A person wearing a backpack hikes along a narrow, rocky mountain ridge in the Kita Alps, surrounded by lush greenery. Majestic peaks loom ahead under a partly cloudy sky, while sunlight bathes parts of the landscape, capturing a breathtaking moment worthy of photos.

Japan Traverse in Photos: The Kita Alps (北アルプス)

ByMac Hours
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My traverse of the Japanese Alps began at the eastern edge of Toyama Bay (富山湾) in Niigata Prefecture (新潟県).

From the coast, my hiking party of two Kiwis and I headed up the northernmost ridgeline in the Kita Alps (北アルプス) – aka the Northern Alps. The trip began with nearly a week of nonstop rain as we traversed – it wasn’t until day four that we saw another person. It wasn’t until day five that we actually saw another hiker on the trail (the people we saw on day four were employees at a mountain hut we camped at).

The Northern Alps stretch from where we began, at the Tsugami Shindo Trailhead, to Ontakesan (御嶽山), or Mount Ontake, in the south. The Kita Alps are the longest of the three ranges comprising the Japanese Alps (the Kita (Northern), Chuo (Central), and Minami (Southern)). This stretch took the first half of the hike – seventeen days (this includes a trip in and out of Toyama (富山市) via train from Tateyama (立山) for a resupply).

The photos in this post are arranged north to south, and the peaks covered in this section are listed at the bottom. The daily itinerary for this route can be found here.

