Mt Takatsuma

Mt Takatsuma (Japanese: 高妻山) is one of the most characterful peaks in northern Nagano. It's a hyakumeizan* mountain that looks gentle from afar but which soon reveals its true, demanding nature. The approach begins in the unusual location of an auto campsite and quiet cow pasture, where the trailhead sits tucked behind grazing fields. The climb that follows is anything but gentle.

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I usually climb this mountain in a loop course. The left-hand trail rises steeply up a forested valley, the path narrowing as you gain altitude. One of the most memorable sections is the traverse above a waterfall that is a narrow ledge cut into the slope, where you cross just above the drop. It’s not technical, but it demands care, especially when the rocks are damp. Beyond this point, the valley tightens and the climb becomes more sustained, pulling you upward until you finally reach the ridgeline.

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From here, the mountain reveals its true scale. The ridge is undulating, rising and falling in long waves, and just when you think you’ve gained enough height, you look ahead and realize in despair that the summit is still far in the distance. To reach it, you must descend again before beginning the huge final ascent. 

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At the top, the reward is superb with the North Alps clearly visible from the summit. In autumn, the colours around Takatsuma are spectacular with deep reds, golds and oranges lighting up the ridgeline. It’s my favourite season to climb here, and I usually descend back to the pasture using the steep trail on the other side of the valley from the one I climbed.

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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.)