【Central Japan · Kyushu · Shikoku】Japan's 100 Famous Mountains Peak Journey Online Talk

On last December's two tours of the Japan's 100 Famous Mountains Peak Journey, some travellers were actually hiking for the very first time; winter ascents come with certain challenges, but after the trip, they said they wanted to keep going.

Mountaineering is like this: even when the trail tires you out, you're still healed by the scenery along the way, you find strength in your fellow companions, and you're moved by the moment you reach the summit.

This year, DeWonder and OutsiderzEX are continuing the Japan's 100 Famous Mountains Peak Journey series, taking everyone to climb in Central Japan, Kyushu and Shikoku. The three routes vary in difficulty, featuring highland, volcanic and alpine landscapes respectively, and set off at different times to take in Japan's distinct four seasons—making every tour a one-of-a-kind experience. The whole journey is led by OutsiderzEX's seasoned mountain guides, with professional photography included; one or two nights will also be spent at hot-spring inns with one-night-two-meals stays, offering a little rest along the way.

On Thursday 20 March, we'll be holding an online talk to explain in detail the highlights of the itineraries we've designed, the scenery en route, the gear you'll need, points to note and more. We'll also answer everyone's queries and frequently asked questions one by one. Anyone interested is welcome to join and hear us talk about Japan's mountains 🌄

🗓️ Date: 20 March (Thursday)

⏰ Time: 20:30 - 21:30

🌐 Format: Zoom online meeting

🎙️ Speaker: OutsiderzEX

📍 Central Japan – Takayama, Matsumoto

🏔 Kamikochi, Kirigamine Kurumayama, Utsukushigahara Highland Ohanabana

A route friendly to newcomers and beginners, with relatively gentle terrain. We'll first head to Kamikochi, walking along the stream and immersing ourselves in tranquil forest valleys; then to Kirigamine Kurumayama to stroll amid a sea of clouds; and finally summit Ohanabana at the Utsukushigahara Highland to enjoy sweeping highland views—taking in the scenery of the Japanese Alps throughout the journey. April is a warm season when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, while the winter woodlands in December reveal a landscape blanketed in silvery snow.

📍 Kyushu – Kagoshima, Kirishima, Sakurajima

🏔 Karakunidake, Takachihonomine, Kaimondake

An intermediate route, suitable for those who hike occasionally and have some basics. Kyushu's mountains are famous for their volcanoes; we'll head to Karakunidake to look down upon the rich layers of the crater lake; Takachihonomine, home to the myth of the Heavenly Grandson's descent; as well as Kaimondake, which earns the name "Satsuma Fuji" for its conical shape. We'll go in May to catch the tail end of the spring blossom viewing; in November we'll enjoy golden-red maple leaves and ginkgo.

📍 Shikoku – Takamatsu, Matsuyama

🏔 Tsurugisan, Ishizuchisan

A high-difficulty route requiring extensive mountaineering experience; Tsurugisan and Ishizuchisan are Shikoku's only two of the 100 Famous Mountains, and are also the second- and first-highest peaks in western Japan respectively. Tsurugisan's summit features a vast grassland, and on clear days you can take in views of the Pacific Ocean, the Seto Inland Sea and the Kii Peninsula. On this trip we'll also stay in a summit hut, spending a night beneath the stars; Ishizuchisan is listed among the "Seven Sacred Mountains of Japan," a spiritual site of Shugendō, renowned for its steep terrain. We'll take part in Ishizuchisan's annual mountain-opening festival, experiencing the culture of worshippers coming to pray for safety.