Mount Norikura (乗鞍岳, Norikura-dake) is third highest Volcano after Mount Fuji and Mount Ontake. Norikura in Kanji translate as Mounting Saddle , and at 3025m and highly accessible, the route up Norikura-dake is renown for its early Autumn colours starting mid September. Norikura resides in the Hida Mountains, the northern range of the Japanese Alps. The area is filled with scenic nature and mesmerizing Onsen (hot-spring) like Hirayu Onsen (平湯溫泉) and Shirohone Onsen (白骨温泉 ). The famous Kamikochi (上高地) National Park is also in the vicinity, albeit less scenic than Norikura in terms of colours. Norikurakogen (Norikura Highland) is a transport hub for Mount Norikura; it is also a renowned ski resort in the winter. The bus ride up takes 75 minutes, but many Japanese cyclists brave the arduous route up. This series present the magnificent early autumn colours at Norikura, a gem of the Japanese Alps.
From Norikurakogen towards Mount Norikura, magnificent autumn colours.
Norikura early autumn view and overlooking the Hida Moutain (飛騨山脈), the Japanese Northern Alps.
At a plateau close to the base of Norikura-dake, early autumn foilage clading the twisty mountain road.
Nearing the Norikura peak, emerging vivid colours in late September.
The bus ride up takes 75 minutes, but many Japanese cyclists brave the arduous route up. Some cyclist come equipped with Oxygen canister.
The youth hostel at Norikurakogen, tugged into a valley below the ski resort, and about 20 mins walk from the nearest bus station.
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© 2026 Kim Lau
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