Mount Aka

What it is

• A 2,416-meter mountain peak located on the Io Ridge in the Hida Mountains.
• A sharp and crumbling peak situated within Omachi City in Nagano Prefecture.
• A group of jagged summits known as the Aka-dake Gendarme.
• A geothermal site featuring active fumaroles around the 2,086-meter mark.

What to see

• Sharp and crumbling rock formations along the main mountain ridge.
• The distinct group of jagged peaks called the Aka-dake Gendarme.
• Active volcanic fumaroles emitting steam near the lower 2,086-meter peak.

When to go

• Winter months for experienced climbers attempting to traverse the Io Ridge.

Getting there

• Start the climb from Shinhotaka Onsen to reach the mountain area.
• Access the peak via Yumata Onsen and the Mizumata River routes.
• Approach the summit using variation routes as there are no established hiking trails.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.