Hello! This is Pension Bell. This time, we will introduce the record of climbing Mt. Io, located at the northernmost tip of Minami-Yatsugatake, during a break while preparing for the opening. It was the end of October, when the autumn leaves season ended and the area became quieter. Climbing in the clear air was exceptional!
What is Mount Iodake?
Mt. Io is the northernmost mountain in the Southern Yatsugatake Mountains. Its distinctive feature is the huge crater wall on the north side, where you can feel the strong remnants of volcanic activity. On the other hand, the south side is a gentle rocky area, where alpine plants such as yellow rhododendrons and dicentra bloom in the summer.
The view is outstanding!
You can enjoy a wonderful view of the Central and Northern Alps, Northern Yatsugatake, Mt. Asama, the Okuchichibu mountain range, and even Mt. Fuji.
The mountain’s name comes from the fact that sulfur was produced from its crater. However, locals also called it “Mikaburi-dake” (Mikaburi-dake) because of its shape that resembles a winnowing basket.
Climbing route: Approach from Sakuradaira trailhead
This time, we chose the route starting from the Sakuradaira trailhead. This trail is well-maintained and easy to walk, so it is recommended for beginners and parent-child hikers!
Parking information
There are three parking lots at Sakuradaira: Upper, Middle, and Lower. This time, we used the Middle parking lot, which has toilets. There is a fee to use the toilets, but they are very clean and comfortable.
Please note that the road to the parking lots is unpaved and in bad condition from partway through. Please drive with care.
Start climbing!
Starting the hike from the parking lot, after a short walk you will see Natsuzawa Onsen. Unfortunately, it was a maintenance day so we were unable to stop by, but it is recommended to stop by on normal business days.
Continuing on, we arrived at Oren Hut. The hut seemed to be open, so we decided to enjoy lunch here after descending the mountain.
The route from Sakuradaira is…
- The roads are well maintained so there is little risk of getting lost.
- There are almost no dangerous spots, so this route can be enjoyed as a day hike, but staying overnight in a mountain hut or tent is also an attractive option.
From Natsuzawa Pass to the summit
Once you cross Natsuzawa Pass, you’ll leave the forest and your view will suddenly open up. From this area, you’ll be treated to a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains. There are three mountain huts along the route (Natsuzawa Onsen, Oren Hut, and Hutte Natsuzawa), so you can stop by and enjoy the views.
The view from the summit is spectacular!
The majestic mountains of the Yatsugatake Mountains, including Akadake and Yokodake, spread out before your eyes. You can even see Mt. Fuji and the Northern Alps in the distance, making for a truly spectacular view! We were blessed with good weather that day, and enjoyed the wonderful views.
The view from the summit is spectacular!
The majestic mountains of the Yatsugatake Mountains, including Akadake and Yokodake, spread out before your eyes. You can even see Mt. Fuji and the Northern Alps in the distance – it’s truly a spectacular view! We were blessed with good weather that day, so we were able to enjoy the wonderful scenery.
Enjoyment after descending: delicious borsch at Oren Hut!
After descending the mountain and returning to the Oren hut, we had our long-awaited lunch. This time we ordered borsch. It was so delicious and authentic that it was hard to believe it was a mountain hut! It was so tasty that it soaked into our tired bodies after the climb. If you are climbing this route, please give it a try.
From Pension Bell to Sakuradaira trailhead
Pension Bell is located about 50 minutes by car from the Sakuradaira trailhead.
Please use it as a place to stay the night before your hike or to relax after your hike! You can spend a relaxing time in the nearby hot springs and enjoying meals made with local ingredients.
We hope this information will be useful for your next mountain climbing plan. Pension Bell’s blog will continue to deliver plenty of information about mountain climbing and the charms of the Yatsugatake area!
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