Mount Akaishi

The summit was last year in July 2023. The rainy season had not yet ended, and I was the first guest at Akaishi and Arakawa huts, as I departed from Sawashima on the first day the huts opened in a clockwise loop. It was raining lightly when we left Sawarajima Hut at 5 a.m. We held out for about 2 hours while checking the situation at Akaishi Hut on the way, but then decided to take the plunge and attack the summit at 10 a.m. (we would return if the weather worsened with the people at the hut). (I promised to come.) When we reached the ridgeline of Mt. Akaishi, there was a gust of wind blowing at a speed of 30M/sec, but we managed to reach the summit and reach the Arakawa hut. (This photo was taken from the top of the mountain.) Since I was the first visitor of the season, I would like to thank the people at Akaishi-goya and Arakawa-goya for their hospitality. The Arakawagoya specialty curry rice was especially delicious! The next day, we safely returned to Sawarajima via Mt. Akuzawa (Arakawa).

## Who is Gaku Akaishi? Its charm and how to access it Akaishi-dake is a 3,120 meter high mountain located in the southern part of the Southern Alps and is one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains. It is one of the highest mountains in the Southern Alps, and is characterized by its majestic appearance. Mt. Akaishi is also popular as a mountain where you can enjoy traversing the surrounding mountains, and you can fully enjoy the majestic nature while walking along its ridgeline. From the summit of Mt. Akaishi, you can see the famous peaks of the Northern, Central, and Southern Alps, and on clear days you can even see Mt. Fuji in the distance, attracting many climbers. Many of the routes are suitable for experienced mountaineers, and require serious mountaineering, including overnight stays in mountain huts or tents, but the sense of accomplishment when you reach the summit is exceptional. --- ## Climbing route of Mt. Akaishi Climbing Mt. Akaishi typically takes two nights and three days or more, and the mountain trail is relatively long, so physical stamina is required. We will introduce two typical mountain climbing routes. ### 1. **Route from Sawarajima (main route)** #### Recommended points: The Sawarajima route is the most common route from Sawashima in Shizuoka Prefecture to Mt. Akaishi. This route is well-maintained and relatively easy to climb, so many climbers use it. Access to Sawarajima, the trailhead, is by a special bus, making it an easy route for beginners to take on. **Day 1** From Sawarajima, we will aim for ``Akaishi Goya''. The altitude difference is 1,300 meters, and the climb takes about 6 to 7 hours. Along the way, the altitude gradually increases as you pass through the forest belt, and there are points where you can enjoy the scenery, so you can have fun while walking. We will stay at the Akaishi hut and aim for the summit of Mt. Akaishi from the next morning. **Day 2** was about a 3-4 hour climb from Akaishi Hut to the summit. Once you reach the summit, you will be able to see the beautiful mountain range of the Southern Alps, and especially on clear days, you will be able to enjoy a wide panoramic view of the Northern Alps, Mt. Fuji, and Mt. Yatsugatake. Afterwards, it is common to return to Akaishi Hut or descend the mountain using another traverse route. #### Access: - Approximately 2 hours by car from Shin-Tomei Expressway "Shin-Shizuoka IC" to "Hatanagi Daiichi Dam Parking Lot" - Use a dedicated shuttle bus from Hatanagi Dam to the trailhead, Sawarajima (operates only in summer) --- ### 2. **Traverse route with Mt. Hijiri** #### Recommended points: The route that traverses Mt. Akaishi and Mt. Hijiri is a route for experienced mountaineers who can enjoy the magnificent ridgeline of the Southern Alps. Although it requires a length of at least 3 nights and 4 days, it is a very attractive course that allows you to enjoy the main peak of the Southern Alps all at once. It is common for this route to first climb Mt. Hijiri and then aim for Mt. Akaishi. The walk from Mt. Hijiri to Mt. Akaishi is along a ridgeline, so please be aware that it is easily affected by the weather. However, if the weather is good, you can see the vast scenery far into the distance, and you can fully enjoy the beautiful mountain range of the Southern Alps. --- ## Points to note when climbing Mt. Akaishi Mt. Akaishi is a high mountain over 3,000 meters above sea level and requires a long climb, so be sure to pay attention to the following points when preparing. 1. **Prevention of altitude sickness** Since the altitude is over 3,000 meters, there is a risk of altitude sickness. If you climb at a particularly rapid pace, you are more likely to experience symptoms of altitude sickness, so it is important to keep a slow pace and take frequent breaks. 2. **Changes in weather** The weather in the Southern Alps can change easily, and the wind can get particularly strong when walking along the ridges. Be sure to carry cold weather gear and rain gear to prepare for sudden changes in weather. Also, it is important to check the weather forecast before climbing and make a reasonable plan. 3. **Preparation of climbing equipment** Since the traverse of Mt. Akaishi requires at least two nights, proper equipment is required. Bring lightweight, waterproof hiking shoes, plenty of water, active food, and warm clothing. Also, if you need to reserve a mountain hut or plan to stay in a tent, it is important to check in advance. --- ## Summary: Experience the great nature of the Southern Alps at Mt. Akaishi Mt. Akaishi is a famous peak where you can experience the magnificent nature of the Southern Alps, and the sense of accomplishment and spectacular view from the top will be a special memory for climbers. Although it requires a long traverse and requires physical strength and preparation, it is an attractive climbing route that allows you to enjoy the mountains of the Southern Alps all at once. Please prepare well, take safety measures, and enjoy a wonderful mountain climbing experience on Mt. Akaishi.

We started at Sawarajima and stayed at Akaishi hut, and climbed Mt. Akaishi on the second day. It's quite a climb, but I don't think there are any dangerous spots. Mt. Akaishi, which is located after Mt. Koakaishi at the start of the mountain hut, gradually appears as you climb. Although it was late this time, it seems that there will be a flower garden on the way. Once you reach the fork in the ridge, you can take a breather. It seems that there are many people who leave their luggage here. The view of the Arakawa Sanzan from the Akaishi-dake side was beautiful. The view from the top of the mountain is good, but it's a small place, so I think it's best to take a break at the Akaishi Shelter, which is a little further down. There is also a skewered dango sign ahead, where you can take photos with Mt. Fuji in the background and eat lunch while looking at it. This time I was able to meet a stoat. After this, we headed to Arakawa Hut.

The climb from Akashi Hut was difficult. I thought I would be heartbroken in the morning, but I was so moved by the view when I arrived. You can see Mt. Fuji and the mountains of the Southern Alps. After all, this 3,000 meter ridge line is just too pleasant. I also met a thunderbird. I was relieved of my fatigue by seeing her cute appearance.

I was able to reach the summit after trying three times between May and July of this year. For my first try in May, I started from Shibazawa Gate via Mt. Hijiri with the goal of returning on a day trip, regardless of how fast I was, but I decided that my stamina would not last due to lack of training. I returned from Mt. Due to heavy rain, we changed our approach from the Torikura trailhead and were able to safely reach Mt. Akaishi on our second try. I felt an indescribable feeling. The Southern Alps was an irreplaceable place that stimulated something in each person.