Starting from the Takamine Kogen Visitor Center, this trail is relatively short but offers stunning alpine scenery and some of the best views of Mt. Asama, Japan’s most active mainland volcano. I’ve hiked it in both summer and winter — and honestly, it’s equally rewarding in either season.

The twin peaks of Kurofuyama and Toumi no Kashira, both standing over 2,000 meters, are accessible year-round. From December to March, the trail is covered in snow, creating a totally different landscape — perfect for winter hiking if you’ve got the right gear.

Trailhead: Takamine Kogen Visitor Center

By Car:
Drive to the Takamine Kogen Visitor Center. There is free parking available near the trailhead. Roads are usually clear outside of the snow season, but snow tires or chains are required in winter.

By Public Transport:
Take the Shinkansen or Shinano Line to Ueda Station, then a bus or taxi to Takamine Kogen. Note that bus service may be limited in winter, so checking ahead is essential.

Hike Details:

• Distance: Approx. 5 km (loop)

• Duration: 4 hours

• Incline: About 450 meters

General Information:

The hike begins from Takamine Kogen Visitor Center, quickly ascending through alpine fields before reaching Toumi no Kashira in about 90 minutes.

In the snow season (December to March), the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland. With snowshoes or microspikes, this hike becomes an accessible and quiet snow hike with unforgettable views.

For those looking to extend the adventure, there’s a longer loop trail that offers more varied terrain and different angles of Mt. Asama, taking around 7 to 8 hours to complete.

If you are looking for a guided experience, you can DM my friend, Isagi Funayama: (https://www.instagram.com/isagi.f.de_le_rue/?hl=en)