Mount Kita

Mount Kita

Mount Kita is a stratovolcano located in the southern part of the Hida Mountain Range in Japan, on the border between Nagano and Gifu prefectures. It consists of 23 peaks including Asahidake, Marishiten-dake, Fujimidake, and Byōbudake, with the highest peak, Kengamine, reaching an elevation of 3,025.6 meters. Among Japanese volcanoes, it is the third highest after Mount Fuji and Mount Ontake, and is the highest point on Japan’s Central Divide.

Named for its saddle-like appearance, Mount Kita features volcanic lakes within its summit crater. Its most recent eruption occurred over 2,000 years ago near Mount Eboshi, and signs of ongoing volcanic activity can still be observed. It is one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, a treasure trove of alpine plants, and one of the preferred habitats of the ptarmigan, a bird designated as a Natural Monument of Japan. Here, visitors can fully experience the wonders of nature.

Although Mount Kita rises above 3,000 meters in elevation, it is relatively easy to climb and has long been known as “the mountain you can climb even in high heels,” making it popular among hikers. Visitors can drive via Route 5 in Gifu Prefecture or Route 84 in Nagano Prefecture to the Tateyama Parking Lot at an altitude of 2,700 meters and then hike up. However, in recent years, to protect the natural environment and prevent traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons, visitors are required to take a local eco-bus from the base to the Tateyama Parking Lot.

Mount Norikura

Reason to Visit: One of the easiest mountains to climb among those over 3,000 meters in Japan

Continent: Asia

Country/Region: Japan

Prefecture/State: Gifu and Nagano Prefectures