Mt. Mizugaki — Granite Spires and Rocky Adventure in the Okusecchibu Highlands

Trail Overview

Mt. Mizugaki (瑞牆山, 2,230m) rises dramatically from the forests of Hokuto City in Yamanashi Prefecture. As Hyakumeizan #69, it is one of the most visually distinctive mountains in Japan — its silhouette of soaring white granite pillars rising from dense forest is instantly recognizable from miles away.

The trail winds through beech and Kometsugaridge forest before breaking out onto steep, boulder-strewn terrain with chain-assisted sections near the summit. Despite a modest elevation, the rocky character of the mountain demands more effort than the numbers suggest — making it a satisfying challenge for intermediate hikers.

Nearby Mt. Kinpu (金峰山, 2,599m) is another Hyakumeizan peak, and combining the two as a two-day traverse based at Fujimidaira Hut is a classic itinerary in this corner of Yamanashi.

Recommended Route: Mizugaki Sanso to Summit (Out-and-Back)

Start at Mizugaki Sanso (瑞牆山荘), climb through old-growth forest to Fujimidaira Hut, then tackle the steep boulder fields and chains to the summit. Return the same way.

Course Time

Section	Duration
Mizugaki Sanso (trailhead) → Fujimidaira Hut	About 50 min
Fujimidaira Hut → Amatorikawa stream	About 30 min
Amatorikawa → Oyasuri-iwa rock junction	About 50 min
Oyasuri-iwa junction → Summit	About 20 min
Total ascent	About 2 hrs 30 min
Total descent	About 1 hr 50 min
Total round trip (with breaks)	About 5 hours

Tip: The final approach to the summit is a hands-on scramble over boulders and chains — thrilling and rewarding. From the summit rocks, enjoy views of Mt. Kinpu, Mt. Fuji, and the Southern Alps.

Safety Note: The steep section above Amatorikawa stream requires care both ascending and descending. Wet granite becomes dangerously slippery — choose a dry day whenever possible.

Access Information

• Nearest Station: JR Chuo Main Line, Nirasaki Station (韮崎駅)
• From Tokyo (Shinjuku): JR “Azusa” or “Kaiji” limited express to Nirasaki Station, about 1 hr 30 min
• Bus (seasonal): Yamanashi Kyohoku Kotsu bus from Nirasaki Station to Mizugaki Sanso, about 90 min. Buses are infrequent — confirm the timetable in advance
• By Car: About 45 min from Suttama IC on the Chuo Expressway. Free parking near Mizugaki Sanso (approx. 50 spaces). Arrive early on weekends — it fills by mid-morning

For overseas visitors: The JR Pass covers the “Azusa”/“Kaiji” express from Shinjuku. Given the limited bus service, renting a car from Nirasaki is a practical option.

Convenience Stores, Shops & Restrooms

Convenience Stores (near Nirasaki Station)

• 7-Eleven near Nirasaki Station: Just outside the station; stock up before boarding the bus
• There are no convenience stores near Masutomi Radium Onsen or Mizugaki Sanso
• Drivers: convenience stores near Suttama IC on the Chuo Expressway

Shops & Mountain Huts

• Mizugaki Sanso (mountain lodge): Sells drinks and light snacks. Restrooms available (fee)
• Fujimidaira Hut (富士見平小屋): Drinks, meals, accommodation, and a popular campsite (¥500–1,000/person). The hut’s fresh milk (富士見平牛乳) is a local favorite

Restrooms

• Near Mizugaki Sanso: Public restroom (free)
• Fujimidaira Hut: Flush toilets (¥100 donation)
• No restrooms on the summit trail above Fujimidaira

Highlights

Spring (May–June)

• Rhododendron blossoms frame the granite spires
• The contrast of fresh green foliage against white rock is superb
• Some snow may linger on shaded slopes into May — check conditions

Summer (July–August)

• Shady forest trails keep temperatures manageable even in peak summer
• Tent camping at Fujimidaira is a highlight for overnight visitors
• Bring insect repellent (mosquitoes and horse flies are active)

Autumn (October–early November)

• Larch (karamatsu) turns brilliant gold against the grey rock towers — one of Yamanashi’s finest autumn color displays
• Exceptional long-range visibility to Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps
• Popular season: start early to beat crowds on the narrow trail

The Granite World

• Oyasuri-iwa (大ヤスリ岩): A 200m vertical granite face beside the trail, popular with rock climbers. It looms impressively as you approach the summit
• The summit area is covered with a labyrinth of granite boulders and fins found nowhere else in the Kanto region
• Using rock cracks and ledges to navigate to the very top gives the climb an adventurous character

Packing Checklist

• ✅ Hiking boots (high-cut; rocky terrain requires ankle support)
• ✅ Gloves (for chain and rock grip)
• ✅ Rain jacket and pants
• ✅ Trail snacks and lunch
• ✅ Water (at least 1.5L; refill possible at Fujimidaira Hut)
• ✅ Warm layer (summit can be cold in spring and autumn)
• ✅ Headlamp
• ⬜ Trekking poles (helpful on steep sections near Amatorikawa)
• ⬜ Gaiters (for residual snow in spring)