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FAQ
- Q Where are the start and finishing points of the Trail?
- A Since the Trail can be hiked in both directions, the western starting point is Mt. Madarao; the eastern starting point is Mt. Naeba: Neither is the fixed start or goal.
- Q Where should I start hiking?
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A
The Trail intersects many mountain passes, highways and roads. Depending on the section, the access may be somewhat out of the way. So you don’t have to enter at the ends of any section, but anywhere along the Trail that you can access.
The Shin-etsu Trail, is divided into 10 sections, with each section designed to be walked in one day—so most people will hike the Trail section by section. Take a good look at the official map and guidebooks, and make a plan that fits what you want to do!
The sections vary in the difficulty of the hike, so if you feel uncertain about your ability, try some of the easier sections, such as 2, 3 or 9. Select a course that intersects a road so you can head off the Trail if necessary, or simply to shorten the length of the day’s hike. - Q How many days will it take to hike the entire Trail?
- A Since the Trail is divided into 10 sections, a general rule is that it will take 10 days to complete the hike without excessive effort. Tent sites are available along the Trail, so it is possible by camping out and using local accommodations to hike the Trail in eight nights/nine days. Remember that it can get hot in summer, which will make you tire faster. Be sure to think about this as you make your own hiking plan, and decide on a feasible pace and distances to hike.
- Q I’m not confident about my physical strength. Is it reasonable to hike the Trail?
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A
Sections 1 to 9 can be accomplished by most anyone who does a normal amount of exercising. Along the Trail, though, are some steep sections, other sections with continuous ups and downs of 100 meters or so, so read the guides, understand where these are, and plan your schedule accordingly. It can be quite hot in summer, so especially for those who aren’t sure about their physical ability, be sure not to overdo it in the heat!
For first-time hikers, we encourage the use of a guide, or of joining a group.
Section 10 is a real mountain hike, ascending to more than 2,000 meters. This section is for people who do have experience hiking and climbing mountains. This section requires the hiker to carry a certain amount of gear appropriate to the mountains, in order to be ready for changes in weather and temperature, and to be able to handle difficult and slippery mountain trails. This does require good physical condition. - Q Is water available along the Trail?
- A Please refer to the Section Overview for information on where water is available. The official Trail map also indicates places where water can be found. Be sure to always carry plenty of water, though, as springs and other water sources may dry up in summer or at other times. If you take water from a pond or swamp, be sure to use a water purifier.
- Q Are toilets available along the Trail?
- A Please refer to the Section Overview for information on the location of toilets. With that information, try to use the toilet facilities as much as possible in order to reduce the environmental impact. When no facilities are available, please dig a hole at least 20cm deep in a location 60 meters or more away from water sources. When finished, refill the hole with dirt (but bring toilet paper and other materials with you to dispose of later). If possible, also bring a portable toilet with you. Also, along with the closing of roads at the end of October, toilet facilities will also be closed.
- Q Do I need to submit a climbing report?
- A Check the section on submitting a climbing report in Hiking the Shin-etsu Trial.
- Q Is a permit or entry fee required to hike the Trail?
- A We do ask that everyone who hikes the Trail pays the Trail maintenance fee (¥1,000 per person). Click here for more information.
- Q Can I use a mobile phone along the Trail?
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A
Although signal conditions differ depending on the model, the three major carriers (NTT Docomo, au, and Softbank) can be used in almost all sections on the ridges of the Shin-etsu Trail. However, in some places, such as in terrains with streams, hollows, and remote areas, it may be difficult to get a signal. In particular, please note that the following areas may be difficult to get a connection or out of range.
Also please note that we have not conducted a survey of cell phone reception conditions for cell phones other than those three major carriers, so we do not know the status of cell phone reception.
Locations where cell phone service is difficult or out of range
Section 1: Between the North side of Mt. Hakamadake and Akaike area
Section 2: Around Numanohara Wetland
Section 3: Around Sobu no Ike pond, between Kitafuru Wetland and Hotoke ga Mine trailhead
Section 6: Around Mt Amamizu, around Matsunoyama trailhead of the approach trail to the Shin-etsu Trail
Section 8: Between Nakago Village - Azuki Zaka slope (*You may be able to receive signal around the Myoho Farm Administration Building)
Section 9: Betweem Ketto and Mikura villages, around the Amazake village
Section 10: Between the 2nd and 3rd stations, also between the 9th station to the summit of Mt. Naeba
Note: When you cannot make a call even your cell phone shows bars for reception, turn off your cell phone and turn it back on again then you may have better result. - Q Can I bring my dog on the Trail?
