Mt Iizuna

Mt Iizuna (Japanese: 飯縄山) rises just north of Nagano City, a broad stratovolcano whose slopes feel both historic and atmospheric. It’s a mountain that can be climbed year‑round, but I especially enjoy it in winter, when the forests fall silent and the upper ridges turn into a calm white world. Depending on conditions, snowshoes make the ascent easier, and the mountain’s gentle upper terrain lends itself well to winter hiking.

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The most popular route begins at Ichi‑no‑Torii, from wherea series of jizō statues lines the ascent, each one weathered by decades of wind and snow. These atmospheric stone figures appear at intervals as you work your way up the steep forested slope. The trail is straightforward but steep in places, and several sections include ropes to help you over rocky steps or icy patches. In summer it feels like a classic mountain path; in winter, those same sections demand care.

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The summit of Iizuna is surprisingly broad. It's a large, flat area that opens into excellent views of the surrounding peaks. Nagano city is to the south, Mt Togakushi (戸隠山) rises sharply to the west, and on clear days the North Alps stand in crisp silhouette. The openness of the summit makes it feel like a high plateau rather than a narrow peak, and the sense of space is one of Iizuna’s defining features.

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There is also a longer route from Togakushi Shrine, passing through deep forest. The ski resort at Togakushi has now closed permanently, but the trail remains, offering a quieter and more extended approach.

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