Experience the awe-inspiring power of active volcanoes and their other side: hot springs. Japan is home to 111 active volcanoes, meaning that 7% of the world’s volcanoes are concentrated in just 0.25% of the world’s land area. While volcanoes can sometimes cause disasters, they also provide us with many pleasures. Hot springs! Japan has countless natural hot springs. The Japanese have enjoyed hot springs since ancient times. It can be said that hot springs have had a significant influence on Japanese culture, the national character, and the country’s high average life expectancy.
On this hike, we’ll make a day trip to climb Mt. Yakedake, which played a part in the volcanic activity that created Kamikochi.
We’ll start by walking through the forest, but the scenery will gradually give way to a distinctly volcanic landscape.
As you approach the summit, you’ll walk among volcanic rocks and experience the smell of volcanic gases and the heat of geothermal activity. Once you’ve climbed the final steep slope, you’ll be rewarded with a view of the majestic mountains of the Northern Alps and a panoramic vista of Kamikochi below, nestled among the mountain ridges.
After retracing your steps back to the trailhead, stop at a ryokan at the foot of Mt. Yakedake to soak in a hot spring powered by the mountain’s energy before heading home.
*For this hike, please check the “Eruption Alert Level” issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency and the current volcanic activity status of Mt. Yakedake. Be prepared for a potential eruption by bringing a helmet.
On this hike, we’ll make a day trip to climb Mt. Yakedake, which played a part in the volcanic activity that created Kamikochi.
We’ll start by walking through the forest, but the scenery will gradually give way to a distinctly volcanic landscape.
As you approach the summit, you’ll walk among volcanic rocks and experience the smell of volcanic gases and the heat of geothermal activity. Once you’ve climbed the final steep slope, you’ll be rewarded with a view of the majestic mountains of the Northern Alps and a panoramic vista of Kamikochi below, nestled among the mountain ridges.
After retracing your steps back to the trailhead, stop at a ryokan at the foot of Mt. Yakedake to soak in a hot spring powered by the mountain’s energy before heading home.
*For this hike, please check the “Eruption Alert Level” issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency and the current volcanic activity status of Mt. Yakedake. Be prepared for a potential eruption by bringing a helmet.
