Mt Aka

Mt Aka (Japanese: 赤岳) is the great red crown of Yatsugatake, the highest point in the range that most hikers judge to be the hyakumeizan* point. It's a local mountain I’ve climbed many times and have never grown tired of. Its name, “Aka,” meaning red, reflects the colour of its volcanic rock, which glows warmly in morning and evening light and gives the peak its unmistakable character. Even from a distance, Aka looks like a powerful, rugged summit rising above the other mountains in the range.

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There are several approaches, but most hikers climb from Minoto, following the well‑known route past the mountain huts and up toward the main ridge. I often take this approach, ascending from Minamisawa (the south river) and returning in a loop via the picturesque Kitasawa north river. This route feels more intimate, moving through lush forest before breaking into the open volcanic terrain that defines the upper mountain. It’s also relatively easy to combine Mt. Aka with neighbouring peaks such as Mt Amida (阿弥陀岳), Mt Yoko (横岳) and Mt Io (硫黄岳), creating a Yatsugatake traverse that showcases the range’s variety.

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The ascent of Aka is steep and sustained, notably the relentless Monzaburo and Jizo ridges. The geology shifts as you climb up steep trails including dark volcanic soil, broken lava blocks and sharp red rock. Higher up, the flora changes to hardy alpine shrubs and grasses, and it’s not unusual to see wildlife including serows, deer and a wide variety of birds at various points.

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There are several mountain huts offering shelter and making overnight traverses easy. But even with these comforts, Mt. Aka retains a wild, elemental feel. The summit ridge is steep and windswept, with sweeping views across Yatsugatake and out toward the North and South Alps.

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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.)