Traverse Hike Based at Hirayu: Via Nakao Pass and Mt.Yake to Kamikochi, with Bus Return - Shinpi Trail section3

This course starts/finishes at a historical onsen spot - Hirayu Onsen in Okuhida Onsengo, and covers the highlights of Shinpi Trail - Nakao Kogen and Mt.Yake, the peak of an active volcano. From Hirayu Bus Terminal to Nakao Onsen, the trailhead for the Okuhida side of Mt.Yake, you take a bus. As you cross Nakao Pass and approach the peak of Mt.Yake, you can see the rugged rock surfaces characteristic of volcanoes. The view of the Hotaka mountain range from the peak of Mt.Yake is breathtaking. After the peak, you descend to Kamikochi, one of Japan's most famous mountain scenic spots. From Kamikochi you return to Hirayu by bus. Before or after hiking, we recommend a visit to Hirayu Onsen or Nakao Onsen to feel the blessings of the volcano and heal your body and soul.

• 01

  Since the course starts and ends at Hirayu Bus Terminal, it is easily accessible from both the Matsumoto and Takayama sides.

• 02

  This is an ultimate one-day course that takes in two hot spring resorts, Hirayu Onsen and Nakao Onsen, and Mt.Yake, which is popular with hikers at an elevation of nearly 2500m, and Kamikochi, one of Japan's most famous mountain scenic spots.

• 03

  The course includes the peak of Mt,Yake, an active volcano that is still active today. It is worth seeing for the rugged rock surfaces characteristic of volcanoes and the view of the Hotaka mountain range that looms before you.

• 04

  The course descends to Kamikochi, the birthplace of the modern hiking culture in Japan. The clear waters of Azusa River can be seen from Kappa Bridge, with the overwhelmingly scenic Hotaka mountain range in the background.

• 05

  Before and after the hike, relax your body and mind at Hirayu Onsen or Nakao Onsen in the historic Okuhida Onsengo, indulging in the blessings of the volcano.