Explore the Japanese Northern Alps
with an IML
Private hiking and trekking tours based in Hakuba, Nagano, Japan.
Yamanote
Yamanote
About Your Guide
I am a certified International Mountain Leader (IML), qualified to lead hiking and trekking adventures in mountain environments.
I speak Japanese only, so communication in English will be supported using a translation app on my smartphone. Please book a tour only if you are comfortable with this.
Yamanote offers guided hiking and trekking experiences, primarily in the Hakuba area of Nagano, Japan. Tours are limited to small groups of up to six participants, depending on the route and conditions.
Hakuba is a beautiful mountain village surrounded by the spectacular Japanese Northern Alps. Since founding Yamanote in 2015, my goal has been simple: to help visitors experience these mountains safely while creating unforgettable memories.
As a local guide living in Hakuba, I spend much of my time exploring the mountains in every season. Whether you are looking for a scenic hike, an alpine adventure, or a challenging trek, I will help you discover the best of the Japanese Northern Alps at a pace that matches your experience and goals.
Mountain Guide
Your Guide
Toshinari Sato(Toshi)
- Certified Guide of the Japan Mountain Guides Association
- International Mountain Leader Certified Guide
Guide fee (1 day)
No-Snow Season
Above 2,500 m:¥70,000–80,000
Below 2,500 m: ¥60,000
Snow Season
2,000–2,500 m: ¥100,000
Below 2,000 m:¥80,000
Guide fee only. Accommodation, transportation, meals, mountain hut fees, ropeway/cable car fares, entrance fees, and all other personal expenses are not included.
Mountain Tours
Mt. Amakazari (1,963 m)
Mt. Amakazari is a beautiful mountain known for its unspoiled natural environment and peaceful atmosphere.
The trail includes several steep sections, and exposed tree roots can make parts of the route slippery. A reasonable level of fitness is required to enjoy this hike safely.
Depending on trail conditions, weather, and the hiking pace on the day, the guide may decide to shorten the route or turn back before reaching the summit for safety reasons.
Depending on the season, you can enjoy beautiful alpine flowers, vibrant autumn colors, and stunning panoramic views near the summit.
**Season:** June to October
Mt. Karamatsu (2,696 m)
Mt. Karamatsu is one of the more accessible peaks in the Japanese Northern Alps. On a clear day, the trail offers spectacular views of the Hakuba Three Peaks and the surrounding Ushiro-Tateyama Mountain Range.
Access to the trailhead is made easy by using the gondola and chairlifts at Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort, allowing you to gain elevation efficiently while reducing the physical effort required for the ascent.
Although the hike can be completed as a day trip, the standard round-trip hiking time is approximately 9 hours. Because the gondola and chairlifts operate only during specific hours, I recommend staying overnight at a mountain hut and enjoying the climb over two days.
This is an excellent route for hikers looking to experience the beauty of the Japanese Northern Alps for the first time.
Mt. Tsubakuro (2,763 m)
Queen of the Japanese Northern Alps
Known as the “Queen of the Japanese Northern Alps,” Mt. Tsubakuro is famous for its striking white granite ridgeline and breathtaking alpine scenery.
On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent panoramic views, including the iconic peak of Mt. Yari rising dramatically on the horizon. The mountain’s elegant landscape has made it one of the most beloved destinations in the Northern Alps.
The ascent follows the Kassen Ridge Trail, renowned as one of the three steepest approaches in the Japanese Northern Alps. While physically demanding, the spectacular scenery makes every step worthwhile.
Hakuba Three Peaks Traverse
3 Days / 2 Nights
Sarukura – Hakuba Daisekkei – Hakuba Sanzan – Hakuba Yari Onsen – Sarukura
This classic traverse is one of the best ways to experience the beauty and diversity of the Japanese Northern Alps. The route combines the famous Hakuba Daisekkei (Big Snowfield), spectacular alpine flowers, dramatic ridgelines, and a relaxing soak at the wild Hakuba Yari Onsen.
Recommended season: Mid-July to late August
This tour is designed for intermediate to experienced hikers with good fitness and previous mountain hiking experience. It is not suitable for beginners.
Because this route passes through hazardous mountain terrain, including the Hakuba Daisekkei and Hakuba Yari Onsen area, the itinerary is available only while the mountain huts are operating.
Hakuba Daisekkei (Big Snowfield)
Even in the middle of summer, you’ll have the unique experience of hiking across a vast snowfield. However, the area is prone to rockfall, and wearing a helmet is mandatory.
Light crampons are required, and I will provide basic instruction on how to walk safely on snow.
Hakuba Yari Onsen
One of Japan’s highest natural hot springs, Hakuba Yari Onsen offers a truly unforgettable mountain experience.
Please note that soap and shampoo cannot be used to help protect the natural environment.
The approach to and from the hot spring includes steep, slippery rocky sections and snow gullies where rockfall may occur, so careful footing is essential.
Custom Private Tours
Your Personalized Mountain Adventure
This is a fully private tour, carefully planned just for you—not a fixed itinerary.
Would you like to:
Climb a specific mountain?
Enjoy a quiet trail away from the crowds?
Capture breathtaking mountain scenery through photography?
Hike with your family or friends only?
Choose a route that matches your fitness level and hiking experience?
Tell me what you’re looking for, and I’ll create a personalized itinerary based on your interests and travel schedule.
Custom tours are available not only around Hakuba but throughout the Japanese Northern Alps, depending on the destination and itinerary.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, I’ll design a safe and enjoyable adventure at a pace that suits your experience, fitness level, and goals.
Even if you’re simply wondering, “Can I hike this mountain?” or “Can you recommend a route for me?”, I’d be happy to help.
Please feel free to get in touch to discuss your ideal mountain adventure.
Essential items
A detailed equipment list will be provided after your booking is confirmed.
Contact / Booking
