Mt Aizukoma

Mt Aizukoma or Aizukomagatake (Japanese: 会津駒ケ岳) is a remote hyakumeizan* peak in Hinoemata village in the northern corner of Oze. This is an area of massive snowfall and the hiking season begins relatively late. Access is difficult, either from Nikko to the east, or using the long treacherous road across the mountains from Niigata. Many hikers combine Aizukoma with a visit to Mt Hiuchi (燧ケ岳) or other peaks in the area. Aizukoma is a mountain whose beauty lies not in a dramatic summit, but in the long, varied journey that leads you there.

 

The climb from the village below is tough from the start, rising steeply through forest and rocky steps that demand steady effort. But once you break out onto the grassy ridgeline, the character of Aizukoma changes completely. The ridge is broad and gentle, covered in alpine grasses that ripple in the wind, and dotted with boardwalks that guide hikers across fragile high‑altitude wetlands. Small alpine pools lie scattered across the plateau, reflecting sky and cloud. This area is the highlight of the hike and offers panoramic views back towards Hiuchi, Oze marsh and surrounding mountains. 

 

The summit itself is modest, a short, steep rise at the end of the ridge, but it’s the area just below the summit, around the hut, that leaves the strongest impression. In summer, wildflowers brighten the wetlands, and the boardwalks make it easy to wander and take in the scenery. I've climbed Mt Aizukoma a couple of times and have found it to be a mountain where the journey outshines the destination. 

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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.)