top of page


Daikiretto: Minamidake to Hotaka Sanso (Nagano)
The infamous Daikiretto is a demanding 2–3 day traverse in the Northern Japan Alps, and best approached in the direction from via Minamidake/Yarigatake. Only attempt it in stable weather between July and September, once the snow has melted. This highly exposed route involves serious scrambling, chains, and narrow ridges with steep drops. It’s not for beginners—but those with experience and a head for heights will be rewarded with thrilling climbing and spectacular alpine view


Tsurugi from Banbajima (Toyama)
Tsurugidake 2999m is an expert hike in Toyama because of the elevation gain and steepness of the ridge. The hike has some technical...


Gendarme (Nagano)
The Hida ridge traverse from Nishihodaka to Okuhodaka is an expert level scramble with dramatic views and cliffs. It requires upper body strength for free climbing with your hands and chains and is very exposed. It's also often called Gendarme 3163m which is one of the peaks on the traverse. This trail is dangerous and only for confident and experienced climbers. Many people fall and die every year on this route so proceed with caution. It's called "Japans most dangerous trai
bottom of page
