Mt Neko

Mt Neko (Japanese: 根子岳) is one of the quiet treasures of Sugadaira in Ueda. It’s a mountain that can be climbed in every season and somehow feels different each time you visit. In summer, most hikers begin from the gentle pastures of the Davos farm, following forest paths before rising onto the steep upper slopes with their spectacular array of Alpine flowers. Many people combine the climb with nearby Mt Azumaya, traversing the rocky ridge between the two mountains to create a satisfying loop that showcases the volcanic highlands of eastern Nagano. The views are wide and varied with the North Alps rising sharply to the west, the Asama range dominating the southern skyline and Azumaya’s broad ridges close at hand.

 

Winter transforms Mt Neko completely. Sugadaira is one of the coldest places in Nagano, and the intense winds sculpt enormous twisted snow monsters across the upper slopes. In this season, the climb usually begins from Sugadaira Kogen Davos Snow Park, where both backcountry skiers and snowshoers make their way up the ridge. Despite the cold, it’s one of my favourite winter outings, a place where the landscape feels both harsh and beautiful.

 

Mt Neko’s variety is what makes it so appealing. In spring, the lingering snow contrasts with new greenery; in summer, flowers brighten the meadows; in autumn, the air turns crisp and clear. For ambitious hikers, the mountain can even be linked to a long traverse toward the famous Yonago Falls on the Gunma side. This is a demanding but rewarding extension that reveals the full breadth of the region’s terrain.

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