# Yarigatake

> The 3,180-meter spear-shaped peak of the Northern Alps, fifth-highest in Japan, usually climbed over two days from Kamikochi. The final 30 minutes from Yarigatake Sanso go up rock, chains and iron ladders, and on peak holidays the queue for them can last hours.

- Prefecture: Nagano
- Type: Mountain
- Address: Matsumoto, Nagano, Japan
- Official site: https://www.yarigatake.co.jp/

The last 30 minutes are the part everyone remembers. From Yarigatake Sanso the route up the 3,180-meter spire crosses rock fitted with chains, and near the top two long iron ladders stand side by side. On a normal day it takes about 30 minutes each way; during the Obon holidays the queue can push that past two hours, so the hut suggests going up early or in the late morning, after the tour groups. Getting there is slower. Kamikochi is closed to private cars all year, so you park at Sawando or Hirayu and ride in by bus, and the bus from Shin-Shimashima now runs on reserved departures. The walk up the Azusa River past Myojin and Tokusawa to Yokoo is about three hours on the flat, and the climb up the Yarisawa valley comes after that. The hut operator recommends a night at Yarisawa Lodge and the summit the next day, adding a night at Yarigatake Sanso if you are not an experienced, strong walker. Beds must be booked, from 9:00 one month ahead; a night with two meals is 16,000 yen. The monk Banryu made the first recorded ascent in 1828. Helmets can be rented at the hut for 500 yen.

## FAQ

### Can beginners climb Yarigatake?

The hut operator says beginners can do it in the snow-free season with good weather, proper gear and a relaxed schedule, but not everyone can. Plan a night at Yarisawa Lodge and another at Yarigatake Sanso, and bring or rent a helmet for the summit spire.

### Do I need to book Yarigatake Sanso?

Yes, every hut in the group takes reservations from one person up. Booking opens at 9:00 one month before the date, online or by phone. A night with two meals costs 16,000 yen and a room-only night 11,200 yen; arrive by 15:00.

### How long does the summit spire take from the hut?

Usually about 30 minutes each way. On peak holiday days such as Obon it can take more than two hours one way because of queues at the chains and ladders, so arrive at the hut early and go up before the groups.

### When is the route free of snow?

It depends on the year. The huts open from late April, but in heavy-snow years crampons and an ice axe can still be needed into July on the Yarisawa route. Check current conditions on the hut's website or by phone before you go.

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Source: Yarigatake — Japan Voyage