Mount Norikura is a potentially active volcano located on the borders of Gifu and Nagano prefectures in Japan, standing at 3,026 meters as the third highest peak in the Northern Japan Alps. The mountain's distinctive name means "riding saddle" in Japanese, derived from its shape that resembles a horse saddle. Listed among the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains and the New 100 Famous Japanese Mountains, it forms part of the prestigious Hida Mountains within Chūbu-Sangaku National Park.
The mountain holds particular significance as the easiest peak of the Japan Alps to climb, making it accessible to hikers of varying skill levels. The summit Ken-gamine reaches 3,026 meters elevation and requires less than two hours to reach from Tatami-daira base, located at 2,702 meters elevation. This accessibility has made Mt. Norikura a popular destination for both serious mountaineers and recreational hikers seeking to experience Japan's alpine environment.
Visitors can experience exceptional hiking opportunities with the summit reachable in just 1.5 hours from the trailhead. The mountain offers spectacular panoramic views of the Northern Japan Alps and serves as a gateway to understanding Japan's volcanic geology. Mt. Norikura is famous for its summer skiing opportunities, providing a unique alpine experience during warmer months. The surrounding Norikura Plateau on the northern Nagano Prefecture side offers additional recreational activities and serves as a base for exploration.
Environmental protection measures are strictly enforced on Mt. Norikura. Since 2003, private vehicle use has been banned on the Skyline road to protect the natural environment, with only buses, bicycles, taxis, and vehicles with special permits allowed. The mountain road is closed to private vehicles year-round, requiring visitors to use buses, taxis, or bicycles, with complete road closures from November to May or June depending on weather conditions and prefecture access points.
Transportation to Mt. Norikura requires careful planning due to access restrictions. The closest major transport hub is Matsumoto Station, easily accessible from Tokyo's Shinjuku Station via JR Chuo Line, as well as from Nagano and Nagoya. The Norikura Kogen Tourist Information Center serves as the main bus terminal where buses from Matsumoto terminate and buses up Mount Norikuradake depart. Multiple free parking lots are available at the mountain base for those driving to the transfer points.
