Kasagadake 2897m (笠ヶ岳) is a very streneous hike in Gifu. It's one of the most exhausting hikes I've ever done and the whole way up is a workout. The trail is also not easy with lots of unstable boulders which make the way down annoying because you have to test every rock you step on. If you want a physical challenge, this is the hike for you.
The views are amazing though and it was well worth it. Also felt my first mountain earthquake here, interesting experience.
Time: 12:45min (incl. 1:30min break)
Location: Gifu/Nagano
Distance: 20km
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation Gain: 2187m
Overnight Hike
Access
There is free parking but unless you come really early it usually fills up quickly. In that case you can park at Shinhodaka ropeway (600¥ for 6h).
For public transportation take the bus to Shinhotaka ropeway from Takayama/Matsumoto or Hirayu Onsen.
Trail description
Day 1: 6:22min, 10km, 1980m elevation gain
Start from the ropeway and cross the river. You'll walk along the river for a while and it's flat until you get to a spring. This is also the last water source.
From there it's uphill through the forest.
Once you finally get out from the forest you'll have some nice views of the Hida ridge. We started pretty late and this part was unbearable because of the heat. If you go in summer definitely start early. Also the trail has a lot of loose boulders and you always have to watch your step to not break your ankle.
The last bit is along the ridgeline to the hut. In total it took us 6:30h to the hut. All together the elevation gain is almost 2000m, so be ready for a serious workout.
Day 2: 6:15min, 10km, 274m up, 1980m down
Not very eventful, you go down the same way you came up. We were kinda slow because my knee hurt and again it was very hot in mid July. Also going down on the boulders was even more annoying than up. Finally arriving at that spring and splashing the cold water everywhere was the best part of the day.
Accomodation
Kasagatake Sanso: 14.000¥ incl 2 meals.
Tent 1500¥ per person
Reservation required. Come early if you plan on staying in a tent, much of the tent field is on a slope and it was very busy. If you come late you might be stuck with a "bad" spot for your tent.
Elevation Profile & Map
Gallery
If you have any questions leave a comment or message me directly through the chat!