Mt Goryu

Mt Goryu (Japanese: 五竜岳), meaning five dragons, is one of the most dramatic rocky peaks in the North Alps. It rises in a great, jagged mass above the Hakuba valley and demands both stamina and some head for heights. Its topography is striking from the very beginning. The trail starts at the Hakuba Goryu ski resort, climbing steadily through deep forest before emerging onto the undulating Tomi Ridge, a long, narrow spine with precipitous drops on either side. The path rises and falls repeatedly, each crest offering a wider view of the mountains ahead.

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But the real climb begins at the end of Tomi Ridge, where the massive bulk of Mt. Goryu towers above you. From here, the ascent becomes steep and sustained, weaving through rocky gullies and broken slopes until you reach the main ridge. Just below the crest sits the mountain hut and its small campsite, welcome refuges after the long approach. Most hikers spend the night here, resting before the final push to the summit in the afternoon or early the next morning.

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That last push to the summit is classic North Alps terrain with narrow traverses, steep drops and rocky ledges that require careful movement. In good conditions, it’s exhilarating; in rain, it would be treacherous. It's about a two-hour return trip from the hut with around 300 metres of elevation gain. I’ve climbed Goryu two or three times and always recommend choosing a clear, stable day. At the small, rocky summit, the reward is immense with the views stretching across the entire Northern Alps including Mts Karamatsu (唐松岳) and Shirauma (白馬岳) to the north, and Mt Kashimayari (鹿島槍ヶ岳) to the south. 

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Only highly experienced climbers should attempt this hike in winter, although it's possible to go as far as the Tomi ridge if you have the right equipment and know-how.

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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.)