Mount Norikuradake

Mount Norikuradake (乗鞍岳) is a mountain located on the border of Gifu and Nagano Prefectures in the Northern Japan Alps. With its highest peak, Kengamine, reaching 3,026 meters, it is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the area, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Mount Norikuradake is part of the Chubu Sangaku National Park and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike to the summit via several trails, each with varying levels of difficulty and scenery.

One of the most common routes starts from Tatamidaira, a plateau accessible by bus or taxi. The hike from Tatamidaira to the summit takes approximately 2.5 hours and offers hikers views of alpine flowers, waterfalls, and unique rock formations along the way.

At the summit, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and on clear days, even the Sea of Japan. A small shrine dedicated to the mountain gods is also located at the summit.

In the winter, the Norikura Highlands, located near the base of the mountain, transform into a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, with several ski resorts operating in the area.

Getting there

By Bus from Norikura Kogen (Nagano side)

From Kanko Center bus stop in Norikura Kogen:

• Take a bus to Norikura Bus Terminal near the summit
• Journey time: 50 minutes
• Cost: 1950-2050 yen one way, 4000 yen round trip
• Frequency: Every 1-2 hours (July to October)

By Bus from Takayama (Gifu side)

From Hirayu Onsen:

• Take a bus to Norikura Bus Terminal near the summit
• Journey time: 70 minutes
• Cost: 1800 yen one way, 3400 yen round trip
• Frequency: Hourly (mid-May through October)

By Taxi

• From Norikura Kogen: 45 minutes, around 9000 yen one way
• From Hirayu Onsen: 1 hour, about 8000 yen one way