Mt. Kurotake is the highest peak (1,793m) of the Misaka Mountain Range in Yamanashi Prefecture. Rising along the ridgeline on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, it is renowned for its sweeping views of Mt. Fuji and four lakes: Motosu, Shoji, Sai, and Kawaguchiko. While the summit area is forested, the traverse trail continuing to Shindo Pass, Sankodai, and Momijidai features viewpoints throughout. This celebrated mountain offers seasonal appeal from fresh greenery in early summer and clouds below in midsummer to autumn foliage and crystal-clear winter skies.
Access is by hiking bus from Kawaguchiko Station to Tenka Chaya (Misaka Pass). The most popular and straightforward circuit descends via Sankodai and Momijidai to the north shore of Lake Kawaguchiko (Kubota Itchiku Museum bus stop), then returns to Kawaguchiko Station by loop bus (Red Line). The Tenka Chaya bus is a seasonal service with limited departures, so plan carefully to avoid missing it (service dates and frequency vary by season). Be sure to check the latest official timetable before departure.
Access to the Trailhead
Map
1. Going: Kawaguchiko Sta. → Tenka Chaya
From Kawaguchiko Station, take the hiking bus bound for Tenka Chaya (Misaka Pass) via Mitsutoge Tozanguchi and get off at the last stop, Tenka Chaya. Travel time: 28 min
Bus Timetable: Kawaguchiko Sta. → Tenka Chaya
| Kawaguchiko Sta. | Tenka Chaya |
|---|---|
| 9:50 | 10:18 |
Reference: Fujikyu Bus (Kawaguchiko Sta. – Mitsutoge / Tenka Chaya)
2. Return: Kubota Itchiku Museum → Kawaguchiko Sta.
From Kubota Itchiku Museum, take the Fujikyu Bus Kawaguchiko Loop Bus (Red Line) and get off at Kawaguchiko Station.
Travel time: 23 min
Buses depart from Kubota Itchiku Museum at :11, :36, and :51 past the hour from 9:37 to 18:12.
Reference: Fujikyu Bus (Kawaguchiko Loop Bus)
Photo by Wikipedia
