Hiuchi-yama

Overview

Hiuchi-yama, located within the Myoko-Togakushi Renge National Park, is a 2,462m mountain, the highest in Niigata Prefecture. Selected as one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains and 100 Famous Flower Mountains, its majestic presence and abundant nature captivate countless climbers and tourists. From the summit, you can enjoy 360-degree views, including Mount Fuji, the Yatsugatake Mountains, the Ushirotayama mountain range, the Noto Peninsula, and Sado Island. The views are especially magical in the early morning or evening on clear days, with expansive seas of clouds. The summit area features a high-altitude dwarf pine belt, and on the south-southeast ridge lies the Raicho Hiroba (Raicho-hira), a habitat for the Japanese ptarmigan. The Japanese ptarmigan is listed as Critically Endangered (Category I) on Niigata Prefecture's Red List, and this mountain range represents the northern limit of its habitat in Japan. Hiuchi-yama boasts marshes teeming with alpine plants, such as Takadani-ike Pond and Tengu no Niwa. In spring, as the snow melts, alpine plants such as Hakusan kozakura (a type of primrose), Myoko torikabuto (a type of aconite), and Japanese cotton grass burst into bloom, coloring the trails. Summer showcases lush greenery, autumn paints the mountain in vibrant fall foliage, and winter brings snow, perfect for skiing and snowshoeing. Climbing Hiuchi-yama is often done as a round trip from Sasagamine on the south side, where a visitor center and campground are located, or in combination with Myoko-san. The trails are well-maintained, making it a safe and enjoyable climb for beginners. Hiuchi-yama offers a captivating experience, blending majestic nature with a rich history. We encourage you to climb Hiuchi-yama and immerse yourself in its breathtaking scenery and abundant nature.