08/07/2026
Easing of Trail Restrictions Past Otakiguchi Route (2026 Season)
Great news for hikers planning to climb Mt. Ontake! Starting from 9:00 AM on Friday, July 10, 2026, restrictions on key trails will be eased, allowing hikers to pass through to the summit and the Kurosawaguchi side.
■ Eased Trail Sections
■ Otaki Summit – Hachochoradarumi – Kengamine Summit Trail
■ Otaki Summit – Kurosawaguchi / Kurosawa Crossroad (Ninoike Traverse) Trail
■ Period: From 9:00 AM on Friday, July 10, 2026, to 12:00 PM (Noon) on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. *The trails will be accessible 24 hours a day during this period. (Please note: Trails may close without notice due to bad weather.)
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⚠️ IMPORTANT: Please Check Weekday Bus Schedules! ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
We have received many inquiries from visitors who did not realize that buses to the trailheads do not run every day on weekdays. Please review the schedules carefully before planning your trip!
🚌 Tanohara Line (To Otakiguchi / Tanohara)
Operating Dates: Saturdays, Sundays, and National Holidays ONLY from July 4 (Sat) to October 18 (Sun), 2026.
💡 Exception (Weekday Service): Buses will exceptionally run on weekdays from August 3 (Mon) to August 7 (Fri), and on August 10 (Mon).
🛑 Note: Except for the special holiday period above, there is NO public bus service to Tanohara on weekdays.
🚌 Ontake Ropeway Line (To Kurosawaguchi)
Operating Dates: This bus DOES NOT run on weekdays between July 1 and July 10.
📅 Daily weekday service starts from Monday, July 13.
⛰️ Safety Reminder Mt. Ontake is an active volcano and a high-altitude peak over 3,000 meters, where weather conditions can change rapidly.
Have you prepared your mountaineering helmet?
Advance reservations are required for the mountain cabin!
Please double-check your transportation, pack full proper gear, check the latest updates, and ensure a flexible schedule for a safe and wonderful hike. We look forward to welcoming you to the Kiso Valley!