Decking out my scrapbook journal when trekking the Japanese Hida Mountains
- Sudipto Paul
- 1 hour ago
- 13 min read
Photo: Blue Planet Studio
"Embarking on a trek through the stunning Japanese Hida Mountains was not just an adventure, it became a journey of self-discovery and creativity. As I traversed the breathtaking landscapes and immersed myself in the rich culture of the region, I collected a treasure trove of experiences - viewpoints that left me in awe, unique souvenirs that captured the essence of my travels, and ticket stubs that marked my path."
.. in this article, a hiker explores the process of converting tangible memories into a detailed scrapbook journal, combining creative techniques and reflective documentation to produce a lasting tribute to an exceptional trekking experience. Join in, and get insights on crafting a scrapbook that not only tells a story but also encapsulates the spirit of adventure.
Table of Contents
My Trekking Adventure in the Hida Mountains - Northern Japan Alps
Overview of the Hida Mountains - the Northern Japan Alps
Nestled in the heart of Japan, the Hida Mountains, also known as the Northern Japan Alps, are a trekker's dream - rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and views that will make you feel like a tiny human in a gigantic, postcard-perfect world. Towering over the landscape, these majestic mountains are not just a feast for the eyes, but also a sanctuary for wildlife and an adventure waiting to be lived.
Purpose of the Scrapbook Journal
As I huffed and puffed up those trails, I knew that my trek was more than just a physical journey. It was emotional, spiritual, and a little bit sweaty. My scrapbook journal became my trusty sidekick, a space to capture the memories, emotions, and quirky stories that unfolded along the way. With every ticket stub and doodle, I’m crafting a narrative that will let me relive my adventure long after I swap my hiking boots for cozy slippers.
Capturing the Essence of the Hida Mountains
Scenic Viewpoints, Wildlife and Nature highlights along the trek route
Oh, the viewpoints! Every turn on the Hida Mountains’ trails unfurls a fresh panorama that makes me gasp - not only from the altitude, but from the drama of ridgelines, rock spires, and far-flung valleys. From crystalline vistas of snow-capped peaks to quiet nooks where the air tastes like mint, these places aren’t just dots on a map - they’re the living highlights of the journey.
Below, I’ve expanded the experience into practical, trail-by-trail guides with iconic viewpoints, realistic point-to-point travel times, simple elevation profiles, a field-notes glance at the wildlife, flora, and fauna you’re likely to meet (with seasonal profiling) and local market notes where applicable.
How to read this Trails Guide
Times reflect average summer hiking pace with light breaks, fair weather, and normal trail conditions.
Add extra margin for early season snow, autumn crowds, or storm delays.
Distances and elevation are approximations; always confirm with the latest local maps and hut notices.
Elevation profile keys:
Low: trailheads/valleys (1,200–1,600 m)
Mid: subalpine ridges (2,000–2,600 m)
High: alpine summits (2,800–3,200 m)
1) Trail - Kamikōchi to Mount Yari (Yarigatake) Ridge Route
Famous trail: Kamikōchi – Yokoo – Yari-sawa – Yarigatake
Style: Valley approach to a dramatic pyramid peak with ladders and airy ridges
Elevation profile: Low → Mid → High (steady valley rise, steeper final scramble)
Photo: Eric Deveaux
Key Viewpoints and Segment Times:
Kamikōchi (Kappa-bashi) → Myojin
Viewpoint: Azusa River reflections with Hotaka massif backdrop
Time: 1–1.5 hours
Local market/refreshment: Trailhead kiosks and lodge shops sell onigiri, hot soups, soft-serve, postcards, and wooden charms.
Myojin → Yokoo
Viewpoint: Yokoo Valley meadows with first clear sight of Yari’s spear
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Local market/refreshment: Yokoo Sanso shop counters: hut-stamped souvenir badges, simple bento, canned coffee, and map bandanas.
Yokoo → Yarisawa Lodge
Viewpoint: Granite walls closing in, alpenglow at dusk near the lodge
Time: 2–2.5 hours
Local market/refreshment: Lodge kiosk with patch sets, enamel mugs, instant noodles, snacks, and limited gas canisters.
