WEATHER

WEATHER IN THE JAPANESE ALPS

The weather varies throughout the seven destinations in the southern region of Chubusangaku National Park; there are four distinct seasons and a rainy (tsuyu) season from mid-June to late-July.

Seasons are the same as others in the northern hemisphere but due to higher elevations, the seasons vary in length and severity.

SPRING: APRIL-JUNE

Spring begins in the middle of April as the snow begins to melt and the new growth begins to surface. It’s important to know that destinations below about 1,000 - 1,500 m like Okuhida Onsen Village, Norikura Kogen, Shirahone Onsen, and Sawando Onsen are open for business year-round whereas Kamikochi and the mountain huts at higher elevations are only open from Spring to Fall.
Mountain huts throughout the park begin opening their doors around the end of April as popularity demands and the melting snows allow. The higher peaks, such as Mt. Yarigatake, Mt. Hotaka, and Mt. Jonendake, are all still completely snow-covered in spring, so crampons, ice axes, and experience are essential.

* Rainy season normally affects this area from late June to late July.

SUMMER: JULY-AUGUST

The rainy season usually starts in late June and lasts about a month. However, even during this period, there are days when the skies are clear, and some experts believe these are the best times for hiking. There are few people on the trails, and alpine flowers of all varieties begin to make their appearance, presenting a colorful contrast with the remaining snowfields. For rainy-season hikes, however, it is best to choose routes where mountain huts are already open, because the weather is fickle and some trails may not yet be fully restored after winter damage.

The peak summer climbing season begins after the rainy season ends, usually in mid- to late July. All the huts are open, the summits are snow-free, and most can be climbed without any special equipment. Naturally, this is a popular time for people to visit. The best plan is to hike earlier in the day, as afternoon squalls are a regular occurrence. From late August, Japan’s typhoon season begins, and the crowds (and numbers of alpine flowers) steadily decrease.

AUTUMN: SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER

The next high season runs from late September through mid-October, when the forests change from the lush green of summer to their autumn colors. The change begins at the higher altitudes and works its way down as the days get cooler.

Fall colors are incredible throughout the entire region and can be enjoyed while hiking, cycling, or from the comfort of a traditional Onsen Ryokan.

Some of the most famous areas, such as Karasawa, attract large numbers of visitors, but you can find spectacular views throughout the park. The dakekanba, or Erman’s beech trees, are aglow with vivid yellows, while the most brilliant reds come from the leaves of the Japanese rowan. The contrasts are even more breathtaking after light snowfalls, which begin in October and become heavier and more frequent as autumn progresses. During this period, snow makes the trails slippery, leading to an increase in accidents. Temperatures can drop drastically, so be sure to carry warm hiking wear to prevent hypothermia. This is also when the mountain huts and destinations at higher elevations begin closing for winter so be sure to check availability before traveling.

WINTER: NOVEMBER-MARCH

Snowfall is heavy in the Northern Alps, backcountry skiing and snowboarding and high elevation approaches are possible but should only be attempted by highly experienced people. All but very few of the huts are closed. However, visitors can still enjoy many other activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoe hiking in destinations at lower altitudes.

* It is common to experience snowfall through April.

WHEN TO HIKE

From November to June, the mountain peaks in Chubusangaku National Park are covered in snow—inaccessible to all but the most expert climbers. The peak hiking season runs from late July until mid-August, when temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C at lower altitudes and from 5°C to 15°C at higher altitudes. Earlier in spring and later in autumn, temperatures can be more than 20 degrees lower. Please use this information on the weather and the rainy season to plan your trip.

WHAT TO BRING

Hiking the Northern Alps is far more enjoyable when you have the right equipment. It is more comfortable, lowers risk, and allows you to adapt to changing weather conditions. For a summer hike, we suggest you wear or bring the following.

Underwear, or base layer

Light synthetic fabric or wool that will dry quickly.

Middle layer

Quick-drying shirt (long-sleeved recommended).

Warm layer

A fleece, down, or synthetic jacket and warm hat and gloves are also recommended for the colder temperatures at higher altitudes.

Hiking pants

Lightweight synthetic, unconstricting long pants (or shorts over tights).

Rainwear

Windproof and waterproof jacket with a hood and pants (breathable fabric recommended).

Boots

High-cut hiking/trekking boots with good ankle support and traction, to be worn with heavy, warm socks.

Backpack

The size of backpack will depend on the length of the hike and whether you plan on carrying a tent. Putting the contents in plastic bags and using a rain cover for the pack is also recommended.

Trekking poles

When used appropriately, these can be helpful, particularly for beginners, by distributing the impact on the legs and adding extra points of contact.

Helmet

Helmets are highly recommended on some difficult routes. Ask at the mountain hut where you are staying. Some huts offer rentals.

Map and compass

Always carry a detailed map of your route, as well as a compass. While the trails are well marked, a map and compass are useful if you get disoriented.

Cash

The mountain huts do not accept credit cards, so be sure to bring cash for payment. You will also need small change to pay to use toilets.

Other equipment

Hat, Headlamp, Towel, Extra underwear, Sunglasses, Sunblock, First-aid kit, Garbage bag(s) , Phone

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GETTING HERE

The southern region of Chubusangaku National Park is easily accessible by train and bus from major city centers like Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Fukuoka.

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ACCESS WITHIN THE AREA

There are a variety of ways to get around the area. We have made a simple list below to help you choose the best option for you.
  • PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
    Buses and taxis are the main form of transportation within the area.
  • PERSONAL CAR

    Personal cars can be driven to some areas in the region.

    * Private cars are restricted from entering Kamikochi, Mt. Yarigatake, Mt. Hotaka, and Mt. Norikura.
  • BICYCLE

    This area can be accessed by bicycle during the warm season months.

    * Mt. Yarigatake and Mt. Hotaka are not accessible by bicycle.

DESTINATIONS

The southern region of the Chubusangaku National Park is made up of the 7 alpine destinations below which can be easily accessed from Takayama and Matsumoto.
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