Hotaka Mountains (Highest peak Mt. Oku-hotaka-dake)

The Hotaka mountains include Mt. Oku-hotaka-dake, the third highest elevation among Japanese mountains.  It can be said that the history of the climbing of the Hotaka mountains represents the history of modern Japanese mountain climbing.  These Hotaka mountains were known for the difficulty to attain their summits.  However, they are now looked on as mountains that anyone can enjoy hiking because trails and mountain huts have been well maintained, technology has developed, and the availability of hiking information has significantly improved.  Mountain tour guides and mountain climbing workshops have contributed to the change as well.  This does not necessary mean that these mountains have completely changed into easy places to hike.  Many hikers die in this area.  It is very important to bear in mind that this is an area requiring proper planning and preparation.  You need to have the right gear, physical stamina, mental toughness and fine weather to approach the area.  If you are lacking even one of these, even though you are at the trailhead, you should be brave enough not to enter the mountains.