Plizio Visual Lab

Mount Ontake

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Mount Ontake, or Ontake-san, is the second-highest volcano in Japan, standing at 3,067 meters on the border of Gifu and Nagano Prefectures. As a massive stratovolcano, it features five crater lakes, with Sano-ike being particularly famous for its striking emerald-green water. The mountain has been revered as a sacred site for centuries, serving as the spiritual center for the Ontake-Kyo religious sect, which involves ritual ascents and pilgrimages. Geologically, Mount Ontake remains highly active; a sudden phreatic eruption in September 2014 resulted in the deadliest volcanic event in modern Japanese history, claiming 63 lives. Despite this tragedy, the mountain remains a significant site for both spiritual practice and alpine recreation, with strict monitoring systems now in place. The slopes transition from dense coniferous forests to barren volcanic landscapes at higher altitudes, providing a home for diverse alpine species. In winter, the mountain’s base hosts several premier ski resorts, while summer attracts hikers drawn to its rugged beauty and historical significance. The summit features sweeping panoramic views of the Central Alps and, on exceptionally clear days, the silhouette of Mount Fuji in the distance.

Location: Japan
Top sights: Mount Ontake · Makuiwa · Kongo-Do
Nearby: Gero Onsen (27 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-6	-5	-1	6	12	16	20	21	17	11	4	-2
Rain mm	100	86	114	121	128	159	234	158	185	159	103	116

📋 Practical info

🧭

Getting there

Reaching Mount Ontake typically involves taking local buses to established trailheads, as private vehicles face strict summer bans in this region.

📅

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.

⛰️

Terrain & paths

Hikers must navigate extremely steep, rocky ascents and exposed, narrow ridgelines that demand outstanding physical endurance and surefootedness.

🎒

What to bring

Essential equipment includes sturdy mountaineering boots, robust rainwear, multiple thermal layers, a headlamp, and printed navigation maps.

🅿️

Parking

Designated public parking is mostly located in lower base towns far from the summit, and spaces fill up remarkably quickly on summer weekends.

⚠️

Safety

Unpredictable thunderstorms, blinding fog, and sudden temperature drops pose immense risks, making it vital to monitor weather forecasts constantly.

⏱️

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

35.89000, 137.48000

Facts

Mount Ontake stands at 3,067 meters, the second highest volcano in Japan.
The mountain features 5 crater lakes, including Ni-no-ike at 2,905 meters.
The 2014 eruption was the deadliest in Japan since the 1926 Tokachi eruption.
It is considered one of the three most sacred mountains for Shinto practitioners.
The mountain is located roughly 100 kilometers northeast of Nagoya.
The volcanic complex covers an area of approximately 15 by 30 kilometers.