Japan: Hiking Daikokudake from Norikura Tatamidaira

I didn't have knowledge about what winter looks like until I became more interested in watching several videos about it.  Like the danger and difficulty someone might encounter when going to the top of the mountain.  Like how is the situation of the huts during the heavy snow.  Like how the mountain hotels have limited service, how they are prepared to stay safe before the winter, and how the buildings are recovered in the middle of deep snow. 

It's a wonderful discovery to know about this place.  The very limited access of being open to the public for only almost 5 months a year (mid-May to late-October) - it's both challenging and also fulfilling to have visited the place. And being the highest bus terminal in Japan, located at 2,702 meters - heading to the Norikura Tatamidaira offers a stunning view.

We started our journey from Takayama, queuing early for the 7:00 am schedule.  Rode a 45-minute bus to Honoki Daira bus terminal.  

Upon arrival in Honoki Daira, we were guided to just wait for the bus heading to Norikura Tatamidaira.  We noticed there is a ticket counter, there is an automatic ticket dispenser, coin locker, waiting benches, and vending machine outside. 

It was a rainy morning bus ride we had and while waiting for the next bus we were already doubtful and worried if we should pursue heading to the mountain.  Although the bus service is still on-going, we are having thoughts like what is it like at the top.  

It is then another 45 minute bus ride from Honoki Daira.  The rain continued to fall, low visibility on the road, it was too cloudy outside.  It was a long winding trip, watching the wet autumn trees along.  

And before we reach the top, the blue sky is slightly showing the thick clouds.  The bus kept moving, and we were suddenly surprised by the view in front of us.  It's the sea of clouds.  We can see mountain peaks above the clouds.  The Norikura Skyline is stunning with tall autumn trees.

Note: Gifu prefecture has already posted warnings about bear sightings in the mountains.  So please be careful, watch the news, and read articles about it. 

Please note that this area has a limited bus service.  Upon arrival at Honoki Daira, we immediately checked the schedule of the return trip.

Before we started our hike, we left our luggage at the coin locker.  Ordered for konnyaku (konjac jelly).

Among the multiple peaks from Norikura Tatamidaira, we choose Mt. Daikoku (2,772 meters).  It has good rocky steps, making it easy for us to hike.

At the mountain top, there are no more tall autumn trees.  There's different vegetation at high altitudes, due to heavy snow and strong winds that's why tall trees are nowhere to be found.  Most that is available at the top is Siberian dwarf pine which are low-growing, creeping shrubs.

There are a lot of barren sections, rocky flat walkways with visibility of other peaks in the northern alps.  Wear suitable shoes that are good for sand and rocky roads.

Important spots at the top are the rest stop, the direction of peaks, and the mountain sign (Mt. Daikokudake).It is good to bring a wind-breaker.

From some maps available online and on the site, please be reminded:

• Carry a bell to let bears know where you are. Refer to this instagram post
• If you are worried, move around in groups
• Do not leave any garbage behind
• Stay on the ascent routes and wooden walkways.
• Do not step on or remove any alpine plants. 
• Do not bring pets into the park.

Thankful to the other hikers we met along the way.  Some were even explaining to us which among them are the peaks.  Luckily we are already familiar with Kamikochi and Shinhotaka.  Also, thankful to the two ladies who took or photos at the top with a very nice backdrop of the alps.

How to get there

Norikura Tatamidaira

Nyukawacho Iwaidani, Takayama, Gifu 506-2254, Japan

 

Daikokudake (mountain peak) 

Azumi, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-1515, Japan