What to know
Mount Hangetsuyama (also called Hangetsusan) sits at the southeastern edge of Lake Chuzenji. Hiking trails lead to the summit, where an observation deck offers sweeping views of Okunikko, including Lake Chuzenji and Mount Nantai. From mid-October to early November, the autumn foliage enhances the scenery, making it a popular spot for leaf peeping.
If you prefer not to hike the entire mountain, you can take a bus, taxi, or rental car up the winding Chuzenjiko Skyline road. This road ends at a parking lot about three-quarters of the way up. From there, a steep nature trail takes about 30 minutes to reach the observation deck near the summit. Proper hiking shoes are recommended.
The Chuzenjiko Skyline was originally a toll road built for tourism and is now free to use. Along the way, you'll pass the Chuzenjiko Observation Deck, which offers a different perspective of Lake Chuzenji. This roadside viewpoint is easier to access but has slightly less unobstructed views. The road is closed from late November to mid-April due to winter conditions.
Buses run between Chuzenji Onsen and Hangetsuyama only in October and early November (20 minutes, 710 yen one way, every 2 hours). From the final bus stop, it's about a 30-minute hike to the summit. If you don't want to hike, get off one stop earlier at Chuzenji Tenbodai bus stop, right next to the Chuzenjiko Observation Deck.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Closed
- Admission
- English name
- Original name
- Mount Hangetsuyama
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