- The Northern Japan Alps
– The Panorama Ginza Trail – - Nagano, Japan
- The perfect tour for hikers looking for a stunning introduction to four-day trekking course in Japan.
- Price
- JPY 210,000~
- Duration
- 4nights 5days
- Season
- July to October
Tour Concept
For experienced hikers with confidence in your physical stamina, the Panorama Ginza Trail presents an exceptional opportunity to traverse the dramatic landscapes of the Japanese Alps. Even those who feel uneasy about trekking in unfamiliar terrain can enjoy this mountain journey with peace of mind under the escort of a reliable guide. The tour also includes a visit to the scenic Kamikōchi area, known for its breathtaking landscapes—making it a well-rounded adventure that combines alpine challenge with serene natural beauty.
Highlights
Trek the iconic Panorama Ginza Trail in the Japanese Alps
True to its name, this renowned ridge route in the Northern Alps offers sweeping panoramic views and is one of the most popular traverse trekking courses in the region. The trail connects Mt. Chōgatake (2,677 m), Mt. Jōnen (2,857 m)—one of Japan's celebrated 100 peaks—Mt. Ōtenjō (2,921 m), the highest point along the route, and the graceful summit of Mt. Tsubakuro (2,763 m). Throughout the journey, breathtaking alpine vistas unfold time and again, surrounding trekkers with a dynamic and awe-inspiring mountain landscape.
A dedicated mountain guide offers full support
This is a private hiking tour—not a large group trek that can leave you feeling uneasy. Your dedicated guide provides personalized support throughout, offering the flexibility to adjust to each guest’s pace and fitness level. That adaptability is what makes this experience truly special.
Endless panoramic views and countless photo opportunities!
Once you ascend to the ridgeline where Chōgatake Hut stands, a spectacular alpine vista stretches continuously all the way to Enzansō Lodge. On your left side, the first half of the route offers close-up views of the 3,000-meter-class peaks of the Yari-Hotaka mountain range across the Azusa River valley. In the latter half, gaze across the sculpted valley of the Takase River toward the majestic Tateyama range and the headwaters of the Kurobe River. On your right, the cityscapes of Matsumoto and Azumino unfold below—letting you savor your stay in this lofty world above the clouds.





Itinerary
01
Matsumoto – Kamikochi
Meet your guide at Matsumoto Station in Nagano Prefecture at 09:30am.
From there, board a shared bus bound for Kamikōchi (1,500 m), one of Japan's most scenic alpine destinations, with stunning views of the Hotaka mountain range. Upon arrival, enjoy a gentle hike through the beautiful Kamikōchi landscape, a pristine highland valley nestled in the heart of the Northern Japan Alps—revered for its dramatic mountain scenery and crystal-clear rivers. Take in the impressive panorama of the Hotaka peaks from Kappa Bridge, and stroll along the nature exploration trail while listening to the serene murmuring of the Azusa River.
02
Kamikochi – Mt Chōgatake (2,677m) - Chōgatake Hut (2,660m)
Approx. 7 hours trekking
Approx. 7 hours trekking
Begin Your Northern Japan Alps Trek – Kamikōchi to Mt. Chōgatake (2,677 m) Your alpine adventure starts from Kamikōchi, You’ll set off on a full-day trek into Japan’s mountainous interior. The route begins with a steep ascent through lush forests, gradually revealing expansive views as you climb along the Nagakabe Ridge. Your destination is the summit of Mt. Chōgatake, standing at 2,677 meters, where the Chōgatake mountain hut provides a restful place to take in panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks.
03
Chōgatake Hut – Mt. Jōnen (2,857m) – Jōnen Hut (2,450m)
Approx. 5 hours trekking
Approx. 5 hours trekking
Head north along the Jōnen Ridge toward Chōyari (2,664 m), passing through gentle ascents and descents while enjoying sweeping panoramic views of the iconic Yari-Hotaka mountain range.
After exiting the forested zone and climbing a rocky slope, you'll reach the summit of Mt. Jōnen (2,857 m), one of Japan's celebrated 100 Famous Mountains.
Take in the breathtaking 360-degree views from the summit before descending to Jōnen Hut (2,450 m), nestled on the mountain's flank.