  • Lush green mountains with mist rolling over the peaks, under a cloudy sky, reminiscent of Kita Alps photos. A small red structure, possibly a cabin, is perched on a hilltop, adding a splash of color to the landscape.
  • A lush, green mountain landscape, reminiscent of Kita Alps photos, is dotted with snow patches and covered in mist. The cloudy sky adds a moody atmosphere as distant peaks emerge through the haze, crafting a serene and mystical scene.
  • Two hikers traverse a snowy mountain slope under a cloudy sky, reminiscent of stunning Kita Alps photos. The peaks are sprinkled with patches of green vegetation and lingering snow, creating a dramatic contrast in the landscape. The atmosphere is cold and misty.
  • A ptarmigan with mottled brown and white feathers stands on a rocky slope, reminiscent of scenes from kita alps photos. The foggy, light gray sky in the background enhances the impression of altitude and isolation.
  • The Kita Alps photos capture a mountain range with snow patches beneath a partly cloudy sky. Green slopes grace the foreground, blending seamlessly with the rocky terrain. The majestic mountains extend into the distance, crafting a truly scenic landscape.
  • A rugged mountain landscape reminiscent of kita alps photos, featuring sharp, gray rocky peaks and patches of green vegetation under a cloudy sky. The foreground shows jagged rocks, while the background is dominated by a tall, mist-covered mountain.
  • A steep mountain slope with patches of snow and green vegetation graces the scene. A red-roofed building lies at the base, nestled into the mountainside, reminiscent of captivating Kita Alps photos. The sky is partly cloudy, adding depth to the rugged landscape.
  • A hiker traverses a rugged mountain ridge in the Kita Alps, surrounded by rocky terrain and patches of snow. Clouds partially obscure the distant peaks, with a blend of blue sky and scattered clouds above. The landscape features patches of green vegetation, perfect for breathtaking photos.
  • A helicopter hovers above a modern, rectangular mountain lodge in the Kita Alps, surrounded by steep, rocky hills and patches of greenery. Clouds drift near the rugged peak in the background.
  • Scenic mountain view of the Kita Alps with a lush green hillside partially covered in snow. A cluster of buildings nestled between the hills, and distant snow-capped peaks are visible under a cloudy sky, perfectly capturing the serene beauty found in kita alps photos.
  • A man in a blue jacket holds a cup of noodles with chopsticks, his short beard catching the light of the rustic wooden interior. Its almost as if he just returned from capturing stunning Kita Alps photos, savoring a warm meal indoors at a cozy table.
  • A cozy room with tatami flooring showcases three sets of red floral futons and plaid pillows stacked neatly in a row, ready for use. The wood-paneled walls evoke the warm ambiance of traditional lodgings found near the picturesque Kita Alps.
  • A mountain landscape featuring a rocky cliff with a chain bolted into its side is reminiscent of classic Kita Alps photos, with green and snow-capped peaks visible in the background under a clear blue sky.
  • A person wearing a plaid shirt and cap stands on a rocky peak, gazing at the expansive Kita Alps. A large backpack with red poles is strapped to their back. The sky above is clear, dotted with a few clouds, creating the perfect backdrop for capturing breathtaking photos.
  • A lush green mountain under a clear blue sky, reminiscent of the stunning beauty captured in Kita Alps photos, features a steep, rugged peak with scattered patches of snow. Dense foliage is visible in the foreground.
  • A rugged mountain peak in the Kita Alps showcases green vegetation and patches of snow under a bright blue sky. The foreground features rocky terrain, leading up to the steep, lush slopes of this majestic region captured in breathtaking photos.
  • Two hikers traverse a rocky mountain ridge in the Kita Alps, where patches of snow cling to the peaks. Behind them, the majestic summits are adorned with snow and shrouded by drifting clouds under a bright blue sky.
  • A gray tent is pitched on rocky terrain near a snow-covered mountain slope under a cloudy, pinkish sky. The majestic peak of the Kita Alps rises in the background, partially veiled in snow, creating a serene and breathtaking landscape perfect for memorable photos.
  • A rugged mountain ridge with patches of snow and green vegetation stretches under a clear blue sky dotted with clouds. The rocky terrain of the Kita Alps slopes steeply, offering an expansive view of the surrounding landscape, perfect for breathtaking photos.
  • A wooden path winds its way to a building with red roofs, nestled in the lush, green landscape reminiscent of Kita Alps photos. As the sun sets, a hill gently rises to the left under a sky that fades from blue to orange, creating a serene and picturesque scene.
  • Two hikers navigate a rocky stream in a lush forested area, akin to scenes from Kita Alps photos. One person, wearing a backpack, crosses the water over rocks and fallen branches. The other stands on the bank holding gear. The scene is vibrant with greenery and flowing water.
  • Two hikers with backpacks cross a shallow, rocky stream surrounded by lush green foliage and trees. The scene is vibrant and natural, capturing the essence of adventure in a forested landscape reminiscent of kita alps photos.
  • A rushing river flows under a rope bridge marked with an orange ribbon, reminiscent of the serene landscapes found in Kita Alps photos. Large rocks are scattered in the water, surrounded by lush green trees. The sky is partially visible through the foliage.
  • A wooden suspension bridge spans a calm, green river in the heart of a mountainous landscape reminiscent of Kita Alps photos. Lush greenery and rocky cliffs line both sides, beneath a partly cloudy sky.
  • A large dam releasing water into a narrow river valley in the breathtaking Kita Alps, surrounded by lush green mountains. The partly cloudy sky adds depth to the landscape, conveying both a sense of scale and natural beauty reminiscent of classic photos.
  • Three hikers pose playfully around a large stone with inscriptions in the Kita Alps, wearing backpacks and hiking gear. The rocky area is under overcast skies. One person lies on the ground in front of the stone, while two others stand beside it, capturing memorable photos.
