Kamikochi to Hotaka
Day by Day
Day 1
8 km+1,200 m6–7 hrsBus from Matsumoto to Kamikochi. Hike along Azusa River to Yokoo-sanso. Gradual uphill on well-maintained trail. Cross Karasawa Cirque if conditions allow.
Day 2
6 km+800 m / −600 m8–9 hrsThe Hotaka ladder. 10 meters of vertical steel fixed to the rock face. Use both hands. Don't look down until you're at the top. Ridge walk to Okuhotaka (3,190 m), highest peak in Northern Alps.
Day 3
10 km−1,800 m6–7 hrsDescend via Maehotaka ridge. Steep scree section near the bottom. Trekking poles essential. Bus from Tokusawa back to Matsumoto.
What's Provided
- Hut reservations (2 nights)
- GPX route map
- JMGA certified guide
- Hut meals (dinner & breakfast)
- Transport from trailhead
What You Need
- Hiking boots (B1 minimum)
- Waterproof jacket & pants
- 30L+ pack
- Headlamp + spare batteries
- Warm layers (fleece/down)
- Gloves for ladder section
Physical Prep
You should be comfortable hiking 8 km with 1,000 m elevation gain in a day. The ladder section requires upper body strength and a head for heights. Previous multi-day hiking experience recommended.
Your Guide
Kenji Mori
Kenji Mori has guided this route over 80 times. He knows the exact spot where the ladder ice forms first and carries a spare rope for nervous clients. He'll point out the edelweiss growing from the ridge cracks.
Price per person
¥68,000
Includes guide, huts, meals, transport from trailhead