Mt Cho

Mt. Chō or Chogatake (Japanese: 蝶ヶ岳), meaning the butterfly mountain, is a rewarding climbs in the North Alps. It's a peak that combines steep forest trails, dramatic alpine scenery and a stunning ridge line. The ascent from the Mitsumata trailhead begins immediately, rising sharply through dense forest. Early on you pass the famous “Godzilla tree,” a massive, twisted trunk that looks uncannily like a dinosaur's head emerging from the earth. It’s a landmark that signals the start of the mountain’s long, relentless climb.

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Halfway up, the trail briefly plateaus, giving hikers a moment of relief before resuming its upward push. The elevation gain is significant, and the forest thins gradually until you finally break onto the ridge line. From there, the world opens. The views toward Mt Yari (槍ヶ岳) and the Hotaka range (穂高連峰) are outstanding.

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Many hikers choose to camp or stay at the mountain hut on the ridge, turning the climb into a relaxed overnight trip. Others tackle it as a long day hike, pushing through the elevation gain in one go, or continue on to neighbouring Mt Jonen (常念岳). I love to continue north along the ridge to a rocky outcrop called Chō‑Yari, a quiet viewpoint of the surrounding Alps. I often see raichō rock ptarmigans along the way.

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Mt. Chō is a tough climb. It's steep and sustained but the views from around the broad summit make every step worthwhile. It’s a mountain that rewards effort with beauty, and one that keeps drawing me back.

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