Mt.Amida - Mt. Akadake, South Yatsugatake

Date: March 24th

Route: Minodo - Amidadake North Ridge - Akadake Main Ridge - Minamisawa Small Fall - Minodo

Member: Takumi Suzuki, Taizan Yamamoto

We spent the previous night in our car at the roadside station Koubuchizawa, waking up at 2 o'clock to head to the Yatsugatake mountain lodge. Our trek commenced from the Minodo trailhead around 3:45 am. Traveling light for a day trip, we were unencumbered.

By 6 o'clock, we reached the Gyoja hut via Minamisawa. The hut was bustling with activity, prompting us to take our time preparing, stowing unnecessary gear, and setting off for Mt. Amida at 6:30 am. The trail was well-marked, facilitating smooth progress. Despite encountering numerous groups along the north ridge, we navigated skillfully, avoiding congestion and reaching the rocky summit unscathed. Climbing the North Ridge for the first time since December 2017 evoked nostalgia, reaffirming its allure.

Following a brief respite, we descended from Nakadake to Bunzaburo ridge, then ascended to the base of Akadake's main ridge. Anticipating delays from a slower-moving party ahead, we opted for a detour, ascending to the main ridge. By 10:45 am, we triumphantly reached the summit, celebrating the accomplishment with heartfelt embraces.

After a short interlude, we traversed the Jizo ridge towards Gyoja hut, en route to Minamisawa Small Fall. The small waterfall was a hive of activity, with rope climbers departing en masse after 1:00 pm. Seizing the tranquility that ensued, I indulged in two free solo climbs, relishing the last ice climbs of the season despite the late March date. Descending leisurely, we arrived at Minodo around 3:00 pm, indulging in a hearty meal at Yatsugatake Lodge after a gratifying day of adventure.