Hike

Mount Izuna, Nagano

Length: 10km / 6 miles

Time: About 6 hours

Elevation gain: 876m ascent / 876m descent

Description

Mount Iizuna is a stratovolcano located in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. Standing at 1,917 meters high, it is part of the Iizuna range and is known for its hiking trails that offer stunning views of Nagano City and surrounding mountains. The mountain is also a popular skiing destination, hosting events for the 1998 Winter Olympics. With its sacred significance in mountain-based religious sects and legends of a tengu named Saburō, Mount Iizuna offers both outdoor adventure and cultural exploration for visitors seeking a unique experience in the Japanese countryside.

This is a very straight forward hike with the most difficult part being access-you will need a car to get to the start of this trailhead.

The main reason that I've tagged this hike is actually because it makes a great "beginner" level winter hike with snow shoes (when required depending on snow). I wouldn't recommend anyone go hiking in winter on a snowy mountain alone especially if it's your first time-so take a buddy who knows what they're doing!

The views at the top are awesome! You can see across Nagano city on the eastern side and over towards Togakushi on the western side. Kurohime is towards the north and you'll even spot Shiga Kogen on the north east.

There are a few different ways to access this hike and I've selected the trail that makes the most sense in terms of accessibility for location, experience level, and well marked trails. Once again, be fully prepared and go with someone experienced if you are doing this one in winter!

I've added a link in Japanese for this hike that has all the details and the webpage can be translated to English.

Tip: this one makes a great sunrise and sunset hike. Be prepared with the right equipment for the timing you choose!