  • A vibrant yellow and a white tent are set up on rocky terrain at a campsite. In the background, sunlight illuminates lush green Kita Alps mountains with patches of snow beneath a blue sky with scattered clouds—perfect for capturing stunning photos.
  • Two hikers traverse a large snow-covered mountain slope in the Kita Alps, with patches of exposed rock. The sky is clear and blue, contrasting with the white snow. A narrow trail winds up the slope, while greenery peeks through near the crest—a perfect shot for any Kita Alps photo enthusiast.
  • A rugged mountain landscape in the Kita Alps showcases sharp peaks and patches of snow. Lush greenery cloaks parts of the slopes, contrasting with the rocky terrain. A clear blue sky stretches overhead, casting light across this stunning photo scene.
  • Mountain ranges stretch into the distance, layered with mist and soft blue hues like a scene from Kita Alps photos. The foreground features rocky terrain and patches of green grass, while the sky is clear and bright, enhancing the serene, expansive landscape.
  • A scenic view of the Kita Alps mountain range showcases steep slopes partially covered in snow under a blue sky with clouds. Green shrubs adorn the foreground, creating a lush contrast with the rocky peaks, making it perfect for capturing stunning photos.
  • Nestled in the heart of rocky terrain, this scenic campsite is peppered with vibrant tents, evoking the charm of Kita Alps photos. Lush green hills and snowy patches embrace the area, while a serene lake glimmers under a sky adorned with fluffy white clouds.
  • A hiker with a large green backpack stands on a grassy hill, gazing at a jagged, snow-dotted mountain peak under a partly cloudy sky—a scene reminiscent of stunning Kita Alps photos.
  • A wooden direction sign sits on a rocky terrain, pointing left. In the background, the majestic Kita Alps rise under a blue sky with scattered clouds. Sparse greenery is visible on the slopes, adding contrast to the rugged landscape captured in these striking photos.
  • People climb a steep, rocky mountain in the Kita Alps, wearing colorful hiking gear. The rugged peak rises against a clear blue sky, with climbers forming a line along the path, showcasing the challenging ascent captured in breathtaking photos.
  • A rugged mountain landscape in the Kita Alps features a sharp, rocky peak under a partially cloudy sky. The slopes are dotted with patches of grass and loose rocks, while a small building perches on one ridge. Majestic mountains stretch into the distance, inviting exploration and photos aplenty.
  • Rocky mountain ridge with white trail markers, surrounded by steep slopes and patches of snow. The expansive view resembles breathtaking kita alps photos, showcasing distant peaks under a blue, cloudy sky.
  • Three hikers smile for a selfie on a rocky mountain peak in the Kita Alps. One holds a wooden sign. Snow patches contrast with the dramatic landscape in the background under a partly cloudy sky, capturing the beauty of their alpine adventure.
  • A mountain refuge with red-roofed buildings sits on a rocky slope surrounded by the rugged green of the Kita Alps. Patches of snow adorn the peaks under a blue sky dotted with scattered clouds, perfect for capturing breathtaking photos.
  • A rocky mountain landscape with a clear blue sky reminiscent of classic Kita Alps photos. Hikers traverse a narrow path on the steep slope. Snow patches speckle the terrain, while green vegetation adds contrast. Distant peaks rise majestically in the background.
  • Two hikers in outdoor gear ascend a jagged, rocky mountain ridge under a dramatic, cloudy sky reminiscent of the Kita Alps. The hiker in green leads the way in the foreground, while their companion trails near the peak, capturing a scene of adventure and challenge worthy of memorable photos.
  • A rugged mountain peak with sharp, jagged rocks under a partly cloudy sky evokes the beauty often captured in Kita Alps photos. Soft clouds float nearby, and distant mountains are visible in the background, all bathed in natural light emphasizing the textures of the rocky surface.
  • A hiker captures a selfie against the dramatic backdrop of the Kita Alps during sunset. The rugged peaks and snow patches complement the skys orange, blue, and purple hues, creating a stunning scene reminiscent of classic alps photos.
  • A small shop interior with shelves displaying various products like instant noodles, cleaning supplies, and books. A counter holds water bottles, a donation box, and assorted items. A sign with Japanese text hangs above the counter beneath framed Kita Alps photos.
  • Scenic view of a lush, green mountain range under a partly cloudy sky, reminiscent of stunning Kita Alps photos. The foreground features a rocky, winding path leading to a valley. Dense forests cloak the hillsides, with distant peaks fading into the horizon.
  • A rocky mountain ridge leads to a crater filled with a turquoise lake under a clear blue sky. Green hills and distant mountains surround the area, creating a scenic landscape perfect for those seeking Kita Alps photos.
  • A winding mountain road curves along a textured concrete retaining wall, reminiscent of those seen in stunning Kita Alps photos. Lush greenery lines the road, while a blue sky dotted with clouds and distant peaks complete the picturesque scene. Power lines stretch overhead.
  • Amidst the stunning scenery of the Kita Alps, a picturesque mountain landscape unfolds. A paved path winds through lush green hills, leading to a sharp, triangular peak under a blue sky with scattered clouds, as two small figures traverse this breathtaking vista.
  • A dead hornet lies upside down on the textured, gray asphalt, reminiscent of paths often trekked in kita alps photos. Its body, with orange and black stripes, has translucent wings spread out, showcasing their detailed pattern and structure.
  • A person with a large backpack hikes through a dense, green forest filled with tall grass and leafy trees under dappled sunlight, capturing the essence of adventure akin to those found in stunning Kita Alps photos.
  • A serene mountain scene resembling kita alps photos features a calm, reflective lake at the base of rocky peaks. The slopes display a tapestry of brown, gray, and green. Clouds partially cover the blue sky, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