- A For the sake of the environment, we request that you not bring pets on the Trail. There is a trail in Madarao Kogen that is open to those walking with their dogs. For more details, please see the Madarao Kogen Tourism website.
- Q Can a mountain bike be ridden on the Trail?
- A The Shin-etsu Trail is operated as a welking trail only, with the consent of local landowners, government ministries and local governments. Please refrain from riding mountain bikes on unpaved roads and trails.
- Q Are open fires allowed along the Trail?
- A Open fires are prohibited; for more information, please see the rules for the use of Shin-etsu Trail tent sites.
- Q When is it possible to hike the Trail?
- A For those planning to through-hike the Trail, the season is from late June to early November. Depending on the remaining snow, Sections 1 and 2 can be hiked from mid-May; sections 3 and 4 from mid-June; and sections 5 to 9 from mid- to end-June. The main roads for approach to the Trail close in early November, while some other roads will close as soon as it snows (note that snow can fall here in early October, which may be the time of closure). Mt. Naeba in section 10 will see snowfall from late September, with the mountain lodge closing around October 20. Snow will be completely gone across the entire Trail around the beginning of July. For more weather details, check the latest information at the Trail website (mostly in Japanese). Check here for more information on the seasons of use for the tent sites.
- Q What is the condition on the Trail during the springtime Golden Week holidays (end April-early May, one of the busiest travel periods in Japan)?
- A The condition varies greatly, but there will still be a lot of snow on the Trail in sections 1 to 3, and a few meters of snow on parts of the Trail in sections 4 to 7. Roads in sections 8 and 9 may have much snow remaining, and will not yet be plowed during Golden Week. Mt. Naeba in section 10 will continue to have snow on the Trail from the middle section of the mountain to the summit until early July. When there is snow on the Trail, signposts may not be visible and maintenance will not yet have begun, so it is very easy to get lost—we do not recommend attempting the trek during the period when snow may be on the Trail. In additional all the tent sites will be under snow, so will not be available during the week. Once the snow has melted and maintenance has been performed on the tent sites, they are usually available starting in late June to early July.
- Q Are there any special precautions needed for the rainy season?
- A Steep slopes can be very slippery during rainy season. Special care should be made to watch for flooding when crossing wetland areas. Stones and bridges in these areas can also become very slippery. Be sure to equip yourself with the clothing and gear needed to make hiking in this season safe and comfortable, including rainwear; water-repellant, breathable hiking shoes; spats; trekking poles; etc. During descents, if you become frightened be sure to remember the three-point concept—move only one limb at a time.
- Q Are there any special precautions needed for summertime hiking?
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A
The Shin-etsu Trail runs along a ridgeline with an elevation of about 1,000 meters, so there will be many summer days when the temperature exceeds 30°C/86°F. Also, there is very little shade in some sections, such as in section 1 from Mt. Madarao and Mansaka Tōge pass, Section 4 from the Togari Onsen Hoshifuru Campsite to Hotokegamine Trailhead, and on the sharp ridges between Ozawa Tōge pass and Mt. Nabekura, so hikers can be exposed to long sections with direct sunlight. The paved roads in sections 7 and 8 have almost no shade, and will have a strong reflection of heat off the asphalt pavement during the summer. Be very careful and avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Drink plenty of water.
After rains, large numbers of insects such as mosquitoes and gnats will appear. Be sure to take the appropriate measures to reduce the chances of being bitten.
Even though it can be quite hot during the daytime, there will also be times when things can be chilly, such as in the mornings and evenings. If you will be camping at the tent sites, we recommend that you have clothing suitable for variations in temperature, including outerwear, lightweight down jackets or vests, fleece items, quick-drying T-shirts and underwear, etc. This is also true for Mt. Naeba: carry wear and gear suitable for the mountains and sudden changes in weather and temperature.
Bees, hornets and wasps will be become especially active from early summer into autumn. The insects will aggressively protect their nests, so approaching the nests can be dangerous.
