Tsubakuro-dake (Swallow Peak) Summit

Tsubakuro-dake, known as Swallow Peak, is a 2,763 m summit in the Northern Alps reached from the Nakabusa Onsen trailhead in Azumino City, Nagano. The trailhead is accessed by taxi or shuttle from Hotaka station, and the round trip covers 14 km with roughly 1,000 m of elevation gain, typically completed as a two-day trip with an overnight stay at Enzanso mountain hut near the summit ridge. The lower trail climbs steadily through beech and conifer forest on a well-graded dirt path known locally as one of the better-maintained routes in the Northern Alps, with switchbacks easing the grade. Above the treeline near Gozengahara, the surface turns to exposed granite and scree, and the trail passes distinctive wind-eroded granite formations before reaching the ridge. The final approach to the summit involves some rock scrambling but no technical climbing. Water sources exist at intervals on the lower forested section but disappear above Gozengahara, so hikers should fill up before the treeline. Enzanso hut, perched just below the summit, offers meals, bedding, and emergency shelter, and reservations are strongly recommended in peak season. The summit itself offers panoramic views across the Northern Alps toward Yarigatake. Most hikers ascend on day one to the hut and summit at sunrise or sunset before descending on day two.