Kita Alps Peaks

  • Nyudoyama (入道山) – 1470 ft / 448 m
  • Shiritakayama (尻高山) – 2221 ft / 677 m
  • Sakatatoge (坂田峠) – 1903 ft / 580 m
  • Shiratoriyama (白鳥山) – 4222 ft / 1286.8 m
  • Shimokomagatake (下駒ヶ岳) – 4072 ft / 1241 m
  • Kikuishiyama (菊石山) – 3969 ft / 1209.7 m
  • Orenyama (黄蓮山) – 4462 ft / 1360 m
  • Inugatake (犬ヶ岳) – 5225 ft / 1592.5 m
  • Sawaganiyama (サワガニ山) – 5290 ft / 1612.3 m
  • Kuroiwayama (黒岩山) – 5327 ft / 1623.6 m
  • Nagatsugayama (長栂山) – 7438 ft / 2267 m
  • Asahidake (朝日岳) – 7047 ft / 2147.9 m
  • Yukikuradake (雪倉岳) – 8566 ft / 2610.9 m
  • Mikunisakai (三国境) – 9026 ft / 2751 m
  • Shiroumadake* (白馬岳) – 9620 ft / 2932.3 m
  • Maruyama (丸山) – 9081 ft / 2768 m
  • Shakushidake (杓子岳) – 9226 ft / 2812 m
  • Yarigatake (鑓ヶ岳) – 9525 ft / 2903.2 m
  • Tengu Peak (天狗の頭) – 9226 ft / 2812.1 m
  • Karamatsudake (唐松岳) – 8845 ft / 2695.9 m
  • Daikokudake (大黒岳) – 7851 ft / 2393 m
  • Shiradake (白岳) – 8337 ft / 2541 m
  • Goryudake* (五龍岳) – 9232 ft / 2814 m
  • Kashimayarigatake (North) (鹿島槍ヶ岳北峰) – 9324 ft / 2842 m
  • Kashimayarigatake* (鹿島槍ヶ岳) – 9479 ft / 2889.2 m
  • Nunobikiyama (布引山) – 8802 ft / 2683 m
  • Jiigatake (North) (爺ヶ岳北峰) – 8632 ft / 2631 m
  • Jiigatake (爺ヶ岳) – 8760 ft / 2669.9 m
  • Jiigatake (South Peak) (爺ヶ岳南峰) – 8727 ft / 2660 m
  • Iwagoyazawadake (岩小屋沢岳) – 8630 ft / 2630.5 m
  • Shinkoshinokkoshi (新越乗越) – 8077 ft / 2462 m
  • Narusawadake (鳴沢岳) – 8665 ft / 2641 m
  • Akazawadake (赤沢岳) – 8786 ft / 2678 m
  • Subaridake (スバリ岳) – 9029 ft / 2752 m
  • Harinokidake (針ノ木岳) – 9254 ft / 2820.7 m
  • Harinokitoge (針ノ木峠) – 8320 ft / 2536 m
  • Tateyama (Oyama)* (立山(雄山)) – 9852 ft / 3003 m
  • Ryuodake (龍王岳) – 9423 ft / 2872 m
  • Onidake (鬼岳) – 9022 ft / 2750 m
  • Shishidake (獅子岳) – 8904 ft / 2714 m
  • Zaratoge (ザラ峠) – 7703 ft / 2348 m
  • Tonbiyama (鳶山) – 8583 ft / 2616 m
  • Echuzawadake (越中沢岳) – 8503 ft / 2591.6 m
  • Sugonoatama(?) (スゴの頭) – 7976 ft / 2431 m
  • Mayama (間山) – 8482 ft / 2585.4 m
  • Yakushidake (North) (北薬師岳) – 9514 ft / 2900 m
  • Yakushidake* (薬師岳) – 9600 ft / 2926 m
  • Yakushitoge (薬師峠) – 7526 ft / 2294 m
  • Taroyama (太郎山) – 7785 ft / 2373 m
  • Kitanomatadake (北ノ俣岳) – 8733 ft / 2661.9 m
  • Akagidake (赤木岳) – 8602 ft / 2622 m
  • Nakamatanokkoshi (中俣乗越) – 8038 ft / 2450 m
  • Kurobegorodake* (黒部五郎岳) – 9645 ft / 2939.7 m
  • Mitsumatarengedake (三俣蓮華岳) – 9322 ft / 2841.4 m
  • Maruyama (丸山) – 9364 ft / 2854 m