For preventative clothing, wear a hat and protect your neck from direct sunlight with a towel. Sun umbrellas can be a good choice for section 8, which has little shade. Wear clothing that has high wicking and quick-drying characteristics to help evaporate sweat.
Because sources of water can be quite far apart, carry at least two liters of water with you and hydrate regularly; also carry some source of both salt and sugar to replenish these during your hike. More information on water sources and be found here. - Q Are there any special precautions needed for autumn hiking?
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The sun sets progressively early in autumn. In wooded sections it will be dark after 4 pm, so carry a headlamp with you and try to depart early in the morning and arrive at your destination early. Be careful about the drop in temperature that comes with darkness. Depending on the weather, the temperature may drop into the teens or snow may fall if a cold front moves through. Those staying in tents at the tent sites should pay special attention to the weather; temperatures may fall below freezing in late October.
Autumn is also a time when animal encounters often occur. Take precautions, such as wearing a bell. The large hornets are active from spring to autumn, but become especially aggressive from September to November as food sources become scarce. Be extra aware of the presence of hornets in this season. More on dangerous animals along the Trail here.
The main pass closes for winter in the second week of November, and it is impossible to approach the Trail entrance by car. Therefore, we do not recommend hiking the Trail once the road has closed for winter. Also, some signs are removed in the Madarao and Togari Onsen areas where the Trail passes through ski areas, and in section 8 and 9 the Trail passes through villages—increasing the likelihood of getting lost. - Q So it’s impossible to hike the Trail during the winter?
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A
The Shin-etsu Trail is operated and used as a trail for the snowless months of the year; it has not been designed for or intended for use when snow is on the ground. Because of this, apart from some guided tours that hike short sections in winter, there is no thought of hiking the Trail itself in winter, but people do access sections as part of winter mountain climbing.
The Sekida Mountains and Mt. Naeba, between which the Trail runs, sees some of the heaviest snowfall in the world, with many areas receiving eight or more meters of snow each winter. Large cornices form along the ridgelines, and there are slopes highly prone to avalanches. To ensure safety, only those with intensive winter mountain experience should enter the area in winter. Tent sites are not available for snow camping. You are responsible for your own safety, should you enter the Trail area, so use your best judgment.
At the same time, though, there is a portion of the Trail that is ideal for snowshoeing, and the Shin-etsu Trail Club does host snowshoeing sessions:
• Around Lake Nozomi: please see the Madarao Tourism Organization website.
• Maki Tōge pass and Mt. Hanatate: mountain climbing reports can be submitted at the Mori no Ie in Nabekura; a course map is also available. - Q What is the nearest train station to access the Trail?
- A The JR Iiyama Station is the closest to Mt. Madarao, the western end of the Trail. Buses and taxis are available at Iiyama Station that travel to Madarao Kōgen. Along the eastern sections (6 to 10), Morimiyanohara Station, Tsunan Station and Echigo Yuzawa Stations are the closest to the Trail. For more information, here is a list of the nearest stations and bus stops for each section.
- Q I’d like to go by taxi to the entrance of each Trail section.
- A Please refer to the section Using taxis. Taxis are regularly available at Iiyama Station, Togari Nozawa Onsen Station and Echigo Yuzawa Station. Reservations for taxis will have to be made at all other stations. It is also possible to call for a taxi to go to the starting point of each section.
- Q Are there pick-up/drop-off services available at Trail entry/exit points?
- A If you are staying at an inn that is a Shin-etsu Trail Club member, you may have access to pick-up and drop-off at the nearest entry/exit point. This depends on the individual accommodation, however; depending on their circumstances, this service may not be available. When available, the pick-up/drop-off service is provided free of charge by the accommodation. The maximum distance they will travel has been fixed, so please don’t make unusual requests! For more information, please contact the individual accommodation.
- Q How can I get back to the start after I finish hiking the Trail?
- A If you’re traveling with a group, the easiest thing is to leave one car at the final goal, and head to the start in another. If you’re in one car, you can make a reservation with a car-forwarding service, which will drive the car to your goal point (available only in the Sekida Mountain sections).
- Q Where can I find the latest information, such as on road conditions around the Trail area?
- A For information on the Nagano side, look at the infrastructure section of the Nagano Prefecture website. On the Niigata side, information on winter road closures and traffic regulations can be found at Niigata Prefecture’s road information webpage. More information can be found at Joetsu City’s website and at the Tokamachi Regional Development website. More information can also be found at the Shin-etsu Trail Club website’s Trail information section.
