Mount Tanigawa (Minakami Town, Tone District, Gunma Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Mount Tanigawa (1,977m above sea level) is located on the border between Minakami Town, Tone District, Gunma Prefecture, and Niigata Prefecture, and is one of the most iconic mountains on the Joetsu border. Characterized by steep rock faces, deep valleys, and scenery that changes with the seasons, it is known nationwide, particularly as a field for rock climbing and winter mountaineering. The impressive cliffs of Ichinokurazawa, a famous spot, are a popular spot for photography and rock wall observation. Tenjindai (Tenjindai Ski Resort) can be accessed via the Mount Tanigawa Ropeway, allowing visitors to enjoy sightseeing in conjunction with the hot springs at the foot of the mountain (Minakami Onsenkyo, Takaragawa Onsen, etc.).

Highlights

• Ichinokurazawa rock cliffs: A group of huge rock walls towering over the northern face of Mt. Tanigawa. Due to their overwhelming scale, they are also known as a famous rock climbing spot. There are observation points from the valley floor and along the road where you can see the huge rock walls.
• Tenjindai (Tenjindai Ski Resort): A highland area easily accessible by ropeway. Enjoy alpine plants in the summer, autumn leaves in the fall, and skiing and snowshoe trekking in the winter.
• Tanigawadake summit (1977m)On clear days, you can enjoy a nearly 360-degree view, stretching all the way to the Echigo Sanzan mountains, Oze, and the Kanto Plain.
• Diversity of climbing routes: There are routes ranging from the Tenjindai route for beginners to the rocky Nishikuro Ridge for advanced climbers, so you can choose a course that suits the season and your skill level.
• Minakami Hot Springs: There are many day-trip hot springs and open-air baths (such as Takaragawa Onsen) that you can enjoy after hiking, making them a great addition to a mountain trip.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: JR Minakami Station (Minakami Town). You can also use Doai Station (JR Joetsu Line), which is close to the trailhead (it has an underground platform that is famous for tourists).
• Use the ropeway: Take the Tanigawadake Ropeway to Tanigawadake Tenjindai. You can access the ropeway station by bus or taxi from Minakami Station. Operating times change depending on the season, so be sure to check the official website or route timetable in advance.
• carAccess: From Minakami IC on the Kan-etsu Expressway via national and prefectural roads. The parking lot at the trailhead is crowded during the peak season, so it is recommended to arrive early.
• Directions from Tokyo: Approximately 2-3 hours by train from Tokyo (depending on connections). Please check the JR timetable for detailed routes and times.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Walking around Tenjindaira (using the ropeway): Approximately 1-2 hours including round trip (depending on stay time).
• Day trip to the summit (using the ropeway): Ride the ropeway → Round trip from Tenjindai to the summit takes approximately 4 to 6 hours (varies depending on stamina and the course).
• Serious mountain climbing such as Nishikuro RidgeDepending on the course, the round trip may take more than 6 hours, and in some cases even longer depending on your stamina and the weather. Early departure is recommended.
• Accommodation plan including hot springs: It is common to spend two days and one night relaxing and enjoying the mountains and hot springs.

Nearby spots

• Minakami Onsenkyo (various day-trip hot springs and inns)
• Takaragawa Onsen (famous for its large open-air bath)
• Doai Station (famous in Japan for its underground platform)
• Sarugakyo and Sarugakyo Onsen (walk around the dam lake and hot spring town)
• Nearby hiking trails and valleys (such as Teruha Gorge, where seasonal scenery is beautiful)

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• The number of mountain accidents: Mt. Tanigawa is known as one of the most dangerous mountains in Japan. The danger increases especially in winter and early spring when icy surfaces, blizzards, and dense fog occur. If you are not confident in your skills and equipment, do not push yourself.
• The weather changes suddenly: The weather can change suddenly, and you may experience cold weather, strong winds, and poor visibility. Be sure to bring warm clothing, rain gear, a headlamp, and extra snacks.
• The right equipmentCrampons and ice axes are essential in winter, and a helmet is recommended for rocky areas. Even if you are going on a day trip, please bring a map, compass (or GPS), and spare batteries for your cell phone.
• Crowds and parkingParking lots and ropeways can be crowded on popular holidays and during the autumn foliage season. We recommend leaving early in the morning, using public transportation, and checking parking availability in advance.
• Nature Conservation and Manners: Always take your trash with you and be considerate of the plants and animals. Avoid taking shortcuts on the trails and entering restricted areas.
• Emergency responseIf you become lost or injured, do not hesitate to contact 119 (fire department). Inform your family and accommodations of your mountain climbing plans in advance, and if possible, submit a mountain climbing notification (to a police station or mountain climbing post).
• Check for the latest information: Be sure to check the official website or local tourist association for information on snow conditions, ropeway operation status, and winter road closures.

While Mt. Tanigawa is full of beautiful scenery and mountain climbing attractions, it is also a dangerous mountain. Please enjoy the natural scenery safely with ample preparation and a reasonable plan. For detailed routes and ropeway and bus schedules, please check the latest information on the "Mt. Tanigawa Ropeway Official Website" and the "Minakami Town Tourism Association."