Yarisawa Lodge → Yarigatake Sanso (summit hut)
Viewpoint: Yari-sawa cirque; ladder section with widening views of the Kita Alps
Time: 3–4 hours
Local market/refreshment: Summit hut counter: peak pins, route-branded T-shirts, hut stamps, curry rice, and hot tea.
Yarigatake Sanso → Mount Yari summit
Viewpoint: 360° sweep over the Hida spine—Hotaka, Tsubakuro, Jonen, and beyond
Time: 20–40 minutes (scramble)
Wildlife, Flora, and Fauna (with Seasonal Profiling):
Spring (May–June): Forest beech flush, Asian skunk cabbage in wetter pockets; varied tits and copper pheasants active at dawn. Snow patches persist above 2,500 m; watch for raichō (rock ptarmigan) along melting edges.
Summer (July–Aug): Alpine azalea and saxifrages bloom near boulders; pikas peep in rockfields; butterflies ride ridge thermals. Afternoon thunderheads common.
Autumn (Sept–Oct): Mountain maple and rowan blaze in valleys; nutcrackers crack dwarf pine cones; macaques sometimes forage near lower trails. Cooler, clearer air improves visibility.
Winter/early spring shoulder (Nov–Apr, limited access): Deep snow; serow on lower flanks; ravens patrol ridgelines. Specialized gear and experience required.
2) Trail - Kamikōchi to Hotaka Range and Okuhotaka-dake
Famous trail: Kamikōchi – Tokusawa – Karasawa – Okuhotaka-dake
Style: Iconic U-shaped valley to a huge glacial cirque, then a rugged summit push
Elevation profile: Low → Mid → High (gentle valley, steep cirque headwall, rocky ridge)
Photo: TakIwayoshi
Key Viewpoints and Segment Times:
Kamikōchi (Kappa-bashi) → Tokusawa
Viewpoint: Larch-lined riverwalk with mirror-like pools
Time: 1.5–2 hours
Local market/refreshment: Riverside cafes and lodges offer soft cream, apple pies, postcards, and Hotaka-themed pins.
Tokusawa → Karasawa (Karasawa-goya area)
Viewpoint: The famed Karasawa Cirque amphitheater—legendary autumn colors
Time: 3–4 hours
Local market/refreshment: Hut tents and counters: limited groceries, stove fuel, hut stamps, enamelware, and hearty stews.
Karasawa → Hotaka-dake Sanso (ridge hut)
Viewpoint: Switchbacks with unfolding views of Yarigatake and Jonen
Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
Local market/refreshment: Ridge hut shop: summit badges, neck gaiters, gloves, hot meals, and miso soups.
Hotaka-dake Sanso → Okuhotaka-dake summit
Viewpoint: Panorama across the Northern Alps; sunrise is unforgettable
Time: 40–60 minutes (rocky)
Optional: Okuhotaka-dake → Kita-Hotaka-dake traverse
Viewpoint: Sheer ridges into deep valleys, glacier-carved walls
Time: 1.5–2.5 hours (exposed)
Wildlife, Flora, and Fauna (with Seasonal Profiling):
Spring: Meltwater nourishes moss gardens; salamanders in side channels; wagtails on river gravels. Early bloomers dot the cirque floor.
Summer: Parnassius and other alpine butterflies float above dwarf pines; raichō hide among granite blocks; nutcrackers noisy at dawn.
Autumn: Peak foliage late Sept–Oct; migratory thrushes pass through; bears move for berries—carry a bell, keep food sealed.
Winter shoulder: Severe conditions above Karasawa; ravens and stoats; avalanche risk persists—only for trained parties.
