National Parks Of Japan
Hiking
Distance
9.9 km
Time
5 h45min
Start
Mount Hiuchi Trailhead (Kyukamura Myoko Sasagamine Campground)
Finish
Sasagamine Greenhouse

Mount Hiuchi Trail

Scale the summit of Mount Hiuchi and explore beautiful marshlands, meadows, and rock gardens

This hike takes you to the soaring summit of the 2,462-meter Mount Hiuchi. On the way, you will pass by the serene Kurosawaike Pond and the 2,171-meter peak of Mount Chausu. Take a break at Koyaike Pond before you continue on to the lush Tengu-no-Niwa Marsh. When you arrive at Mount Hiuchi's peak, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Mount Myoko. The hike ends in the Sasagamine Highlands, where you will find idyllic meadows and woodland paths.

It is best to stay overnight at a mountain lodge, so that you can enjoy the landscape at a leisurely pace. Be sure to come with appropriate hiking gear, such as sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, and plenty of drinking water.

Highlights

Tengu-no-Niwa Marsh

Tengu-no-Niwa Marsh and natural rock garden

The path between the Koyaike Pond and Tengu-no-Niwa Marsh is surrounded by a natural rock garden and offers beautiful views of Mount Hiuchi. At Tengu-no-Niwa Marsh, you will find flowering clusters of Hakusan kozakura (Primula cuneifolia Ledeb. var. hakusanensis makino) in the spring and cotton grass in the summer.
A male rock ptarmigan guarding its territory

Rock ptarmigans

The rock ptarmigan is a Special Natural Monument of Japan. It is a member of the grouse family and can be found in alpine areas. Mount Hiuchi is the rock ptarmigan's northernmost habitat in Japan, and the 20 to 30 rock ptarmigans that populate the area lay the largest number of eggs in the country. You may encounter them between Raichodaira and Mount Hiuchi's summit.
Sasagamine Highlands

Sasagamine Highlands

The Sasagamine Highlands are located at an altitude of 1,300 meters. Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains from Lake Otomi, and explore the nearby spruce forest. In the forest, you will find Udana-no-Shimizu, a natural spring. Take a sip of the refreshing Udana spring waters before you head to restaurant Sasagamine Green House* for their Kubiki jumbo beef steak, a local specialty. *The restaurant is closed from November to late April.

Trail Map

Mount Hiuchi Trail

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