Tanagawadake bathed in the early morning light (Photo: Matthew Shewchuk)

Fall Colors of Tanigawadake

Crowded but Beautiful

C. Rio   - 1 min read

It was a fresh Sunday morning in early October when we began our ascent of Tanigawadake. Most of the year this mountain remains quite, with little activity accept a few hikers on the weekend. However, when the days start to get shorter and the leaves start to turn, this mountain becomes swamped with Japanese tourists. Parking lots fill with dozens upon dozens of vehicles packed to the gills with prospective peak baggers. All the way down the valley buses clamor up the windy mountain road to drop off tourists of all ages and descriptions, all eager to make it to the peak. From the summit, it is easy to see why; a sea of mountains bursting with colors.

C. Rio

C. Rio @matthew.shewchuk

Based out of Minakami, where I work as a canyoning guide.  I love hiking and am always looking to the skies for good weather.