3) Trail - Tateyama–Murodō Alpine Plateau to Tsurugi-dake
Famous trail: Murodō – Raichō-daira – Tsurugi-gozen – Tsurugi-dake
Style: High alpine plateau with volcanic landscapes leading to a rugged pinnacle
Elevation profile: Mid → High (rolling plateau then sharp, technical rise)
Photo: imagenavi
Key Viewpoints and Segment Times:
Murodō → Raichō-daira
Viewpoint: Geothermal fields, turquoise tarns, and Tateyama’s snow walls (seasonal)
Time: 45–75 minutes
Local market/refreshment: Murodō station shops: box lunches, regional sweets, snow-wall souvenirs, stamps, and postcards.
Raichō-daira → Tsurugi-gozen
Viewpoint: Broad views across the Toyama Plain and Sea of Japan on clear days
Time: 2–3 hours
Local market/refreshment: Hut counters along the plateau: route patches, warm drinks, simple rice bowls.
Tsurugi-gozen → Tsurugi-dake shoulder (via Bessan)
Viewpoint: Jagged ridgelines and the famous sawtooth profile
Time: 2–3 hours
Shoulder → Tsurugi-dake summit (technical sections)
Viewpoint: Grandstand over the Hida backbone, Kurobe gorge depths
Time: 1–2 hours (fixed chains; mountaineering experience recommended)
Wildlife, Flora, and Fauna (with Seasonal Profiling):
Spring: Thawing wetlands burst with marsh marigold; ptarmigan tracks crisscross snow patches; dragonflies emerge on warm days.
Summer: Cotton grass waves in wind; damselflies over pools; stoats and serow on fringes; snow algae tint patches pink.
Autumn: Dwarf birch and rowan turn gold and red; nutcrackers raid cones; clearer air brings distant sea views.
Winter shoulder: Plateau becomes a white desert; only crows and hardy mammals seen; avalanche and cornice hazards abound.
4) Trail - Mount Norikura Summit Circuit
Famous trail: Tatami-daira (bus drop) – Kengamine – Daikoku-dake – Tatami-daira loop
Style: Accessible volcano with multiple summits and broad crater views
Elevation profile: Mid → High → Mid (gentle start, brief steeper push to high point, rolling return)
Photo: Kimichan
Key Viewpoints and Segment Times:
Tatami-daira → Kengamine (highest point)
Viewpoint: Full sweep of the Northern Alps; crater lakes below
Time: 60–90 minutes
Local market/refreshment: Bus terminal kiosks: Norikura-branded snacks, peak pins, hot drinks.
Kengamine → Daikoku-dake
Viewpoint: Rolling volcanic ridges with layered lava fields
Time: 40–60 minutes
Local market/refreshment: Summit area huts sell simple meals, mountain badges, and postcards.
Daikoku-dake → Tatami-daira
Viewpoint: Alpine meadows and lingering summer snow patches
Time: 40–60 minutes
Wildlife, Flora, and Fauna (with Seasonal Profiling):
Spring: Meltwater ribbons attract wagtails; early gentians and willows bud.
Summer: Daylilies, gentians, and bumblebees paint the meadows; swallows skim crater lakes.
Autumn: Golden grasses, cool thermals, migratory pipits and wheatears on the move.
Winter shoulder: Harsh winds; only crows and fox tracks; restricted access.
5) Trail - Jonen-dake and the Front Range Balcony
Famous trail: Ichinosawa – Jonen-goya – Jonen-dake
Style: A steady climb to a superb balcony facing Hotaka and Yari
Elevation profile: Low → Mid → High (forest ridge to airy summit)
Photo: s nakayama
Key Viewpoints and Segment Times:
Ichinosawa trailhead → Jonen-goya
Viewpoint: Forested ridge openings with first peeks of Yarigatake
Time: 3–4 hours
Local market/refreshment: Trailhead vending and hut counters offer snacks, noodles, badges, and hut stamps.
Jonen-goya → Jonen-dake summit
Viewpoint: Classic postcard view of the Hotaka–Yari skyline
Time: 60–90 minutes
Local market/refreshment: Summit hut (seasonal) sells hot tea, soups, and collectible patches.
