Mount Kurumayama is the tallest peak of Mount Kirigamine, one of Japan’s 100 great
mountains.
Located at roughly the center of Japan, the natural environment of Mount Kirigamine is
characterized by its vast, scenic grasslands, gentle contours, and a rich diversity of plants.
The Kirigamine grassland, maintained by the local people who have used it as pasture, is a
semi-wild grassland that developed into its current form in close proximity to human activities.
The combination of the grassland, three wetlands designated as natural treasures (Yashimagahara,
Odoriba and Kurumayama) and a primeval woods have created an environment with a unique plant
habitat, ecosystem and landscape in the Kirigamine area. The Kurumayama-kogen highland is part
of Mount Kirigamine, which is inside the Yatsugatake Chushin Kogen Quasi-National Park.
Trekking Guide from Mount Kurumayama to Yashimagahara Wetland
On the trekking routes encompassing Kurumayama-kogen, Mount Kirigamine and the Yashimagahara
Wetland, you can enjoy trekking and plant viewing, and experience the highlands and marshes,
all on the same trail.
Here are a few suggested routes.
Route 1: Trail through the Kurumayama grassland and wetland
Time needed: 95 minutes using the mountain lift; 2 hours of hiking.
The trekking route allows for ample exploration of the Kurumayama Wetland, a national natural
treasure located on the north side of Mount Kurumayama, and the surrounding grassland.
Seasonal highlights include Eastern skunk cabbage in early spring, Japanese azaleas in late
June, and daylilies in late July. The colonies of Filipendula camtschatica which flourish at the
end of July are a must-see.
The route is perfect for snowshoe trekking in winter.
Route 2: Trail through Kurumayama Wetland and the primeval woods
Time needed: 3 hours 10 minutes using the mountain lift; 4 hours 15 minutes of hiking
The trail is the only route that takes you through the primeval woods, where you can observe the
varying plant habitats. If you are passing through after the rain, be aware that the footing can
be treacherous; the wetland area turns into creeks and paths within the woods can become
slippery.
Route 3: Trail through Yashimagahara Wetland and the grassland
Time needed: 3 hours 45 minutes using the mountain lift; 4 hours 50 minutes of hiking
This is an ambitious route that features all the major scenic spots and lookouts of the
Kirigamine highland, including Mount Chochomiyama, with its beautiful grassland of gentle
slopes, Monomi-iwa Rock, the Yashimagahara Wetland, which is a natural treasure, and the former
Misaya Shrine. Be careful of your footing during and after the rain.
Kurumayama Mountain Lift: A Ride with a splendid view
Take a 15 minute ride on two mountain lifts connected to each other and you will find yourself at
the peak of Mount Kurumayama, where the breathtaking view of Japan’s finest mountains awaits
you, from Yatsugatake Mountains and Mount Fuji to the Southern, Central, and Northern Alps.
Enjoy the pleasant breeze and the gentle swaying of the lift as it carries you up, and before
you know it, you are at the 1,925 meter mountaintop, taking in a 360-degree panoramic view of
magnificent mountains.
Riding the lift enables you to explore various routes. First-time hikers and families with
seniors and children are also recommended to take the lift.
