One of the three holy mountains of Japan alongside Mt. Fuji and Hakusan, Tateyama is one of the premier hikes of Japan that is on every mountain connoisseur’s radar. It’s a popular mountain that experts aim to tackle, but also popular enough for casuals to head to for day trips. Tateyama is located in Toyama prefecture, south-east of Toyama city. If you’ve planned a trip to Japan you may have come across images of a bus alongside a road surrounded by a wall of snow. Tateyama is at the top of this road, the famous “Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route”. Fear not snow haters, the bus runs in summer climbing season for all to enjoy.
Access
As one of the more famous mountains in Japan, Tateyama is perfectly set up to be done as a daytrip (albeit expensive) if you’re staying in Toyama city and set out early in the morning. During the warm months you’ll likely make the trip with many others so there are no worries about getting lost or taking the wrong bus/train.
From Toyama station take the Toyama Chiho Tetsudo Line to the final station, Tateyama station (Not the mountain however…). The ride will take a little over an hour. Once at Tateyama station walk over to the cable car. Here you can purchase tickets for both the cable car and bus at the top of the mountain along the “Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route” beginning at the top cable car station called Bijodaira. Make sure to purchase a ticket for Murodo station. This is the bus station/ hiking hub for people climbing Tateyama. The route goes all the way to Nagano prefecture but for the Tateyama hike exit at Murodo station.
The bus ride from Bijodaira to Murodo takes about 50 minutes and will pass by quickly due to the stunning views and cute commentary with a video about the history of the road and nature in the area.
Click here to access the Alpine Route’s official website a detailed timetable from Toyama station to Murodo station.
The Climb
There are many trails from Murodo that cater to casual and advanced hikers alike. The main climb will be along the trail that heads to Oyama (雄山). Tateyama technically has 3 summits with the main one being Oyama, so look out for this sign when starting the climb.
The first half of the climb is very straight forward. There is a well paved concrete path slowly climbing upwards through the valley surrounded by spectacular alpine views. The first half will conclude at a lodge beside the beginning of the steep climb. Rest up and make sure to wear proper footwear for the sharp climb ahead.
The ascent of the second half is very steep and one wrong step could be dangerous. When I did this climb I saw someone wearing dress shoes and needless to say they were not enjoying themselves. After a slow and steep climb up the rocks, you’ll find yourself at the summit. There is a shop at the top and a small shrine at the highest point that you can pay to enter. Enjoy the views and on a clear day you can see a very tiny Mt Fuji.
