Find Your Summit: A Solo Escape to Mt. Norikura

#mytraveldiary

Tired of the noise? I traded cityscapes for volcanic peaks on a solo weekend recharge at Mt. Norikura. It was the perfect blend of adventure and serene solitude.

My Solo Itinerary:

· Day 1: Took a relaxing bus from Tokyo to the Norikura Highlands. Checked into a friendly guesthouse (great for meeting other travelers!). Spent the afternoon exploring the serene Tatamidaira Plateau, with easy, well-marked trails.
· Day 2: The highlight! An early bus to the Norikura Echo Line's summit station. Hiked the breathtaking trail to Kengamine Peak (3,026m), Japan’s highest accessible by road. The 360-degree views were my reward. Returned to Matsumoto for a well-earned bowl of soba noodles before the train home.

Top Tips for Solo Travelers:

· Stay Social: Choose a lodge in the Highlands. It’s easy to connect with fellow hikers over a communal dinner.
· Pack Layers: The summit is cold, even in summer. A waterproof jacket is essential.
· Check Bus Schedules: Buses to the summit are limited. Plan ahead to avoid missing them.
· Embrace the Silence: Sit by a waterfall or at the peak. These quiet moments are the best part of traveling alone.

This trip was the ultimate reset. No distractions, just nature, my own pace, and the incredible feeling of reaching the top on my own terms. Your adventure awaits.

#solonorikuraescape

Post by SonnySideUp | Sep 3, 2025