[Nagano] 360-degree panoramic view of the Northern Alps from Mt. Karamatsu

#AutumnFoliageSeason
Dake Karamatsu-dake, 2,696 meters above sea level, is a mountain in the Hida Mountains offering 360-degree panoramic views of the famous Northern Alps.

It's a popular day hike from Happoike Pond on the Hakuba Happo Ridge. While there are some undulating terrain and narrow cliff paths, the trail offers few chain-like obstacles and is easy for beginners. With a bit of luck, you might even spot an endangered ptarmigan.

Note: If you're heading to Karamatsu-dake from Happoike Pond, you'll need full-fledged mountaineering gear.

Note: Be aware that the summit is often windy.

Another plus is the convenience of using the lift and gondola to reach the base, Happoike Pond.

The autumn foliage season is from late September to early October.

A day hike takes about 7 hours from the start of Happoike Pond.

There is a mountain lodge at the summit of Mt. Karamatsu, and we recommend staying overnight if you're planning a traverse or hoping to see the sunrise.

(Toilets are not available for use.)

From the summit, you can overlook Kaerazunoken, one of Japan's three major kilettes.

The spectacular views are well worth the climb!

Even if you're lucky enough to spot a Japanese ptarmigan, it's a Special Natural Monument, so touching it is prohibited! Observe it from a distance.
#Nagano #AutumnFoliage #Hiking #StunningView