Mt. Myoko stands at 2,454m and is surrounded by a wealth of natural hot springs. The mountain is opened on July 1 every year and from summer through to autumn it is visited by many climbers and trekkers. Its dynamic form and landscape have resulted in it being chosen as one of Japan’s 100 famous mountains. From the summit of this composite volcano with large rocks scattered here and there you can look down on Lake Nojiri and enjoy 360-degree views. Mt. Myoko is also known as Shumisen, after the sacred Mt. Meru of Buddhist cosmology that is said to stand at the centre of Buddhist teachings. It is also known as the “Mt. Fuji of Echigo.”

Along the mountains of the Myoko range if the weather takes a turn for the worse it is not unusual for snow or sleet to fall even in midsummer, making it a challenging mountain range equivalent to higher mountains of 3,000m or more. For beginners and experts alike it is best to make a climbing plan that is not too strenuous and matches the capabilities and physical strength of all members of your climbing party. Mt. Myoko is also classed as an active volcano, so don’t forget to submit a mountain climbing notification before you set off.