Hike: Tsubame onsen to Myoko summit and return

Length: 10.5km / 6.5 miles

Time: up to 9 hours total (estimate)

Elevation gains: start at 940m to 2,454m (1514m ascent / 1514m descent)

My favorite features: outdoor hot spring, hot spring waterfall, volcano steam vent view, panoramic views

Description

Mount Myōkō is iconic and maybe I'm biased because I live here...but this is one of the most beautiful mountains in Japan. It's an active stratovolcano located in Honshu, Japan. It's part of Jōshin'etsu-kōgen National Park and stands at 2,454 meters high. The mountain has a rich geological history, with eruptions dating back 300,000 years.

There are multiple trails to reach the peak and the one I would recommend starts at Tsubame Onsen and finishing at Sasagamine. That way you can enjoy the outdoor onsen at Tsubame when you return from the return trail.

I've hiked this with a few people and the time will vary for those who have trouble with steep climbs and descents. It takes me roughly 4-5 hours at a good pace but for others it could take up to 9 hours.

I've added a good website with detailed info and a map to get you started.

Tip: try the fresh spring water along the way!