Mt Shogikashira

Mt Shōgikashira (Japanese: 将棋頭山) is one of the quieter peaks in the northern part of the Central Alps. It's a mountain that rewards effort with solitude and unexpectedly grand views. Starting from the small Katsurakoba car park at the end of a long forest road in Ina, hikers face a long, steep ascent through dense forest. The climb feels remote, and the glimpses of the summit through the foliage can seem daunting, distant, and far above. Relatively few hikers come this way, which only adds to the sense of immersion in the mountain’s deep woods.

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Eventually the trail breaks onto the ridgeline, and the world opens. Views stretch across to the more famous Mt Kisokoma and the surrounding peaks of the Central Alps, their granite forms rising in layered ridges. The ridge walk is one of the highlights of the climb, especially on clear days .

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The final push to the summit is steep but short, and the summit area itself is remarkable. This is one of the places where rock ptarmigans have been reintroduced to the Central Alps through a dedicated breeding program, and it’s not uncommon to see them wandering among the rocks. Their presence gives the summit a special atmosphere that is quiet and alive.

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From the summit, hikers can stay at the Nishi‑Koma hut below, or continue along the ridge toward the far more popular peak of Kisokoma. I’ve climbed Shōgikashira in both summer and in seasons with lingering snow, and each time the mountain has impressed me. The views are wide, the climb is tough enough to feel satisfying and the solitude can feel like a rare gift compared to the more popular peaks of the Central Alps.

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