Kamikochi Revisited Twenty Years Later (Part 4/7) - 9th -12th Aug 2026: Forgotten Giants: Kasumizawa and Roppyaku
Rising on the left bank of the Azusa River (on the opposite side when viewed from Kappa Bridge), Mount Kasumizawa (2,646 meters), along with its outer peaks, Mount Roppyaku (2,470 meters) and Sanbon-yari, may often be overshadowed by the Hotaka Mountain Range, but they are essential peaks that form the southeastern backdrop of Kamikochi's scenery.
Mount Roppyaku, which rises steeply right beside the Azusa River, and Sanbon-yari, with its sharp group of rocky crags protruding near the summit, present a highly dynamic profile that is easily visible from Kappa Bridge and Taisho Pond. However, due to the lack of maintained hiking trails and frequent rockfalls, this area remains a realm of silence and steep cliffs, off-limits to general hikers.
Nestled behind them is Mount Kasumizawa, listed among Japan's 200 Famous Mountains. It is accessible via a trail through Tokugo Pass, offering a challenging day trip or overnight hike. Although the route is demanding with continuous ups and downs, the summit and the ridges along the way reward hikers with a magnificent panoramic view of Mount Yarigatake and the Hotaka Mountain Range standing proudly across the Azusa River.
Stretching just behind the bustling resort area, these rugged rock faces and deep virgin forests serve as the unsung heroes that add profound depth and character to Kamikochi.
Though often overshadowed by the fame of the Hotaka Mountain Range, the mountains on the left bank of the Azusa River hold a unique charm of their own. Because they stand so close, there are surprisingly few spots where you can view them in their entirety, but this area offers one of the best vantage points for both peaks.
While few climbers venture up these mountains, a hiking trail leads to Mt. Kasumizawa along the ridge from Tokugo Pass. Local place names such as Mt. Roppyaku and Hachiemonzawa reflect Kamikochi’s long history as a former timber production site.
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