Trekking Tour in Karasawa Cirque, Japan
5.0
(1)
Join Hama, your local expert guide, for a sublime family-friendly trekking journey through the breathtaking Karasawa Cirque in Japan's Hotaka Mountains. Witness vibrant fall foliage from mid-September to early October, transforming the landscape into a vibrant masterpiece.
Private
Japan Alps
3 Days
Apr - Oct
Intermediate
Intermediate
Highlights
- Trek through the unique scenery of Karasawa Cirque
- Enjoy an amazing adventure suitable for families in Japan.
- Witness breathtaking autumn foliage from mid-September
Description
Delve into the extensive natural beauty of Karasawa Cirque, famous for its stunning scenery, with towering cliffs and deep valleys set against the Hotaka Mountains. Join this unforgettable trekking experience in one of Japan’s most iconic alpine destinations.
This trip is based on a mountain hut stay, allowing you to travel light while experiencing the unique atmosphere of Japan’s alpine huts. Staying in huts also ensures a more comfortable and efficient journey, especially during the busy hiking season.
The trekking season runs from late April to mid-October. Please note that winter equipment is required from late April to late May due to remaining snow conditions. Specific requirements will be provided separately.
The best time to witness the autumn foliage at Karasawa Cirque is from mid-September to early October. This glacially-formed cirque, nestled in the Hotaka Mountains, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and vibrant fall colors.
This experience focuses on enjoying the scenery, atmosphere, and unique alpine environment of Karasawa.
Ready to start your Karasawa Cirque adventure? Contact me to plan your journey!
Price includes
- Guiding fee
- Transport during the trip
Price details
- Price Included
- Private UIMLA-certified hiking guide
- Registered nurse support
- Pre-hike consultation (email or video call)
- Transportation between Matsumoto and Kamikochi
- Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Meals and drinks outside of mountain huts
- Accommodation costs (clients cover the guide’s accommodation)
- Personal hiking gear (rental available)
Meeting point
Itinerary
Day 0: Arrival & Preparation Day
12:00–13:00 – Arrival in Matsumoto Station (from Nagoya or Tokyo) 13:00–15:00 – In-person briefing with your guide - Final gear check - Gear procurement if needed - Weather and route update - Trip overview and safety briefing
15:00–16:00 – Hotel check-in (Most hotels allow check-in after 15:00.)
Staying in Matsumoto the night before the trek allows for light acclimatization and a smooth start. Please arrange your own accommodation.
Day 1: Kamikochi to Yokoo
- 10:00 – Meet at your hotel in Matsumoto (exact time confirmed the day before) - 12:00 – Arrive at Kamikochi Bus Terminal (Altitude: 1,504 m) - Scenic hike along the Azusa River toward Yokoo - 15:30 – Check in at Yokoo Sanso Mountain Hut (Altitude: 1,619 m) - Dinner and breakfast included
Accommodation – Yokoo Sanso - JPY 15,000 per person (includes dinner and breakfast; reserved and prepaid by the guide)
Day 2: Yokoo - Karasawa
Activity: Approximately 8 hours (excluding breaks) Distance: 8.9 km Elevation Gain: 1,364 m
- 05:30 – Breakfast at the hut - 06:00 – Depart Yokoo Sanso toward Karasawa - 09:00 – Arrive at Karasawa Hutte (Altitude: 2,309 m) - Enjoy the scenery of the Karasawa Cirque - Optional short hike toward the Hotaka Ridge (depending on conditions)
Accommodation – Karasawa Hutte - JPY 16,000 per person (includes dinner and breakfast; reserved and prepaid by the guide)
Day 3: Return to Kamikochi
- 05:00 – Wake up, breakfast, and prepare for descent - 06:00 – Begin descent from Karasawa to Kamikochi - 12:00 – Arrive at Kamikochi Bus Terminal
Complimentary transportation to Matsumoto Station
An optional onsen stop on the way back
Details
Accommodation
We'll spend the night either in a tent or a mountain hut
Disclaimer
- Clients must be prepared to hike up to 6 hours a day.
- Participants should be under 70 years old.
- Individuals with no history of being overweight or significant medical conditions are suitable for this trip.
- Must be willing to follow the guide's decisions during wilderness activities.
- The guide may decide to turn back or use an evacuation route if necessary due to adverse weather conditions or client performance.
- Clients are responsible for accommodation costs if a stay at a mountain hut is needed instead of camping.
- In unforeseen circumstances requiring an extended stay in the mountains, clients will be responsible for any additional costs at the mountain hut.
More info
Additional Costs (Not Included in Guide Fee) - Mountain hut accommodation: approximately JPY 31,000–35,000 per person (2 nights total) (Clients are responsible for covering the guide’s accommodation during the trip) - Lunches and trail snacks during hiking days - Public toilets along the trail: JPY 100–200 per use - Personal expenses
Note: Most mountain huts operate on a cash-only basis. Please carry sufficient Japanese yen during the trek.
Equipment you will need to bring
Poles, Sunglasses, Backpack, Water bottle, JPY Cash, Essential gears (Guide will inform clients a rental gear provider)
About the guide
Hama & Guides’ Team
4.5
(33)
Guide Agency
Languages
English | Japanese
Certificates
JMGA | UIMLA
What people are saying about this trip
Eugene
good arrangements
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