Kamikochi Revisited Twenty Years Later (Part 3/7) - 9th -12th Aug 2026: The Fire Mountain, Yakedake
Mount Yakedake, standing at an elevation of 2,455 meters on the border between Nagano and Gifu prefectures, is an active volcano listed among the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains. As the most active volcano in the Northern Alps (Hida Mountains), white plumes of steam still rise near its summit today, allowing visitors to closely feel the breath of the Earth alongside the scent of sulfur.
The mountain has also played a significant role in the region's history. During its major eruption in 1915, a mudflow dammed the Azusa River, resulting in the creation of Taisho Pond—one of Kamikochi’s most iconic scenic spots. In a sense, Mount Yakedake can be seen as the creator of Kamikochi’s stunning natural landscape.
It is also a popular destination among hikers, offering a relatively easy ascent within the Northern Alps that can be completed as a day trip. From the summit, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking, panoramic view encompassing the Hotaka Mountain Range, Mount Yarigatake, and the sprawling valley of Kamikochi below.
The dynamic volcanic beauty of its rugged rock faces and rising steam provides a striking contrast to the lush greenery of Kamikochi, continuing to captivate many hikers and tourists alike.



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