  • Sugorokudake (双六岳) – 9385 ft / 2860.4 m
  • Momisawadake (樅沢岳) – 9039 ft / 2755 m
  • Ionokkoshi (硫黄乗越) – 8399 ft / 2560 m
  • Senjo Junction (千丈乗越) – 8957 ft / 2730 m
  • Yarigatake* (槍ヶ岳) – 10433 ft / 3180 m
  • Hidanokkoshi (飛騨乗越) – 10105 ft / 3080 m
  • Obamidake (大喰岳) – 10180 ft / 3103 m
  • Nakadake (中岳) – 10118 ft / 3084 m
  • Minamidake (南岳) – 9950 ft / 3032.9 m
  • Daikeretto (大キレット) – 9016 ft / 2748 m
  • Kita-Hotakadake (北穂高岳) – 10190 ft / 3106 m
  • Karasawadake (涸沢岳) – 10203 ft / 3110 m
  • Oku-Hotakadake* (穂高岳) – 10466 ft / 3190 m
  • Gendarme (ジャンダルム) – 10377 ft / 3163 m
  • Tengunoatama (天狗ノ頭) – 9544 ft / 2909 m
  • Ainodake (間ノ岳) – 9537 ft / 2907 m
  • Nishihotakadake (西穂高岳) – 9543 ft / 2908.8 m
  • Nishihodoppyo (西穂高岳 独標) – 8862 ft / 2701 m
  • Nishiomaruyama (西穂 山荘) – 8045 ft / 2452 m
  • Waritaniyama (割谷山) – 7297 ft / 2224.2 m
  • Shinnakaotoge (新中尾峠) – 7021 ft / 2140 m
  • Nakatoge (中尾峠) – 7021 ft / 2140 m
  • Yakedake* (焼岳) – 8056 ft / 2455.5 m
  • Iodake (硫黄岳) – 8379 ft / 2554 m
  • Daikokudake (大黒岳) – 9094 ft / 2772 m
  • Fujimidake (富士見岳) – 9242 ft / 2817 m
  • Kodamadake (蚕玉岳) – 9760 ft / 2975 m
  • Kengamine (剣ヶ峰) – 9927 ft / 3025.7 m
  • Mamakodake (継子岳) – 9380 ft / 2859.1 m
  • Hidachojo (御嶽四の池) – 9226 ft / 2812 m

Peaks denoted with an asterisk (*) are part of Nihon Hyakumeizan (100 Famous Japanese Mountains).

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4 Comments

  1. I’ve been contemplating on doing this. starting from Niigata and ending my hike in Kamikochi. Just have a few questions:
    Did you bring all your food? or you can buy food inside the huts along the way.
    Did you do wild camping specially in the first few nights?
    Can someone who doesn’t speak a word of japanese get by the huts? ie., Ordering food or staying in the huts.

    Anyway, great hike! This is the only info I can find about this hike, haha. I hope I can do this in the near future. Thank you so much for these very useful informations!

    Reply

    1. You can buy food in huts along the way to supplement but we chose to also resupply in Toyama (by way of Tateyama) and Nagano (by way of Kiso-Fukushima).

      We both wild camped and stayed in huts (or the huts that would let us camp).

      If you don’t speak Japanese you will find a way, I am sure, but it might be a bit frustrating at times.

      Reply

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