Panaroma Ginza Trail

The Panorama Ginza Trail is a 3–4 day alpine traverse in Japan’s Northern Alps, linking peaks like Mt. Tsubakuro, Mt. Otenshō, Mt. Jonen, and Mt. Chogatake along a dramatic ridgeline with sweeping views of Mt. Yari, the Hotaka range, and the Azumino plains. Starting from Nakabusa Onsen and often ending near Kamikochi, the route covers about 25–35 km and offers a mix of steady climbs, exposed ridges, and breathtaking panoramas, with mountain huts and tent sites providing rest along the way. It’s an intermediate-level trek, best enjoyed in summer for alpine flowers or early autumn for vibrant foliage, and is considered one of Japan’s most scenic multi-day hikes.

ℹ️ Trail Details & Essentials

🌐 Trail information: The Japan Alps

🗺️ Map: Yamap

🌦️ Weather check: Tenkura Tsubakuro | Tenkura Otensho | Tenkura Jonen | Tenkura Chogatake

🪪 Permits & Regulations: N.A.

🟢 Trailhead (Start Point): Nakabusa Onsen

📍 Access: Route bus from Hotaka Station (Fare: JPY 1,500 yen one-way) Refer to Nakabusa timetable

🔴 Trail End (Finish Point): Kamikochi

📍 Access: Refer to Kamikochi

Rising 2763m above sea level, the shining white granite mountain called Mt. Tsubakuro is also known as the Queen of the Northern Alps. As you walk along the ridge towards the summit, highlights include unusual rock formations called glass rock or dolphin rock and alpine flowers called Komakusa which bloom abundantly in this area. The "Enzansou" Mountain Hut built in 1921 is one of the most popular mountain huts in Japan offering lodging, a tea house as well as a souvenir shop.

From the trailhead, the Kassen Ridge trail ascends 1250m up to the hut and is considered one of the three steepest ascents in the Alps. The trail is long and steep but is well maintained making it a good introductory course to the Northern Alps for beginner to intermediate hikers. Stop by Benches No 1, 2,3 and Fujimi bench to rest along the way as well as the Kassen Hut which although it doesn't have accommodations, offers food including a local "mountain" specialty - watermelon! Upon reaching Enzansou, check-in and make one more push up to the summit and back

Advice: Kassen Ridge is long and steep. Maintain an even pace and don't rush. The Higashizawa route is for experienced hikers only. Nakabusa Onsen and Ariake Onsen hotsprings are located near the trailhead.

The day begins with very steep ascent along a path that zigzags up the mountain towards the summit of Mt. Jonen. From the summit, there will be a large descent followed by a hike across an undulating ridgeline with beautiful views. Pass Cho-Yari, Yokoo iunction, and Meiso-no-oka to reach Chogatake Hutte Mountain Hut. 

🏔️ Peaks

🎒 Packing List (camping)