Mt Tsubakuro

Mt Tsubakuro (Japanese: 燕岳) is one of the great classics of the North Alps. It’s a mountain of white granite, sweeping ridgelines and magnificent views across the North Alps. I’ve visited it in every season, and each time it feels like a different mountain. Over New Year, the expansive Enzansō hut opens briefly for winter climbers who can enjoy the snowy landscape and experience the extreme cold of the ridge line, and don't mind the long walk along the closed-to-traffic forest road. In summer, the granite shines under the sun, and the ridgeline becomes one of the most beautiful walks in Japan.

 

The trail begins at Nakabusa Onsen, at the end of a long forest road where parking is limited and I strongly recommend avoiding at peak weekends and holidays. The climb is steep from the start, rising through forest before emerging onto the famous Gassen ridge. Here, a small hut sells watermelon slices in summer, a tradition that has become part of the mountain’s identity. Once you reach Enzansō, you can rest, enjoy the views, or continue past the iconic Dolphin Rock towards the summit.

 

The final approach to Mt. Tsubakuro’s peak is a narrow, sculpted ridge of pale white sandy granite, offering 360‑degree views over the North Alps. Mt Yari stands out sharply to the south, its spear-like summit unmistakable. Raicho rock ptarmigans and Alpine flowers can often be seen near the trail, and the valleys below seem impossibly deep.

 

Tsubakuro is a long, steep climb but is worth the effort. It's also possible to combine with a longer hike to Mt Otensho and other peaks to the south. Whether in deep winter silence or under summer skies, it remains one of the most beautiful and uplifting mountains in the North Alps.

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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.)