Mt Echigokoma

Mt Echigokoma (Japanese: 越後駒ケ岳) is one of Niigata’s great hyakumeizan* mountains. It's a broad, rugged peak deep in the Echigo range, known for its long, demanding ascent. The trail starts at the Shiori pass, which is deep in the mountains on the road that leads to the remote northern side of Oze.

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The climb from this trailhead is long and often punishing. Water is scarce along the route, forcing hikers to carry what they need from the start. The trail rises steeply through dense forest, then breaks into open ridges where the terrain becomes rockier and more exposed. The mountain is not particularly high but feels big because of the sheer distance and effort required to reach its upper slopes. I climbed this mountain on a very hot day in July, and had a near disaster due to miscalculating the amount of water required.

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Just below the summit sits an emergency hut, a simple but essential shelter with a water source that many hikers rely on. From the summit, the views are superb. On clear days, the entire Echigo range unfolds around you with the valleys below appear deep and untouched. The view of nearby Mt Hakkai (八海山) was especially impressive. It’s a panorama that rewards the long, waterless ascent and the quiet endurance required to reach such a remote point.

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* 100 famous mountains of Japan

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