- Q Do I need a map? Is it possible to hike the Trail using only the markings and signs along the way?
- A We do not recommend relying on the signs and other markings along the Trail. Please purchase the official Shin-etsu Trail Map before your trek, and use it to help plan your adventure. Carry the map as well as a compass while hiking; take a few moments from time to time to check your position on the map. Come to the Trail with the same kind of approach that you would in climbing a mountain.
- Q Where can I purchase the official map?
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A
The map is available at the Shin-etsu Trail Store. It can also be purchased at any of the Shin-etsu Trail visitor centers, as well as at these stores and travel-related facilities:
• Iiyama Yutaki Onsen, Iiyama City
• Hananoeki Roadside Station, Chikuma River, Iiyama City
• Tsunan Tourism Association, Tsunan
• Ginza Nagano, Ginza, Tokyo
• Hiker’s Depot, Mitaka, Tokyo
• Trails web store
• Buyo-do, Nihonbashi, Tokyo - Q In order to plan for my hike, are the other materials that I can use along with the official map?
- A The Official Guidebook to the Shin-etsu Trail contains detailed information on each of the sections of the Trail, as well as information on the animals, flowers and more along the Trail. The latest Trail information can also be found at the Shin-etsu Trail Club website and Facebook page.
- Q I'm hiking the Trail for the first time. What kind of equipment do I need?
- A Please see the section on Hiking the Shin-etsu Trail.
- Q Can I hike the Trail in low-cut shoes?
- A We recommend the use of high- or mid-cut shoes which provide good ankle support. There are many rises and falls along the Shin-etsu Trail, and other sections where you need to walk for extended periods on steep ski slopes. There are many spots that will be muddy, so some waterproof, breathable trekking shoes are highly recommended. There are hard paved roads in sections 7 to 9; for these some light, soft-soled shoes will be the most comfortable.
- Q How much drinking water should I bring with me?
- A During the summer, two liters is a good basic guide. Be sure to check for places where water is available on the official map as you do your planning. If you are staying in a tent, bringing a water filter/purifier is recommended. Some water sources may dry out in summer, so plan ahead and bring extra water if needed.
- Q Is it possible to rent gear for the hike?
- A The Shin-etsu Shizenkyō Activity Center, located on the first floor of JR Iiyama Station rents trekking shoes, backpacks, rainwear, trekking poles, tents, gas burners and other gear.
- Q What accommodations are available along the Shin-etsu Trail?
- A There are many hotels, ryokan, pensions and guest houses in the Shin-etsu Trail area. Among these are the member inns, accommodations which work along with the Shin-etsu Trail Club and are particularly well informed about the Shin-etsu Trail.
- Q Are there emergency shelters along the Trail?
- A There are no small cabins providing shelter along the Trail; the tent sites are the best spot for those staying on the Trail. The Katsura Ike tent site does have a small shelter where hikers can escape from the rain. Green Pal Hikarigahara-so, site of the Hikarigahara Kōgen camp site, does have a lodge and bungalows (more information can be found here.
- Q Where are the tent sites located? How can I make a reservation to stay at them?
- A Click here for a list of the tent sites, and the method for making reservations.
- Q When can the tent sites be used?
- A Once the snow has melted and the sites have been prepared, so from the end of June/early July to the end of October. Snow can fall in November, and the main passes leading to the Trail close in early November, so the tent sites will be closed until the following year. The annual schedule for each tent site varies, so please see the section providing the latest Trail information.
- Q How big are the tent sites?
- A The tent sites vary in size, so check with the listing to see how many tents each can accommodate. Depending on the time of year, reservations for sites may be full. So be sure to check out the information, and make your reservation well in advance.
- Q What should I do if my schedule changes after I make my reservation?
- A If your schedule changes, please let us know through the contact form on this website. Please note that changes can only be made during the current calendar year; we cannot accept changes that would be for the next calendar year.
- Q Can I receive a refund if I have to cancel my reservation after making payment?
- A We’re sorry, but refunds will not be made after payment has been received.
- Q Are there dangerous animals along the Shin-etsu Trail?
- A All hikers should take care and learn more about hornets, wasps and bees; snakes; the Tsuki no Waguma, or Asian black bear; and ticks, all of which can be found along the Trail. For more information, continue reading the section of the FAQ.
