Mount Ontake is an active volcano over 3,076m tall along the border of Nagano Prefecture and Gifu Prefecture, and is known as one of the many sacred mountains of Japan. The charms of nature can be enjoyed throughout the seasons by hiking, mountain climbing, winter sports, and more. The Ontake Ropeway, which connects the 5th and 7th stations on Mount Ontake, is convenient for hikers.

The Ontake Ropeway travels from Kanose Station (Sanroku Station) at 1,570m above sea level, to Iimori Kogen Station (Sancho Station) at the 7th station of Mount Ontake at 2,150m above sea level. It crosses a total distance of 2,330m in 15 minutes in one direction, and operates round trip. From Sancho Station, a vast panorama stretches out before you, including the Central Alps, the Northern Alps, and Mt. Norikuradake, and you can enjoy the scenery as if you are walking on air. The rooftop observatory on Sancho Station also has a mirror deck, which is lined with mirrors, making it a popular photo spot where you can enjoy magnificent views in different aspects. In addition, the Takayama Botanical Garden is next to Sancho Station. You can conveniently enjoy its variety of rare flowers.

We recommend taking a walk in the primeval forest from Ontake Ropeway Sancho Station via the small path of Veitch’s silver fir trees, and stretch your legs along the mini forest path course. It is a flat walking course that takes 30 minutes round trip, so you can enjoy a pleasant walk and easily experience the nature of Mount Ontake.

In addition, the mountain climbing course that leads to the 8th station of Mount Ontake via the small path of Veitch’s silver fir trees is one of the best spots to see autumn leave in Japan. In autumn, Mount Ontake is vividly colored by the bright red Japanese rowan and the yellow Erman’s birch. Most years, the best season to see autumn leaves is from mid-September to mid-October.