Is mid-October too late for Kamikochi to Nakabusa?

by Jess
(Australia)

Hi Gary,

Thanks for sharing such wonderful information on this site!

I'd like to do a 3-4 day hike in the Japan Alps in October. I was hoping for some advice on timing for weather, and on which route to take.

I had the Omote Ginza route recommended to me, but I'm open to other suggestions. I'm currently looking at walking Kamikochi - Yarigatake - Nishidake or Otenshodake - Nakabusa Onsen. Which direction would you recommend for this hike (Kamikochi - Nakabusa)? I thought finishing at the onsen would be nice, but the walk downhill from Enzanso to Nakabusa sounds very steep.

To avoid crowds over the Sports Day long weekend (8-10th October) I was going to start hiking around the 14th or 15th of October. However, I could start as early as the 7th or 8th. Would you recommend starting earlier rather than later in October?

Many thanks for your time.

Jess.