Mt Kosumo

Mt Kosumo (越百岳) is one of the more remote peaks of the Central Alps, a quiet sanbyakumeizan* that rewards those willing to make the long journey into its deep forests. Reaching the trailhead at Inagawa Dam already feels like an adventure. The forest road is narrow, winding and treacherous in places, and by the time you arrive, the sense of isolation is unmistakable. From there, the climb begins in earnest: a long, steep and lonely ascent through dense woodland where hikers are few and the mountain feels entirely your own.

​

Most people, myself included, stay at the Kosumo mountain hut, located about an hour below the summit. The hut is simple and atmospheric, and on summer evenings it becomes a wonderfully peaceful place to rest after the long approach. Reservations are required, and it’s essential to check in advance whether the hut is open. Its remote location means that services are limited and seasonal.

​

The final climb to the summit is steep but rewarding. Views open toward Mt Utsugi (空木岳) to the north and across the surrounding ridges of the Central Alps. The sense of distance is striking: Kosumo feels far from everything, a peak that demands commitment and experience. Because of its remoteness and the length of the approach, it’s best suited for seasoned hikers who are comfortable with long days and quiet trails.

​

I climbed Mt Kosumo in summer and enjoyed a fantastic evening with fellow hikers at the hut. It was one of those rare mountain nights where silence, remoteness and clear air combined into something unforgettable. It’s a mountain that offers not just scenery but a genuine sense of being deep in the heart of the Central Alps.

​

* 300 famous mountains of Japan

​

(All information here is based on personal observations and experiences. Check official sources before planning or starting any hikes.)