Last updated: Feb 19, 2025
Mt. Kirigamine is the only Hyakumeizan that can be combined with a day on the slopes, as the top of the mountain is a 30 second walk from the top of the ski lifts!
Winter hike: From the parking lot, head up to the ski resort. Follow the lift going up the left side of the mountain. Unfortunately, you’ll have to climb on the groomed runs, as the ski patrol don’t like you climbing off piste. Once you get to the top of this lift, cut over to the right and follow the other lift going higher up the mountain. Watch out for skiers and boarders as you cut across and also when you’re climbing through the resort. The top is at the top of this next lift. If the weather is good it’ll be impossible to miss, but because this mountains is called “fog peak” be prepared to ask someone if you can’t figure out where to go. Just behind the top of the highest lift is a meteorological observatory and a signpost marking the top of Kurumayama (車山). Isn’t is fitting that the top of “car mountain” should be accessible by car in the summer! If the weather is good, you’ll have outstanding views of Mt. Fuji, Mt. Tateshina, Yatsu-ga-dake, the Minami Alps, and Utsukushigahara. If the weather is foggy like it was when I climbed, then you’ll enjoy getting off this mountain as quickly as possible! I’ve heard there are some nice wildflowers and side trails to take a date on in the summer, but it’s also when this mountain is the most crowded. Take my advice and enjoy this peak in the winter, when few venture past the top of the lifts.
Summer hike: In the summer, take a bus to Kuramayama bus stop and embark on a lovely 2 hour, 4km loop through the marshlands, enjoying the plethora of alpine flowers in bloom. Take a bus from Chino station (茅野駅) and get off at Kurumayama kata (車山肩）bus stop. The summer 2025 schedule hasn’t been released yet, but check with the Alpico Group website here if planning a hike this year.
When to go: This hike can be done year round, but bring crampons during the winter so you can easily navigate through the ski resort. In the summer be aware of afternoon thunderstorms.
Access: During the winter, there are direct night buses from Tokyo to Kuramayam-kougen ski resort (車山スキー場). You can also catch a bus from Chino station (茅野駅). Click here for the bus schedule.
Live web cam: Click here
Map: Click here
Level of difficulty: 1 out of 5 (elevation change 365m) This hike is a 0 out of 5 if you take the ski lift.
Hiking in Japan 