Mount Iwasuge: One of the Finest Peaks of the Ichinose Area
Standing at 2,295 meters, Mount Iwasuge is one of Shiga Kogen’s representative peaks and has been selected as one of Japan’s 200 Famous Mountains. From its beautiful ridgeline, hikers can take in a sweeping panorama of Shiga Kogen below, and on clear days, enjoy magnificent views stretching all the way to the Northern Alps. Its appeal changes with the seasons: in summer, delicate alpine flowers bloom across the green mountainsides, while in autumn, vivid foliage colors the entire mountain in breathtaking shades. Nearby rises Mount Ura-Iwasuge, the highest peak in Shiga Kogen at 2,341 meters. Together, these peaks offer dynamic ridgeline walking that continues to attract hikers throughout the year.
Keeping the Trail Safe and Comfortable: Brush-Clearing Work
To help visitors enjoy this beautiful mountain safely and comfortably, the Ichinose area carries out trail maintenance every year in late June. This year as well, before the full summer hiking season begins, members of the ryokan association conducted brush-clearing work along the trail.
At 8:30 a.m., despite rainy weather, the team set out from the Hijiridaira Trailhead. Their route took them via Araitazawa toward the junction known as Nokkiri, located just before the summit. Carrying heavy brush cutters on their backs, the staff climbed the steep, rain-soaked trail for about two and a half hours. By the time they reached Nokkiri, the weather had cleared as if the earlier rain had never happened, and the beautiful summit revealed itself.
Securing Visibility While Caring for Alpine Plants
This is where the real work began. As the team descended, they carefully cut back the lush bamboo grass that had grown out along the sides of the trail. The work was not simply about cutting vegetation. They also paid attention to creating enough space for hikers to pass one another and improving visibility along the trail. At the same time, they proceeded carefully to protect the precious alpine plants that are among Mount Iwasuge’s natural treasures.
By early afternoon, all the work had been completed safely. The thick bamboo grass had been neatly cleared, and the trail was transformed into a more open, easy-to-walk route where hikers can feel secure.
Mount Iwasuge Is Ready and Waiting for You
Mount Iwasuge is once again ready to welcome hikers for the summer season. Take just one step onto the trail, and you will find a grand natural panorama and delicate alpine flowers waiting for you. This summer, we warmly invite you to visit Mount Iwasuge in Shiga Kogen.