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Mount Kita

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Mountain
—°3
Mount Kita (Japan)

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Mount Kita, widely known as Kitadake, stands at 3,193 meters, making it the second-highest peak in Japan after Mount Fuji. Located in Yamanashi Prefecture, it serves as the centerpiece of the Akaishi Mountains, often referred to as the Southern Alps, within the Minami Alps National Park. The mountain is geologically distinct, composed primarily of Cretaceous sedimentary rock, which contributes to its rugged and steep topography. It is internationally renowned for its unique alpine flora, particularly the Kitadake-so, a rare flower endemic only to its slopes. The first recorded ascent in the modern era occurred in 1871, and since then, it has become a premier destination for serious mountaineers seeking technical challenges. From its summit, climbers are treated to an unobstructed and magnificent view of Mount Fuji, making it a favorite spot for photography and landscape observation. Mount Kita is also a vital site for ecological research, hosting several endangered species within its sensitive high-altitude environment.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-5-4051115192016104-2
Rain mm59721151301431712191561941838063

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Reaching Mount Kita typically involves taking local buses to established trailheads, as private vehicles face strict summer bans in this region.
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Best season
The main climbing period extends strictly from mid-July through September, when mountain huts operate normally and trails remain free of deep snow.
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Terrain & paths
Hikers must navigate extremely steep, rocky ascents and exposed, narrow ridgelines that demand outstanding physical endurance and surefootedness.
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What to bring
Essential equipment includes sturdy mountaineering boots, robust rainwear, multiple thermal layers, a headlamp, and printed navigation maps.
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Parking
Designated public parking is mostly located in lower base towns far from the summit, and spaces fill up remarkably quickly on summer weekends.
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Safety
Unpredictable thunderstorms, blinding fog, and sudden temperature drops pose immense risks, making it vital to monitor weather forecasts constantly.
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Time needed
Completing a safe round-trip journey consistently requires at least two full days, necessitating a confirmed overnight stay in an alpine lodge.

Geography

Coordinates
35.67000, 138.24000

Facts

  • At 3,193 meters, it is the highest non-volcanic mountain in Japan.
  • Mount Kita is the highest summit of the Akaishi Mountains range.
  • The endemic Kitadake-so flower is found only on this mountain's slopes.
  • The first recorded modern ascent was completed in 1871.
  • It is included in the list of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains.
  • The mountain provides a critical habitat for the Rock Ptarmigan bird.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Yatsugatake MountainsYatsugatake Mountains30 km · NWExplore →
Aokigahara ForestAokigahara Forest49 km · NExplore →
MatsumotoMatsumoto56 km · SWExplore →
Lake KawaguchiLake Kawaguchi59 km · NExplore →
ShizuokaShizuoka60 km · EExplore →
Mount FujiMount Fuji60 km · NEExplore →
Fuji-Q HighlandFuji-Q Highland62 km · NExplore →
Shizuoka Tea PlantationsShizuoka Tea Plantations65 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Mount Kita (3)

Mount Kannon🌿 nature

The highest peak of the Houou-zan massif in the Southern Alps, known for its rugged granite formations.

Mount Yakushi🌿 nature

One of the three distinctive peaks of Mount Houou, named after the Buddhist deity of healing.

Mount Hirogochi🌿 nature

A peak in the Southern Alps (Akaishi Mountains) on the border of Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How high is Mount Kita?
It is 3,193 meters high, making it the second tallest mountain in Japan after Mt. Fuji.
Where is Mount Kita located?
It is located in the Southern Japanese Alps (Akaishi Mountains) in Yamanashi Prefecture.
Is the climb difficult?
It requires good physical condition and hiking experience, but is technically feasible for mountain hikers.
When is the climbing season?
Mountain huts are usually open from late June to early November.
Are there places to stay on the mountain?
Yes, there are several mountain huts like Kitadake-Sanso that offer lodging and meals.
Mount Kita: where is it located?
Mount Kita is located in Japan.
Mount Kita: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mount Kannon, Mount Yakushi, Mount Hirogochi.
Mount Kita: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Mount Kita: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Kita, widely known as Kitadake, stands at 3,193 meters, making it the second-highest peak in Japan after Mount Fuji.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Lake Kawaguchi — Mount Kita (Japan)
Lake Kawaguchi
The most famous of the Fuji Five Lakes, offering iconic views of Mount Fuji and a wide range of outdoor activities.
Shizuoka — Mount Kita (Japan)
Shizuoka
The heart of Japanese tea production with breathtaking views of Mt.
Yaizu — Mount Kita (Japan)
Yaizu
A major port city in Shizuoka, famous for its tuna fishing, hot springs, and views of Mount Fuji.
Karuizawa — Mount Kita (Japan)
Karuizawa
An upscale mountain resort town famous for its cool climate, world-class shopping, and scenic hiking trails.

History & landmarks

Matsumoto — Mount Kita (Japan)
Matsumoto
Famous for Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's premier historic castles, also known as the 'Crow Castle' due to its black exterior.

More places

Yatsugatake Mountains — Mount Kita (Japan)
Yatsugatake Mountains
A volcanic mountain range straddling Nagano and Yamanashi Prefectures.
Aokigahara Forest — Mount Kita (Japan)
Aokigahara Forest
A forest at the northwest base of Mount Fuji, known for its dense trees and absence of wildlife.
Fuji-Q Highland — Mount Kita (Japan)
Fuji-Q Highland
An amusement park at the base of Mount Fuji, known for its record-breaking roller coasters and breathtaking views.
Mount Fuji — Mount Kita (Japan)
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan and an active volcano.
Shizuoka Tea Plantations — Mount Kita (Japan)
Shizuoka Tea Plantations
Shizuoka Prefecture is the largest producer of tea in Japan.
Kiso Valley — Mount Kita (Japan)
Kiso Valley
The Kiso Valley is known for its scenic post towns and the ancient Nakasendō trade route that runs through it.
Mount Asama — Mount Kita (Japan)
Mount Asama
One of the most active volcanoes in Honshū.
Tsumago-juku Post Town — Mount Kita (Japan)
Tsumago-juku Post Town
A well-preserved post town on the old Nakasendō trade route that connected Edo (Tokyo) to Kyoto.