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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Mount Tsubakuro is one of the most iconic mountains in the Northern Alps, located in Azumino City (formerly Hotaka Town), Nagano Prefecture. It stands 2,763 meters above sea level. Its white granite ridges and breathtaking views to the east make it particularly popular for the silhouettes of Mount Yari and the Hotaka mountain range, as well as sunrises, sunsets, and seas of clouds, as seen from the vicinity of Enzanso. The mountain is beloved by mountain photographers and climbers from beginners to veterans, and its spring-to-autumn alpine flora (dicentra, kagami, anemone, etc.) is a must-see. The mountain hut culture and warm hospitality of Enzanso are also part of Mount Tsubakuro's charm.
Highlights
- Great observation spots around Tsubame Sanso: Enjoy a panoramic view of Mount Yari, the Hotaka mountain range, and the Northern Alps.
- The rocky ridge at the summit and the photogenic white ridgeline: The morning and evening light, combined with the whiteness of the granite, is beautiful.
- Alpine plants: In summer, colorful alpine plants, including dicentra, bloom (the peak is usually from mid-July to early August).
- Tsubame Sanso: A mountain hut with a good reputation for both its facilities and food. Staying overnight at the hut is popular to avoid the evening views and early morning crowds.
- Sea of clouds, starry sky, and sunrise: If the weather is good, you can enjoy a sea of clouds below, a starry sky at night, and a sunrise with the silhouette of Mt. Yari in the early morning.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Oito Line Hotaka Station or Matsumoto Station (both in Nagano Prefecture). It takes about 30 minutes by train from Matsumoto to Hotaka.
- Trailhead: Nakabusa Onsen is the most common trailhead. There are buses to Nakabusa Onsen (please check the schedule as there are many seasonal buses).
- Public transportation: From Matsumoto or Hotaka Station, take a bus operated by the Alpico Group or other operators bound for Nakabusa Onsen (seasonal operation). There may be additional buses during the climbing season. Please check the timetable in advance.
- By car: There are parking lots around Nakabusa Onsen (limited spaces available and fees may apply). As the number of parking spaces is limited, the lot tends to fill up on weekends and holidays, so we recommend using public transportation or leaving early.
- Note: Bus operating days and fares, parking information, and the operation of trailhead toilets and hot springs change depending on the season, so please check the official website for the latest information before setting off.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Elevation difference: Approximately 1,200m (varies slightly depending on the trailhead).
- Typical travel time (starting from Nakabusa Onsen):
- Nakabusa Onsen → Tsubamesanso: Approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours
- Tsubamesanso Lodge → Tsubamedake Summit: Approximately 40-60 minutes
- Round trip in one day (for those with good walking ability): Approximately 7 to 10 hours (including breaks)
- Guide to a 2-day, 1-night mountain hut plan: Day 1: Nakabusa Onsen → Tsubame Sanso (stay overnight at the hut), Day 2: Early morning round trip to the summit → descent (a relaxed itinerary is recommended)
- If you want to take your time and enjoy photography and flower viewing, we recommend a two-day, one-night stay.
Nearby spots
- Nakabusa Onsen: A hot spring located at the trailhead. There are also facilities offering day-trip bathing, so you can soothe your fatigue after descending the mountain.
- Daio Wasabi Farm (Azumino): A representative tourist spot in Azumino, lined with wasabi fields and souvenir shops (approximately an hour by car).
- Kamikochi: A famous spot in the Northern Alps. Although it is far from Mount Tsurugidake, it is a popular tourist base on the Nagano side (access times vary depending on the season and traffic conditions).
- Towards Mount Jonen and Mount Chogatake: It is possible to combine this with Mount Tsurugidake and hike the surrounding mountains. Make sure you have enough time and energy for the traverse route.
- Hotaka Onsenkyo and Matsumoto Castle (Matsumoto City): A tourist hub with hot springs and historical tourist spots.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Mountain hut reservations: During the summer mountain season (especially July and August, and during long weekends), accommodation at Tsubame Sanso fills up early. Be sure to make a reservation in advance. The number of tent sites is limited, so be sure to check the usage rules and fees.
- Crowds: The hiking trails and the area around Tsubame Sanso Lodge are crowded on weekends and holidays. The parking lot at the trailhead also fills up quickly, so we recommend using public transportation or leaving early in the morning.
- Bad weather and climate change: The weather in the Northern Alps is prone to sudden changes, with strong winds, sudden thunderstorms, fog, and snowfall occurring. Be sure to check the weather forecast and plan your itinerary with plenty of time to spare.
- Equipment: Warm clothing (it gets very cold at night and early in the morning), rain gear, a headlamp, plenty of drinks and snacks, a map (or a map app with spare batteries), trekking poles, and thin gloves are recommended even in summer. In the remaining snow season and winter, you will need snow mountain gear such as crampons and ice axes.
- Altitude sickness: Due to the large difference in altitude, pay close attention to your physical condition. If you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, headache, or dizziness, do not push yourself and either descend or rest.
- Garbage and Manners: Please be sure to take your trash with you. Please follow the mountain hut rules (lights-out time, handling of shoes, use of the cafeteria, etc.) and be considerate of other climbers.
- Water and cash: Mountain huts may only accept cash when purchasing food and drinks, so we recommend carrying some cash with you. Also, there are few vending machines after the trailhead.
- Mobile phone: There are some areas where you may not have cell phone reception. Please submit a mountain climbing notification (postcard at the trailhead or online) in case of an emergency, and inform your family and friends of your plans.
Mt. Tsubakuro has many attractive views and mountain huts, making it a popular mountain for beginners, but you will need to be prepared for the changeable weather conditions and elevation changes that are typical of the Northern Alps. Be sure to be well prepared and enjoy your time in the beautiful mountains safely.
