Hiking

Mt. Hikarujo (Hikarujoyama)

In spring, rows of cherry blossom trees bloom along the mountain trail path almost as if they were running up the 400-meter elevation high mountain slope. After travelling through the cherry blossom corridor and making it to the summit, you will be greeted with an incredible view of the Japan Alps together with cherry blossom trees. Cherry blossom season varies from mid-April to late April depending on the weather. The Mt. Hikarujo hike is also illuminated at night during cherry blossom season if you are in the mood for a nice night hike or want to see the views of the valley at night. A mountain trail has been maintained for you to easily climb and enjoy the mountain.

The top of the trail is very spacious and relatively flat with a small shrine and plenty of opportunities to look out over the whole of Azumino. At the top, there are basic bathroom facilities and a small building, but water or food preparation facilities are not available so bring your snacks, water, and/or food with you. And don’t forget to carry your trash out as well as there are no trashcans.

Mt. Nagamine (Nagamineyama)

Azumino’s number one spot for stunning sceneries. Here, you can see the beautiful view of the Japan Alps and the rural landscape of Azumino from the summit. The mountain trail is steeper than Mt. Hikarujo but the roughly one hour walk through the greenery is very refreshing. The early morning view of the Japan Alps from the summit, from fall to spring, is breathtaking! This peacefully quiet area with clear and crisp air features a gorgeous view unlike any other.