Amazing trip report and photos! This is on my list of places to visit and summits. Would you mind sharing your prep you did for the trip, acclimation (if any), route/maps and planning logistic info? I would like to make a plan for it in the next two years. My email is kamehana@gmail.com
Thank you in advance! Looks like a trip of a lifetime filled with adventure and spirit.
Sure, KamehanaKato.
As you get closer, feel free to send me a note;
Assuming you won't be driving, do your research with transportation options. The bus or train could be best depending on where you are staying and what route you plan to do. Most of the buses depart from Shinjuku station.
Plan what kind of trip you want (day hike or overnighter, since this will dictate when to get to the trailhead and which transportation options are available). ie bus options start only after 8 or 9Am, precluding one day ascents.
while it "only" 12,388ft, chances are you'll be coming from sea level the day before after a long flight, so this will make it seem harder with the lack of acclimatizing, jetlag, etc.
If you want to stay in a hut, book them well before you plan to go. Same with bus service from Tokyo.
Avoid mid August as thats a national holiday with a LOT of people traveling all over the place.
Bring poles or buy a stick or poles there.
Bring $20 worth of Yen coins on the mountain for restrooms, drinks, snacks, etc.
Prepare for bad weather. Like many mountains, on a nice day in the summer, this could be a real pleasant hike. Add in rain, whiteout and 40mph winds, not so much. Bring rain gear and waterproof sacks for stuff you don't want wet.
Reach the real summit - too many people turn around on the crater and don't go to the actual summit. There is a cool plaque, marker and shrines along the way, plus a great view of the crater as you circumnavigate it if the weather is clear!
