Japan Alps Traverse & Mount Fuji Guided Trek

Alpine scenery meets rich cultural heritage

Trekking the iconic Japanese Haute Route

76 km (47 miles)

+5,800 m / 19,000 ft

The Japanese Alps are one of the world's hidden mountain gems, where spectacular alpine scenery meets a rich cultural heritage unlike anywhere else. Stretching across the heart of Honshu, Japan's highest mountain range is home to dramatic ridges, volcanic peaks, crystal-clear rivers and traditional mountain refuges, all set against a backdrop of centuries-old customs and warm Japanese hospitality.

Our adventure begins in Tokyo, where we'll experience the fascinating contrast between traditional and modern Japan before travelling by bullet train to Toyama and onwards into the mountains. From Murodo, we traverse the magnificent Northern Japanese Alps to Kamikōchi, crossing remote high-mountain terrain and climbing several of Japan's celebrated 100 Great Mountains, including the iconic Mount Yarigatake (3,180m), often referred to as the "Matterhorn of Japan".

Emerging from the mountains, we continue to historic Matsumoto before travelling to the beautiful Fuji Five Lakes. Here, our final walk takes us to Mount Kuro-dake, with spectacular views across the lakes towards Mount Fuji. Combining a challenging high-level traverse with Japanese culture, traditional mountain refuges, hot springs and some of the country's most iconic landscapes, this is far more than a trek, it's a journey through Japan.

From Toyama, we travel deep into the Northern Japanese Alps to Murodo, where our high-level traverse begins. Often described as Japan's equivalent of Europe's famous Haute Route, the route follows rugged mountain ridges and remote alpine trails, passing through Goshiki-ga-hara, Yakushi-dake and Kurobegoro before reaching Mount Yarigatake, known as the “Matterhorn of Japan”. Along the way, we stay in traditional mountain refuges and experience the unique atmosphere of Japan's high mountains.

Our journey continues with a long descent to Kamikōchi before travelling to historic Matsumoto, where we'll visit magnificent Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's National Treasures. From here, we travel onwards to the Fuji Five Lakes, staying in traditional Japanese accommodation and enjoying the restorative waters of an onsen.

For our final walk, we climb Mount Kuro-dake, where, weather permitting, we're rewarded with spectacular views across the lakes towards Mount Fuji. It's a fitting finale to an adventure that combines challenging mountain trekking with the landscapes, traditions and culture of Japan.

Join us on our worldwide adventure!

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