Mount Tanigawa

What to know

Mount Tanigawa (谷川岳, Tanigawadake) is a rugged peak straddling the border of Gunma and Niigata prefectures in northern Minakami. At 1,977 meters, it receives deep, powdery snow in winter, which feeds the clear Tone River when it melts in spring. Mid-October brings stunning autumn foliage to the surrounding valleys.

As one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains, Tanigawa attracts hikers and climbers to its challenging slopes. While off-trail climbing is for experienced, well-equipped adventurers, casual hikers can enjoy easier trails or take the Tanigawadake Ropeway for panoramic views without the effort.

The hiking season runs from July to November, depending on snow conditions. From the base, you can ride the ropeway or hike 2.5 hours to the upper station, then another two hours to the summit. From there, either return or continue six hours into Niigata.

In winter, the Tanigawa Ropeway serves the Tanigawadake Tenjindaira ski resort, a small area with four chairlifts but some of Japan's deepest snow and longest seasons—from mid-November through May in good years.

A bus runs from Minakami Station to the ropeway lower station about once per hour (20 minutes, 900 yen one way). Alternatively, take an infrequent train to Doai Station (8 minutes, 260 yen one way), whose northbound platform is deep in a tunnel. Climb 20 minutes of stairs to daylight, then walk 20-30 minutes uphill to the ropeway.