Kitayokodake is located in Nagano Prefecture and is part of the Northern Yatsugatake mountain range.
The altitude is 2,480m, but you can take a ropeway up to 2,237m.
It takes just a few hours to reach the summit and back, so it's a great way to test your stamina and skills.
If you are attempting to climb a snowy mountain for the first time, I recommend this mountain.
table of contents
The charm of the mountains
top
The weather wasn't the best so many of the photos are dark, but if it had been sunny they would have been beautiful.
The wind was very strong that day and we couldn't stay on the summit for long.
scenery
▼If the weather is clear, you can enjoy the beautiful blue sky.
It seems that the temperature was high in February 2020 and there was little snow, but we were able to see frost-covered trees near the summit.
About the Mountain
About the route
Base station -- Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway --> Summit station --> Tsuboniwa --> Kita Yokodake Hut --> Nanatsuike --> Kita Yokodake summit --> Kita Yokodake Hut --> Tsuboniwa --> Shimakare Sanso --> Tsuboniwa --> Summit station -- Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway --> Base station
*We had planned to head to Shimakareyama from Kitayokodake, but due to bad weather we decided to turn back.
Equipment
Crampons
The trail is packed down and has steep sections so crampons are necessary.
I was able to climb even with light crampons.
Ice axe
It was fun to bring it along for practice, but there was no situation where I would have been in trouble without it.
Wakan
The hiking trail is well-trodden, so I don't think you'll need crampons.
If you take the first flight after the snowfall, you might be able to use it.
If you go a little off the route you will come across areas with deep snow, so it would be fun to wear them and play around.
cold weather gear
Even though it is an introductory course, it is a snowy mountain so it can be dangerous if you do not prepare warm clothing.
Some weather is very cold.
The wind was particularly strong near the summit, and my ears and nose hurt from the cold.
Physical strength and skills
As long as you have the right equipment, there are almost no situations where you need special skills.
The slope is steep and difficult, but the whole course is short so it's not a problem.
Mountain facility information
Ropeway
It takes about 8 minutes to travel from the base station (1,771m above sea level) to the summit station (2,237m).
There seemed to be more skiers and snowboarders than hikers.
In winter, it runs from 9:00 to 16:00, taking 20 minutes. Times may change depending on the day, so be sure to check when you arrive.
Round trip adult fare is 1,900 yen (200 yen discount with JAF card or Montbell card).
Round trip for children is 950 yen (up to 2 preschoolers per adult are free)
The official website of the Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway isHere
▼The reception looks like this.
Mountain hut
▼Kitayokodake Hut(The site isHere)
This is Kitayokodake Hut, with its cute proboscis.
toilet
It's located at the ropeway base station, so it's convenient because you don't have to do it on the way there.
Sanroku Station: Free to use
Summit Station: Free to use (or at least it was!)
Kitayokodake Hut: Available for 100 yen
Facilities around the trailhead
▼Souvenir shop
We stock a wide range of items, including sweets, mountain climbing equipment, alcohol, and stuffed toys.
Of course, there are mountain badges too.
▼Restaurant
There is also a restaurant on-site, so you can eat there too.
It's convenient to have a ski resort.
access
public transport
From JR East Chino Station, take a local bus (Alpico Transportation Co., Ltd.) to the ropeway base station.
car
It is about 40 minutes from Suwa IC.
If you come in winter, the altitude at the base of the ropeway is 1,771 m and the road is steep.Studless tires and chains are essential in winter.
The snow had been removed, but it's better to be prepared.
▼The parking lot is large, but it gradually gets crowded because people also come here to ski and snowboard.
The photo was taken around 8am on Saturday.
weather
What is the weather like at Kitayokodake?Herefrom!
Preparation before climbing
There are several convenience stores immediately after exiting Suwa IC.
The amount of water decreases as you get closer to the trailhead, so it's better to get in early if you need to.
Toilets and other facilities are available at the base of the mountain, so be sure to use them.
Nearby facility information
Nearby convenience stores
There are two convenience stores after exiting Suwa IC.
▼Seven fans
▼ People who prefer Family Mart
hot spring
▼Tateshina Onsen Public Bath
The water is hot, so it's perfect for coming back from a winter hike in the mountains.
Adults 500 yen, elementary school students 300 yen
▼It takes 12 minutes from the Kita Yatsugatake Ropeway parking lot to Tateshina Onsen Public Baths, so it's just the right distance for a night stop on your way back.
Climbing record
▼Click here for the climbing diary of Kitayokodake!
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