Mizugaki Mountain and Honnotani River Gorge (Yamanashi Prefecture) Complete Guide | Autumn Leaves, Mountaineering, Access Information
Mizugaki Mountain (mizugakiyama) and Honnotani River Gorge, located in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, are natural treasures spread across the western edge of the Okuchichibu Mountains. With an elevation of 2,230m, Mizugaki Mountain is popular among mountaineers as one of Japan’s One Hundred Famous Mountains, and Honnotani River Gorge was certified as one of the “Heisei Selection of 100 Fine Waters” by the Ministry of the Environment in June 2008 as the “Kinpusan/Mizugaki Mountain Source.” The landscape woven together by white granite rock peaks, vibrant autumn foliage, and clear streams continues to captivate visitors throughout the four seasons.
Basic Information on Mizugaki Mountain and Honnotani River Gorge
Characteristics of Mizugaki Mountain
Mizugaki Mountain is an unusually-shaped mountain formed entirely of black mica granite. Among the Okuchichibu Mountains, it is a rare rocky mountain; while it appears calm when viewed from a distance, when seen from the western Kuromori settlement or around Fujimidaira, it reveals an impressive appearance with majestic rock peaks standing in a row.
A 360-degree panorama spreads from the summit, offering views of Mt. Fuji, the Southern Alps, Central Alps, and Northern Alps. Coniferous trees and broad-leaved trees interspersed with white birch harmonize with giant rocks illuminated by the sun, and the beauty is particularly exceptional during the autumn foliage season.
Charm of Honnotani River Gorge
Honnotani River originates from Kinpusan Mountain and is a clear stream that runs from east to west through Masutomi Radium Onsen Gorge to Mizugaki Lake (Shiokawa Dam Reservoir). The area including this gorge was certified as one of the Ministry of the Environment’s “Heisei Selection of 100 Fine Waters” as the “Kinpusan/Mizugaki Mountain Source,” with its water quality officially recognized.
Abundant vegetation spreads along the gorge, creating a beautiful landscape with autumn leaves coloring the clear stream. The gorge area upstream from Masutomi has particularly beautiful autumn foliage, reaching its peak from late October to early November.
Autumn Foliage Viewing Spots and Timing
Autumn Foliage of Mizugaki Mountain
The autumn foliage of Mizugaki Mountain’s greatest attraction is the contrast between white granite and colored trees. When the trees growing in the cracks of the mountain surface begin to color, the white rocky surface is painted with a vivid landscape of red and yellow autumn leaves.
Beginning to color: Early October
Peak season: Mid-October to late October
Being in the 2,000m-class alpine zone, autumn foliage begins earlier here than at lower elevations. While walking the trail, you can enjoy the gradient of autumn foliage changing with elevation, a characteristic charm of Mizugaki Mountain.
Autumn Foliage of Honnotani River Gorge
The autumn foliage of Honnotani River Gorge is beautiful with the combination of clear stream and autumn leaves, allowing you to enjoy the gorge scenery. There are many broad-leaved trees such as Mizunara, displaying a variety of colors from yellow to red.
Beginning to color: Early October
Peak season: Late October to early November
In the area around Masutomi Radium Onsen Gorge, you can enjoy autumn foliage while soaking in hot springs, and even those not mountaineering can fully enjoy autumn leaf viewing with ease.
Types of Autumn Foliage
Main autumn foliage tree species visible in the Mizugaki Mountain and Honnotani River Gorge area:
- Maples: Vibrant red
- Mizunara: Yellow-brown to tan
- White birch: Yellow (beautiful contrast with white bark)
- Beech: Yellow to orange
- Nana-kamaado: Deep crimson
- Dake birch: Yellow
The mixture of green coniferous trees and broad-leaved autumn foliage creates a more three-dimensional and colorful landscape.
Mizugaki Mountain Mountaineering Route Guide
Mizugakiyama Lodge Course (Most Popular Route)
Course Overview
- Trailhead: Mizugakiyama Lodge
- Round-trip time: Approximately 6 hours
- Elevation gain: Approximately 730m
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Route Details
- Mizugakiyama Lodge (elevation 1,520m) → Fujimidaira Lodge (approximately 50 minutes)
The hiking trail is surrounded by broad-leaved trees such as Mizunara. The pleasant section along Fudousawa’s clear stream.
- Fujimidaira Lodge → Fudou Waterfall (approximately 15 minutes)
A short distance beyond Fujimidaira Lodge, Fudou Waterfall appears. While not of great height, it is a beautiful waterfall flowing down the rocky surface.
- Fujimidaira Lodge → Tentorigo Fork (approximately 40 minutes)
The slope gradually increases. As you emerge from the coniferous forest zone, the view opens up.
