Hikers can choose to complete the entire loop or turn back at various points along the ridge. The trail offers multiple viewpoints including Mount Takashimizu at 950 meters and Mount Hakushu at 1,044 meters, allowing visitors to customize their hiking experience based on available time.
The trail passes through primeval beech forests and features colonies of Iwauchiwa, a rare wildflower endemic to Japan with pale pink-purple blooms that is designated as endangered in some prefectures. The forest environment provides opportunities for nature observation throughout the four seasons, with changing vegetation and mountain scenery along the ridge path.
The trail begins and ends at Ningyo Pass in Kagamino Town, where hikers can access the trailhead. There is an arbor (rest shelter) at the top of Mount Takashimizu that serves as a resting spot. For specific information about parking facilities and other amenities at the trailhead, contact the Kagamino Tourism Bureau at 0868-52-9100. The trail itself requires no admission fee.
