Mt Akaishi

Mt Akaishi (赤石岳) is one of the great, remote giants of the South Alps, a mountain of deep valleys, long ridges and isolation that few other hyakumeizan* can match. It sits far from easy access points, surrounded by steep terrain and long approaches that make every ascent  a true expedition. That remoteness is part of its character, and part of why it holds such special meaning for me. In 2022, standing on its summit, I completed the hyakumeizan. It therefore remains one of the most memorable moments of my time in the mountains.

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The topography of Akaishi is powerful and expansive. The mountain rises in great folds of uplifted rock, its ridges stretching out like long arms across the southern Akaishi range. The valleys below are deep and heavily forested, and the approach trails from Sawarajima or the other traverse routes are demanding, with huge elevation gain and rugged terrain. The final climb to the summit feels like entering a high, weather‑shaped world of broken rock, patches of alpine grass and wide, expansive views. I climbed this mountain in a long 3-day loop from Mt Warusawa (悪沢岳), which was my 99th hyakumeizan. Being such a high peak in such a location, Akaishi enjoys fantastic 36-degree views over the entire South Alps.

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At the summit stands the emergency hut, a small, weathered structure that seems to cling to the rocks. It’s a humble shelter, but its presence has allowed generations of hikers like me to venture so deep into the South Alps. The flora and fauna around Akaishi are rich and varied. Lower slopes are home to dense forests alive with birds and deer. Higher up, hardy alpine plants cling to the rocky ground, blooming briefly in summer and raichō rock ptarmigans inhabit the upper ridges.

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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.)