- Tentorigo Fork → Oyasuri Rock (approximately 40 minutes)
Rocky terrain becomes abundant with chain sections appearing. Oyasuri Rock, a giant boulder symbolizing Mizugaki Mountain, overwhelms with its impressive scale.
- Oyasuri Rock → Summit (approximately 30 minutes)
Climb the rocky terrain carefully. Finally, ascend the chain section to reach the summit. A 360-degree spectacular view unfolds from the summit.
Mountaineering Precautions
- Rocky terrain measures: Since Mizugaki Mountain has many granite rocky sections, hiking boots with good grip are essential.
- Chain sections: Multiple chain sections exist. Keep three-point contact in mind and proceed carefully.
- Weather: Due to high elevation, weather changes rapidly, and thunderstorms are a particular concern in the afternoon.
- Equipment: Helmet use is recommended. There are areas with risk of falling rocks.
- Water sources: There is a water source near Fujimidaira Lodge, but no water sources up to the summit, so carry sufficient drinking water.
Azalea Flowers in Early Summer
Mizugaki Mountain is famous not only for autumn foliage but also for the Azuma azalea (Azalea) clusters in early summer. From early to mid-June, beautiful pink flowers color the mountain surface. The contrast between the white granite rocks and the pink azaleas offers a different beauty from autumn foliage.
Honnotani River Gorge Sightseeing Spots
Mizugaki Lake Visitor Center
Located on the shores of Mizugaki Lake (Shiokawa Dam Reservoir), the Visitor Center is a facility where you can learn about the nature and history of the Mizugaki Mountain and Honnotani River Gorge area. You can obtain mountaineering information and natural information for the surrounding area, and through exhibits, deepen your understanding of the nature of Okuchichibu.
During the autumn foliage season, the area around Mizugaki Lake is also beautifully colored, and the autumn leaves reflected on the lake surface create a spectacular sight.
Masutomi Radium Onsen Gorge
Scattered along Honnotani River Gorge, Masutomi Radium Onsen Gorge is a hot spring area said to have the world’s top radium content. It is ideal for easing fatigue after mountaineering, with several hot spring inns operating.
Day-use hot spring facilities
- Masutomi no Yu: A public hot spring facility with day-use bathing available. With indoor and outdoor baths, you can enjoy the hot springs while taking in the natural scenery of the gorge.
The luxurious experience of soaking in hot springs while viewing autumn foliage is a unique way to enjoy the Mizugaki Mountain and Honnotani River Gorge area.
Fudou Waterfall
Located on the Mizugaki Mountain mountaineering route, Fudou Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall flowing down granite rock surfaces. It can be visited in about 30 minutes round-trip from Fujimidaira Lodge, making it relatively accessible even for those not mountaineering.
While beautiful in the new green season, the waterfall surrounded by colored trees during the autumn foliage season is particularly exceptional.
Access Information
Access by Car
From Tokyo area
- Approximately 40 minutes from Suyama IC on the Chuo Expressway
- Approximately 40 minutes from Nagasaka IC on the Chuo Expressway
From Nagano Prefecture area
- Approximately 60 minutes from Yachiho Kogen IC on the Chubu Crossway
Navigation Settings
- When heading to Mizugakiyama Lodge: “Mizugakiyama Lodge” or “8862 Obi, Sutama Town, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture”
- Mizugaki Lake Visitor Center: “Mizugaki Lake Visitor Center”
Access by Public Transportation
Using JR
- Get off at Nirasaki Station on the JR Chuo Main Line
- From Nirasaki Station, board the Yamanashi Kotsu Bus heading to “Mizugaki Sanso” (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)
- Get off at the final stop “Mizugaki Sanso”
Cautions
- Bus service is limited, particularly on weekdays with infrequent service, so please check the schedule in advance.
- Service may be increased during the autumn foliage season and on weekends, but seats may be full, so early boarding is recommended.
Parking Information
Mizugakiyama Lodge Parking
- Capacity: Approximately 100 spaces
- Fee: Free parking
- Hours: 24 hours
- Congestion: On weekends and holidays during the autumn foliage season, the lot fills up early in the morning. Arrival by 6 AM is recommended.
