2026.2.28 Ebigasayama-Nishidake traverse

I hiked across Mt. Amigasa and Mt. Nishidake in Nagano Prefecture.
Located at the southern end of the Yatsugatake Mountains, the view was excellent once you emerged from the forest.
Including Mount Nishidake in the course makes it a loop, which is very interesting.

Mountain highlights

Its main attraction is the excellent view that offers a panoramic vista of the Yatsugatake Mountains and the Southern Alps.
Furthermore, there's the fascinating aspect of the scenery changing from wooded areas to rocky outcrops.

Summit

The summit of Amigasa-yama.
The space was large, but it was very windy that day.
The view is excellent, with the Yatsugatake Mountains towering before you.

The Southern Alps are visible, though hidden by clouds.

The summit of Nishidake.
It's a bit smaller than Amigasa-yama, but there's still a decent amount of space.

Although partially obscured by trees, Nishidake gives the impression of being closer to the Yatsugatake Mountains.

landscape

The initial part of the game takes place in a wooded area. Huge, volcanic-looking rocks are scattered around.
We'll proceed as if we were hiking.

As you proceed, snow and ice appear.

After passing through the forest, you come to a massive rocky area.

The view from the rocky outcrop is magnificent.

You can see the Southern Alps.

On the way to Nishidake, you can see the Yatsugatake Mountains directly in front of you.
When viewed up close, the mountain's rugged appearance is truly striking.

The youth lodge was closed for the winter holidays.

Points to note

- The ground is frozen, so equipment like chain spikes or better is essential.

During this period, the terrain alternated between icy patches and rocky areas, requiring frequent putting on and taking off of chain spikes or similar footwear.

- There was deep snow near the summit, so it would have been good to bring gaiters.