Mt. Ontake

Tuesday, December 4, 2018 Updated

Japan's Second Largest Volcano

Mt. Ontake is one of Japan's most sacred mountains located in the northeast area of Nagoya, bordering the Nagano and Gifu Prefectures. This mountain stands at 3,067 meters (10,062 ft) and is the 14th highest mountain in the world, as well as the second highest volcano in Japan after Mount Fuji. Many pilgrims from Japan come to hike the Ontake Pilgrimage Trail to the summit, as well as artists and actors looking for inspiration from this spiritual mountain. It isn't a surprise to see pilgrims in white performing ceremonies during the warmer months of July and August. Not only is Mt. Ontake a popular spiritual spot, but the mountain was also listed in Japan's 100 famous mountains in Japan. Similar to Mt. Fuji, Mt. Ontake also has five crater lakes, and the Ni No Ike (二ノ池) at 2,905 m (9,531 ft) is the highest mountain lake in Japan. While the volcano was thought to be inactive until a series of eruptions in 1979, Mt. Ontake recently had another eruption in 2014. This resulted in the one-kilometer area around the crater being placed off limits.
When exploring the Ontake Pilgrimage Trail, travelers will pass by two of the most sacred waterfalls in the region, Kiyotaki and Shintaki falls. Pilgrims would stand under these waterfalls to receive purification before continuing on their journey. For those not looking to make the entire pilgrimage, the Kiso's Ontake Rope-way offers a scenic ride up the mountain. The mountain is also considered a prime ski destination for advanced winter-sports fans. Skiing down the slopes of Nagano's highest volcano is a popular winter-time activity when hiking is no longer an option. No matter the season, Mt. Ontake is a great destination for nature-lovers. You can visit Japan's second highest volcano with our private or custom Japan tour options year-round. We also can customize your Japan tour's free day to include a day-trip to explore this massive mountain.