- Q Give me some advice about bees and wasps.
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A
The Trail area is inhabited by a number of species of bees, hornets and wasps. Jibachi, a social wasp, is not as aggressive nor toxic as the suzumebachi (Asian giant hornet), but they are quite common and nest in the ground or in hollows of trees, which means you may approach the nest and cause them to be defensive without you actually noticing them. The suzumebachi are large, aggressive and have the most potent venom of any bee, wasp or hornet in Japan, so pay special attention for them. A sting from any of the species can be life-threatening if the victim goes into anaphylactic shock, regardless of the toxicity of the venom. If you see a hornet, wasp or bee in flight, remain still; they respond to motion, often by attacking. If you are stung and feel increased heart rate or dizziness, immediately seek medical attention. Call the emergency number (119), advise them of your current location on the official map, and get to a hospital as quickly as possible. It can take considerable time for an ambulance to arrive, so contact the Japan Poison Information Center for more information and guidance:
• Japan Poison Information Center, Osaka: 072-727-2499 (open 24 hours)
• Japan Poison Information Center, Tsukuba: 029-852-9999 (9 am to 9 pm) - Q What precautions should I take regarding snakes?
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The Shin-etsu Trail area is home to two highly poisonous snakes: the mamushi (pit viper) and yamakagashi (tiger keelback). You may come across snakes warming themselves on or near the Trail after rain or on sunny days. As with bees and wasps, stay calm, don’t startle the snake and wait for it to leave. If you are bitten, call the emergency number (119), advise them of your current location on the official map, and get to a hospital as quickly as possible. It can take considerable time for an ambulance to arrive, so contact the Japan Poison Information Center for more information and guidance:
• Japan Poison Information Center, Osaka: 072-727-2499 (open 24 hours)
• Japan Poison Information Center, Tsukuba: 029-852-9999 (9 am to 9 pm) - Q What precautions should I take regarding bears?
- A Remember that bears will most often run away or try to hide if they are aware of the presence of a human, so it’s important not to meet them directly. When visibility is poor—in the early morning, at dusk, when there is fog, etc.)—or when it is hard to hear normal sound because of strong winds, heavy rain, along rivers, etc., lap your hands regularly, talk loudly, etc. Although we don’t receive a great deal of sighting information, we do regularly receive word of bear sightings every month. There is no need to be overly afraid of bears, but do take measures including the use of a bear bell to reduce the possibility of an unexpected encounter, and avoid traveling in the worst weather or when visibility is poor. Your cooperation will help bit hikers and the wild animals to coexist and enjoy the Trail. If you do see a bear, please let the Secretariat know about your sighting.
- Q Please tell me what I need to know about ticks.
- A These arachnids live in forested areas; they are about five millimeters in length, and suck the blood of animals and humans. If one does attach to you, do not remove it forcibly; this can cause inflammation and infection, and in severe cases can be fatal. Please go to a hospital to have a dermatologist remove the tick. For protection, we recommend wearing long-sleeve shirts and long trousers.
- Q Are there Shin-etsu Trail-related events?
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A
- The main event sponsored by the Shin-etsu Trail Club is the Noriyoshi Kato Memorial Shin-etsu Trail Opening, held each year in late-June to early July.
- The surrounding cities and towns also hold a number of trekking events annually.
- We also hold a special event for members of the Shin-etsu Trail Club each year.
- Check the section on special events and information regularly.
- Q Are there guided tours I can join?
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A
- The Shin-etsu Trekking Tour, sponsored by the visitors centers, is a great chance to walk the Trail with a guide.
- There are also guided treks sponsored by local towns and cities.
- Check the section on special events and information regularly for more information.
- Q Is it possible to arrange for a private guide?
- A Yes, it is possible to arrange for a Shin-etsu Trail registered guide to hike with you. Guided trekking is highly recommended for those who are unsure about hiking on their own; guides also are great assist in fully enjoying the nature, culture and history of the Shin’etsu Trail.
- Q How much does a guide cost?
- A The guide fee is ¥20,000 per day, ¥15,000 for a half-day. Reservation and other information can be found here.
Below are some of the most commonly asked questions from visitors to this website. Be sure to look and see if your question can be answered here before contacting the Shin-etsu Trail Club.