TOC
Mount Houou (Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Houou Sanzan mountain range is located in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, and primarily refers to the three peaks of Mt. Kannon, Mt. Yakushi, and Mt. Jizo. Sometimes referred to as the Hakuho Sanzan, it's a beautiful mountain range characterized by granite ridges, distinctive rocky peaks (particularly the "obelisk" of Mt. Jizo), and alpine plants. Its appeal lies in its magnificent views of Mt. Fuji, the Southern Alps, and the Yatsugatake Mountains in the distance, and visitors can enjoy different scenery each season (flowers in summer, autumn leaves, lingering snow and frost-covered trees in early spring, and the harsh winter). Historically, the mountain range has also been known as an object of worship, and as it was a route along the Shugendo sect, it retains an atmosphere of mountain worship.
Highlights
- Jizo-dake Obelisk: A granite spire that symbolizes Mount Houou. It is impressive when viewed up close and is a popular photo spot. There are some exposed areas around the area, so be careful of the weather and your equipment.
- Great view of Mt. Kannon: From the highest peak (approximately 2,840m), you can see Mt. Fuji, the Southern Alps, and Mt. Yatsugatake. The sea of clouds in the early morning and the sunrise and sunset are beautiful.
- Around Mount Yakushi：This is a key point on the ridgeline, with mountain huts and rest areas. It is also a good place to observe alpine plants.
- Flower fields and high moors: There are many places where you can see alpine plants such as the Japanese lily in summer.
- Sunrise, sea of clouds, starry skyThe high altitude and open ridgeline make it ideal for enjoying the dawn and the starry sky while staying in a tent or mountain hut.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest JR station: The mountain range can be accessed from Nirasaki Station, Kobuchizawa Station, Kofu Station, etc. The station you use will vary depending on the trailhead.
- Main trailheads:
- Yashajin Pass trailhead: One of the common approaches. Accessible by public transport or car.
- Aoki Kosen: A trailhead with a hot spring inn and a convenient base. The route to the ridgeline from here is often used.
- public transportation: During the climbing season, buses to the trailhead may operate from Nirasaki Station or Kofu Station, so be sure to check the timetable in advance. There may also be extra buses in the summer.
- carAccess: From the Nirasaki IC or Nagasaka IC on the Chuo Expressway. There is a parking lot near the trailhead, but it may be full during peak seasons, so consider leaving early or using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: If you are a fit runner, it is not impossible to complete the entire route in a day, but it often takes around 10 to 12 hours round trip, so you will need to be in good physical condition and in good weather.
- 2 days, 1 night: A typical plan. The standard course is to climb on the first day, stay at the ridge and mountain hut, and then traverse and descend the next day.
- Estimated travel time:
- Yashajin Pass trailhead → Ridge (ascent): Approx. 2-3 hours
- Ridgeline traverse (section from Mt. Kannon to Mt. Yakushi to Mt. Jizo): Total time is approximately 4 to 6 hours (may vary depending on stops and breaks)
Nearby spots
- Kiyosato Plateau (Seisen Ryokan, Moegi no Mura, etc.) - Full of tourist facilities and cafes.
- Suntory Hakushu Distillery (tour) - A popular tourist spot in Hokuto City.
- Ojirogawa Valley - A beautiful scenic spot with a mountain stream and waterfall (perfect for refreshing before or after hiking).
- Yatsugatake area (Kobuchizawa, Fujimi Kogen, etc.) - Driving and visiting hot springs are also recommended.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- weather: The weather is subject to rapid change, including sudden gusts of wind, thick fog, and sudden snowfall. Be sure to check the weather forecast and cancel or change your plans if the weather is bad.
- Snow and crampons: From early spring to early summer and late autumn to winter, there may be snow or ice remaining, so you may need light crampons and an ice axe. Please prepare your equipment according to the season.
- Fitness and time management: Plan ahead and allow for sundown and worsening weather. The ridgeline is windy and feels cold.
- Rocky area around the obelisk：There are some exposed rocky areas and sections with chains. They are slippery, so do not push yourself in bad weather or if you are inexperienced.
- Mountain huts and accommodation: During peak summer months, reservations for mountain huts may be required. Please check in advance as there are regulations and etiquette regarding camping in tents.
- Crowds and Manners: The number of climbers increases on weekends and during the summer holidays. Please observe proper etiquette on the mountain trails (sharing with others, taking your trash with you, and using the toilets).
- Water and other items: There are limited water sources on the ridgeline. Please bring plenty of drinking water, snacks, a map and compass, rain gear, and warm clothing.
- Communications and Rescue: There are many areas where there is no mobile phone signal. In an emergency, call 119 to request help, but we also recommend submitting a hiking plan and sharing route information with your family and accommodation.
- nature conservationTo protect alpine plants and animals, please be mindful to stay on the hiking trails, not collect plants, and not make bonfires.
The Houou Sanzan mountains are famous peaks with varied ridgelines and spectacular views, but the conditions of the mountains change with the seasons and the day. Please be sure to prepare in advance, gather information, and act with safety as your top priority, and plan your trip with ample time to enjoy it.