04
Jonen Hut (2,450m) – Mt. Otensho (2,922m) – Mt.Tsubakuro (2,763m) – Enzanso Hut (2,712m)
Approx. 7.5 hours trekking
Approx. 7.5 hours trekking
After witnessing the brilliant morning glow over the Yarigatake–Hotaka mountain range, you pass through a thicket of dwarf pines and skirt around Mt. Yokodori and Mt. Higashi-Tenshō to reach Ōtenjō Hut (2,875m). Upon arrival, you make a short round trip (approx. 10 minutes one way) to Mt. Ōtenjō (2,922m) - the highest peak of the Jōnen Mountains.
Rejoining the renowned Omote Ginza trail, you continue northward, with sweeping views to your left of Mt. Yarigatake, Mt. Suishō, and Mt. Washiba, which mark the headwaters of the Kurobe River. Eventually, you arrive at the ever-popular Enzansō Mountain Lodge (2,712m), nestled in the Northern Alps.
After setting down your pack, you make a round trip to Mt. Tsubakuro (2,763m), famed for its sculpted granite formations and fields of alpine flowers such as komakusa. From the summit, a breathtaking 360-degree panorama unfolds, and on clear days, even Mt. Fuji graces the distant skyline.
05
Enzanso Hut – Nakabusa Onsen – Matsumoto
Approx. 5 hours trekking
Approx. 5 hours trekking
After breakfast, descend the Kassen Ridge—one of the three steepest climbs in the Northern Alps—toward Nakabusa Hot Spring. Then, transfer by private vehicle to JR Matsumoto Station. Upon arrival, the tour concludes.
Price
Price per person | |
---|---|
Tour cost for 2025/2026 4nights 5days |
JPY290,000 Group of 2 people |
JPY240,000 Group of 3 people |
|
JPY210,000 Group of 4-5 people |
|
Single room supplement (Kamikochi only) | JPY12,000 |
** Prices are for reference only. Final costs may vary depending on actual travel dates, accommodations, and other factors. Please contact us for a customized quote.
** This itinerary serves as a general guideline for the tour. We are happy to customize the content—including activity types, tour duration, and accommodation upgrades—based on your preferences.
Fitness Level 3.5 out of 5
The estimated actual trekking time per day is approximately 6 to 9 hours. The maximum elevation gain is around 1,100 meters on Day 2, while the descent reaches up to 1,260 meters on the final day, with additional ups and downs along the way. Participants should be accustomed to mountain walking and possess the stamina to hike for extended periods, even over uneven terrain and rocky sections.
As all belongings must be carried during the hike, please pack as compactly as possible in a suitable trekking backpack. Large items such as suitcases cannot be brought along and should be stored at your hotel in Matsumoto and pick it up after the tour.
Payment:
We require booking fee of JPY50,000 per person and the final payment is due 45days prior to departure.Form of payment :
Bank transfer or credit card (Visa or Master)Inclusions:
4nights accommodations (1night at hotel and 3nights at Mountain hut)
English speaking trekking guide through out the tour
Shared express bus fare from Matsumoto to Kamikochi
Private vehicle on Day5 from Nakabusa Onsen to Matsumoto
5 Breakfasts and 4 dinners
All entry fees to sites, activities listed in the itinerary
Exclusive of:
International & domestic Airfares
Meals that are not included in the itinerary
Travel Insurance
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Personal expenses such as laundry bills, extra luggage delivery service etc.
Climate
Please bring warm layers such as a fleece or a lightweight down jacket. In case of inclement weather or high winds, be sure to pack a rain suit with separate jacket and pants. Footwear should be waterproof mountaineering boots.Accommodation
Apart from Kamikōchi, you will stay in mountain huts for three nights. Private rooms are not available; accommodations are generally shared rooms separated by gender. However, depending on availability, mixed-gender dormitory rooms may be used.
Dietary Restriction
Mountain hut may not accept requests for special meals.Note
** According to weather conditions and local information, we may be forced to adjust or change tour schedule as needed. Please note that any supplementary costs incurred in such cases will need to be covered by the guest.
3rd floor, Kyodo Bldg. Jimbocho, 2-2, Kanda-Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0051, Japan |Travel Agency Registration No. 607

