Spanning over 80 kilometers in length, Japan’s Central Alps encompasses a vast area stretching from Southern Nagano up to the borders of Gifu and Aichi Prefectures.
Although often overshadowed by the more popular Northern and Southern Alps, the Central Alps provide plenty of excitement as you traverse along its rocky terrain and craggy peaks.
Measuring almost 3000 meters in height, this mountain range is home to the principle peaks of Mount Kiso-Koma, (Kiso-koma-ga-take) and Utsugi-Dake. While traversing these impressive peaks, you will experience a dramatic landscape dominated by deep mountain valleys covered in a thick blanket of floating clouds that provides a truly surreal experience. On the downside however, these mountains are also notorious for their bad weather.
For anyone wanting to traverse this range, a great option involves doing the two day hike from the top of Senjoki Cable Car Station to Komagane-Kogen where you can either stay overnight in a mountain hut or camp nearby.
As I made my way out of the cable car station, I wondered if this adventure would provide plenty of great views or bring yet more unwanted rain. I prayed for the former!
