Today, we went on an adventure to conquer the peak of Nokoyama. Upon my mother-in-law’s suggestion, we drove to Hichiso, the starting point of the trail. Located just a 45-minute drive from our home, it was a manageable journey.
Upon arrival in Hichiso, we parked at Rock Town Plaza, which was a prudent decision as the parking near the trailhead tends to be congested, according to a local’s advice. From there, it was another 30 minutes to the trail’s beginning.
The trail itself proved to be a challenging 90-minute hike, twice as long as ascending Kinkazan. Initially, the path meandered through a serene forest adorned with numerous waterfalls, offering a refreshing ambiance with the soothing sounds of flowing rivers. I even indulged in drinking fresh river water at the outset, a rare and delightful experience.
As we progressed, the trail grew steeper and rockier, presenting a greater challenge than any I had encountered before. Despite being my mother-in-law’s first ascent of Nokoyama, her remarkable stamina propelled her ahead of my wife and me. Her decade-long habit of weekend mountain hikes undoubtedly accounts for her impressive fitness, a goal I aspire to achieve with more dedication to training.
Approaching the summit, we encountered three consecutive steep, rocky walls, which tested our endurance. Inquiring with fellow hikers, we learned we were only halfway there, a revelation that momentarily dampened our spirits.
Undeterred, my wife and I continued at our own pace, pausing occasionally to admire the breathtaking views, especially the snow-capped peaks of the surrounding mountains. Our perseverance paid off upon reaching the summit, where we joined fellow hikers, some equipped with mini gas stoves for preparing pot noodles. Despite arriving empty-handed, the camaraderie and scenic vistas lifted our moods.
The descent proved eventful as I slipped twice, sustaining minor injuries to my left ring finger and ego. The trail, though not particularly steep, became unexpectedly slippery, hastening my pace in anticipation of a well-deserved meal at Rock Town Plaza. My craving for a hearty udon set intensified after witnessing other hikers enjoying their meals.
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Experiences - Life - Inspiration 🇨🇭🇯🇵 
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