Mizugaki Lake Visitor Center Parking
- Capacity: Approximately 30 spaces
- Fee: Free parking
- Hours: Follow facility operating hours
Expected Congestion Times
Autumn Foliage Season (Mid-October to Early November)
- The parking lot is likely to fill up after 7 AM on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays
- Particularly crowded during late October three-day holidays
- Weekdays may also be congested on clear days
Recommended Visiting Times
- Early morning (5 AM to 6 AM) arrival is ideal
- Weekday visits
- Before and after the autumn foliage season (early October, mid-November) are relatively less crowded
Nearby Accommodation Facilities
Mountain Lodges
Fujimidaira Lodge
- Located midway between Mizugaki Mountain and Kinpusan Mountain
- Accommodation available (reservation required)
- Tent site available
- Early morning climbing start allows for enjoying the mountain at leisure
Mizugakiyama Lodge
- Located at the trailhead
- Accommodation and meals available (reservation required)
- Convenient for use before and after mountaineering
Hot Spring Inns
Inns at Masutomi Radium Onsen Gorge
Multiple hot spring inns operate, each offering different spring qualities and atmospheres.
- Fukurojaku: Historic hot spring inn
- Tenjin no Yu: Day-use bathing also available
- Kinsen-kaku: Can enjoy hot springs in a quiet environment
Reservations become difficult during the autumn foliage season, so early booking is recommended.
Accommodation in Hokuto City
Around Nirasaki Station and within Hokuto City, there are numerous business hotels, private inns, and pensions. For those able to access by car, using these facilities and heading to the trailhead early in the morning is also a good option.
Seasonal Enjoyment
Spring (April to May)
Snow melts and new greenery becomes beautiful. Snow may still remain, so care is needed with mountaineering equipment. Around Fujimidaira Lodge, Mitsuba azaleas bloom, and you can feel the arrival of spring.
Early Summer (June to July)
Peak season for Azuma azaleas. The pink azaleas blooming on the rocky areas of Mizugaki Mountain are spectacular, attracting many mountaineers. In Honnotani River Gorge, early summer foliage is at its most beautiful, and you can enjoy a refreshing hike with the babbling of the clear stream.
Summer (August to September)
The high elevation makes mountaineering relatively cool and comfortable even in summer. However, afternoon thunderstorms tend to occur, so plan for early departure and early descent. Splashing in Honnotani River or cooling off at Masutomi Radium Onsen is also recommended.
Autumn (October to November)
Peak season for autumn foliage. The contrast between Mizugaki Mountain’s white granite and autumn leaves, and the autumn foliage coloring the clear stream of Honnotani River is most beautiful in this season. Clear air provides exceptional views from the summit.
Winter (December to March)
Mountaineering during snow season requires winter mountaineering equipment such as crampons and ice axes. It is a season for experienced mountaineers, but snow-covered Mizugaki Mountain’s rocky peaks have a fantastical beauty. Ice waterfalls may be seen in Honnotani River Gorge.
Nature and Environmental Protection
Heisei Selection of 100 Fine Waters
“Kinpusan/Mizugaki Mountain Source” was certified as one of the Ministry of the Environment’s “Heisei Selection of 100 Fine Waters” in June 2008. This certification evaluates not only water quality but also water environmental conservation activities by local residents.
The clear stream of Honnotani River originates from Kinpusan Mountain and is nurtured by abundant forests, maintaining high water quality through natural filtration. To preserve this beautiful water environment, be sure to take all trash with you when visiting.
Mountaineering Etiquette and Environmental Protection
Always take trash with you
Everything you bring must be taken with you. Even food scraps and fruit peels take time to return to nature, so be sure to take them with you.
Stay on the designated trail
To protect vegetation, do not walk off the designated hiking trail. Special care is needed in places where alpine plants bloom.
Toilet issues
When using mountain lodge toilets, pay the cooperation fee. Use of portable toilets is also recommended.
Distance from wildlife
Do not feed wild animals. Human food harms wildlife health and disturbs the ecosystem.
Surrounding Tourist Attractions
Kinpusan Mountain (Kinpusan)
An elevation of 2,599m and one of Japan’s One Hundred Famous Mountains, located east of Mizugaki Mountain. The summit has a giant rock called Gojaku Iwa and is known as a sacred mountain. Many mountaineers traverse Mizugaki Mountain and Kinpusan together.
Kiyosato Highland
About 30 minutes by car from Kiyosato Highland is a popular highland resort. Seisenryo’s soft-serve ice cream is famous, and you can also enjoy views of the Yatsugatake and Southern Alps.
Tokkyu Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall in the Kawamata River Gorge in the Kiyosato area. Multiple waterfalls form a chain, and it got its name from the appearance of flowing down the rocky surface like a dragon. New green and autumn foliage seasons are particularly beautiful.
Suntory Hakushu Distillery and Suntory Natural Water Southern Alps Hakushu Plant
Located in Hakushu Town, Hokuto City, this whiskey distillery and natural water plant. Guided tours explain the production process, and tastings are available (reservation required). You can experience the source of Southern Alps natural water.
