The ridgeline between Nekodake and Azumayama is the most beautiful stretch.

Starting from Sugadaira Farm, this loop trail takes you up to Nekodake first, followed by a ridgeline walk to Azumayama. From Azumayama, the trail circles back down to the parking lot, making a full loop. This route is relatively moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for hikers of all levels who are comfortable with a few steeper sections.

Trailhead: Sugadaira Farm

• Parking: Available at Sugadaira Farm; a fee of 200 yen per person applies.

• Facilities: Restrooms and a small shop offering local products and ice cream.

Route Description

• Distance: 10 km round trip

• Elevation Gain: 1000 meters

• Time Required: 5 hours (round trip)

1. Starting at Sugadaira Farm: Begin your hike at the Sugadaira Farm parking lot, where there’s convenient access to the trail. After a gentle ascent through a birch forest, you’ll start the main hike toward Nekodake.

2. Ascent to Nekodake: The trail gradually steepens as you approach Nekodake. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense forest and enjoy occasional clearings with views over the valley. The climb to the summit of Nekodake (2,207 meters) takes about 1.5-2 hours from the trailhead.

3. Nekodake Summit: Upon reaching the summit, take time to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including the distant Northern Alps. This peaceful summit is a great spot for a break before continuing along the ridgeline to Azumayama.

4. Ridge to Azumayama: From Nekodake, follow the trail along a gentle ridgeline that connects to Azumayama. This section of the hike is relatively easy and offers stunning views of both peaks and the surrounding landscape. The walk between Nekodake and Azumayama takes around 1 hour.

5. Azumayama Summit and Descent: After reaching the summit of Azumayama, enjoy the scenic lookout points. From here, the trail begins to descend, leading back toward Sugadaira Farm. The descent is gentle and takes around 1.5 hours, bringing you full circle back to the starting point.

Recommended Season
The trail is best enjoyed from mid-May to early November, with clear skies providing ideal conditions for views. In summer, the area is lush and green, while autumn brings beautiful foliage to the forested sections. I went in July and it was extremely hot so I would suggest avoiding the hot summer months.