Central Alps Komagatake Ropeway

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The Komagatake Ropeway was the first mountain ropeway built in Japan and features Japan’s largest elevation gain(950m) and Japan’s highest terminal station (2,612m). Once you step on the gondola, only 7.5min will take you to Senjojiki Cirque directly below Mt. Hokendake (2,931m). Senjojiki Cirque was formed over millennia by glacial activity, creating the natural amphitheater we see today.

Spring

The ropeway is open year-round to experience the changing seasons. In Spring, Senjojiki Cirque still has snow left over. During April and May, over 2metres of snow covers a large open area, and the entire cirque appears like one huge, expansive ski slope. You can enjoy dynamic skiing and snowboarding there. If you wear snow shoes, you can enjoy walking on the snow field. Approaching the cirque, you can further appreciate its magnificent appearance and scale.

Summer

In summer, its verdant green grasses are dotted with rare alpine flowers. It is the best season to try a mountain climbing. The mountain climbing trail for the peak of the 2,956-meter-tall Mt. Kiso Komagatake, the highest peak in the Central Alps, is not overly physically demanding thanks to the Komagatake Ropeway. This makes it possible for not only experienced mountain climbers but beginners to try their hand at mountain climbing. It is recommended even for beginners as a half-day hike.

Autumn

In autumn, the mountains are covered in vivid reds, yellows, and oranges. From September through late October, the leaves are changing the colors from top of the mountains down to the foothills. This season is a popular time of year for hikers to visit and enjoy the luxurious, colorful scenery as they make their way to Senjojiki.

Winter

In winter, it freezes in time - even the air glitters with frozen particles called ‘diamond dust.’ However, the high number of days of sunlight and crisp mountain air provide the perfect conditions for creating amazing views of the Southern Alps. If you find it too cold, you can stop for a drink at Senjojiki’s 2612 Café, which offers fantastic views of the Southern Japanese Alps.