Hokuto City Tourism Association and Tourist Information
The Hokuto City Tourism Association provides tourist information for the entire Hokuto City area, including the Mizugaki Mountain and Honnotani River Gorge area. You can obtain the latest mountaineering trail information, autumn foliage information, and event information, so it is recommended to check before your visit.
Information provided by Hokuto City Tourism Association
- Mountaineering trail conditions (road closure information, etc.)
- Autumn foliage coloring status (regularly updated during the season)
- Surrounding facility operating information
- Event information
- Accommodation facility guide
Information is disseminated through official websites and SNS, so be sure to check before departure.
Photography Spots and Best Times
Photography Spots on Mizugaki Mountain
Oyasuri Rock
A giant granite rock symbolizing Mizugaki Mountain. Morning sidelighting is ideal for photography. During the autumn foliage season, the combination of rock and autumn leaves is spectacular.
Summit
360-degree panorama can be photographed. Particularly beautiful are the morning sea of clouds and the sunset over the Southern Alps in the evening.
Fujimidaira Lodge area
A point where the entire Mizugaki Mountain can be photographed. The morning sun-lit Mizugaki Mountain’s rocky peaks are enchanting.
Photography Spots in Honnotani River Gorge
Area around Masutomi Radium Onsen Gorge
Beautiful combination of gorge and autumn foliage, and photographing the flow of the clear stream with long-exposure is also recommended.
Mizugaki Lake
The reflection of autumn foliage on the lake surface can be photographed. Early morning with no wind is the best opportunity.
Fudou Waterfall
The waterfall flowing down the rocky surface and surrounding autumn foliage are picturesque. Using an ND filter for long-exposure photography to express water flow is effective.
Best Times for Photography
- Sunrise: 6 AM to 7 AM (autumn season)
- Autumn foliage color most vivid: 10 AM to 2 PM (sidelighting)
- Evening scene: 4 PM to 5 PM (autumn season)
In autumn foliage photography, soft overcast light also captures colors beautifully without saturation. Wet autumn foliage after rain appears in deeper colors, making it a promising target.
For Safe Mountaineering
Submission of Mountaineering Plan
Always submit a mountaineering plan (mountaineering notification). Online submission is also possible. This information is essential for search and rescue operations in case of emergency.
Equipment Checklist
Essential equipment
- Hiking boots (with good grip)
- Rain gear (separate top and bottom)
- Headlamp (including spare batteries)
- Map and compass (GPS apps are also effective)
- Sufficient drinking water and trail food
- First aid kit
- Winter clothing (necessary even in summer due to high elevation)
Recommended equipment
- Helmet (falling rock protection)
- Trekking poles
- Gloves (injury prevention on rocky terrain)
- Portable toilet
Weather Confirmation
Mountain weather changes rapidly, so check multiple weather forecast sites. Pay particular attention to:
- Cancel or postpone mountaineering if thunderstorm is forecasted
- Same for strong wind warnings
- During the autumn foliage season, prepare thoroughly for cold mornings and evenings
Emergency Contact Numbers
- Police (mountain rescue): 110
- Fire Department (emergency): 119
- Hokuto City Hall: 0551-42-1111
Cell phone signal quality varies by location. The summit area has relatively good coverage, but valleys may be out of service.
Conclusion
The Mizugaki Mountain and Honnotani River Gorge area is a natural treasure boasting three attractions: mountaineering of a Japanese One Hundred Famous Mountain, a clear stream certified as one of the Heisei Selection of 100 Fine Waters, and world-class radium hot springs.
The beauty during the autumn foliage season is particularly exceptional. The contrast between white granite rock peaks and vivid autumn foliage, and autumn leaves coloring the clear stream create a landscape that, once seen, will not be forgotten. Popular with not only mountaineers but also tourists enjoying gorge walks and hot springs, each style of enjoying nature is possible.
Access is convenient by car, but visiting by public transportation is also possible. However, weekends during the autumn foliage season are extremely crowded, so plan for early arrival or consider a weekday visit.
Mizugaki Mountain mountaineering is intermediate level with rocky and chain sections, but with appropriate equipment and preparation, a wonderful mountaineering experience can be had. Even for those not mountaineering, gorge walks, Masutomi Radium Onsen, and nature around Mizugaki Lake can be enjoyed, making it an area suitable for a wide range of visitors.
While the Mizugaki Mountain and Honnotani River Gorge area has appeal throughout the four seasons, mid-October to early November, the autumn foliage season, is particularly the most beautiful time. Please visit to experience this wonderful natural landscape. You should be able to have an experience that cleanses the heart with the grandeur and beauty of nature.