Optional traverse: Jonen-dake → Chōgatake
Viewpoint: Long, airy ridge with constant panoramas
Time: 2.5–3.5 hours
Wildlife, Flora, and Fauna (with Seasonal Profiling):
Spring: Sika deer browse at dawn; spring ephemerals in moist pockets; woodpeckers drum in the forest belt.
Summer: Dwarf pine thickets host nutcrackers and bullfinches; cushion heaths bloom; chipmunks busy around huts.
Autumn: Crisp air and migrating thrushes; maples and rowan flare; bears forage—maintain distance and secure food.
Winter shoulder: Quiet ridges, raven calls; icy traverses demand equipment and skill.
6) Trail - Tsubakuro-dake via Nakabusa Onsen
Famous trail: Nakabusa Onsen – Enzanso – Tsubakuro-dake
Style: Steep forest ascent to white-granite playgrounds and far views
Elevation profile: Low → Mid → High (sharp gain to an open, undulating summit area)
Photo: Marumi
Key Viewpoints and Segment Times:
Nakabusa Onsen → Enzanso
Viewpoint: Sunrise sea of clouds if you start pre-dawn; ridge opens dramatically
Time: 3–4 hours
Local market/refreshment: Onsen area shops with bath salts, local honey, trail snacks; hut shop sells patches and hot meals.
Enzanso → Tsubakuro-dake summit area
Viewpoint: White granite domes, sculpted boulders, and views to Azumino and Yari
Time: 30–60 minutes
Local market/refreshment: Summit area hut counters: enamel mugs, peak badges, udon and curry rice.
Optional: Ridge stroll toward Otensho-dake
Viewpoint: Photogenic rock gardens and distant Hotaka skyline
Time: 1–2 hours out-and-back
Wildlife, Flora, and Fauna (with Seasonal Profiling):
Spring: Forest wakes with warblers; early blooms in granite pockets; martens may be glimpsed at dusk near huts.
Summer: Silene and saxifrage in rock gardens; pipits and accentors along open slabs; butterflies abundant.
Autumn: Clear views, cool winds; nutcrackers active; serow sometimes seen on lower slopes.
Winter shoulder: Snow cloaks granite; only experienced parties proceed.
Seasonal and Safety Notes
Weather shifts fast; carry layers, rain protection, and navigation.
Early summer can hold snow above 2,500 m; an ice axe and microspikes may be necessary.
Many routes pass by mountain huts—great for updates, water, and meals. Book in peak seasons.
Some ridges (Daikiretto, Tsurugi summit routes) are exposed and require surefootedness and, for some variants, mountaineering skills.
Wildlife etiquette: Observe from a distance, never feed; protect fragile plants by staying on marked paths.
Packing Shortlist
Footing: grippy boots or trail shoes, trekking poles
Protection: sun hat, gloves, warm layer, waterproofs
Essentials: headlamp, map/GPS, snacks, water treatment, small first aid
Itineraries at a Glance
Weekend classic: Kamikōchi → Yarisawa → Yarigatake (overnight at Yarisawa Lodge or Yarigatake Sanso)
Color-chaser: Karasawa Cirque for peak autumn foliage, with a dawn push to Okuhotaka
Family-friendly highland: Norikura loop from Tatami-daira for big views with modest effort
Wherever you step along the Hida spine, the viewpoints keep arriving like scenes in a perfectly edited film—cut after cut of summits, cirques, and cloud oceans. I keep walking, partly for the miles, mostly for those next gasps.
Souvenirs that tell a Story
Unique finds from Local Markets
While I was trekking for the views, I couldn’t resist the local markets bursting with unique treasures. From handcrafted trinkets to delicious snacks (yes, I may have consumed more than a few - who can resist local goodies?), each find was a piece of the Hida experience I could take home. These souvenirs carry the essence of the mountains, reminding me of the bustling stalls and friendly vendors who shared snippets of local life.
Crafting Memories with collected items
Every item I collected - be it a quirky postcard, a ticket stub, or a piece of traditional craft - has a story. They’re not just mementos - they’re the building blocks of my scrapbook journal. Integrating these unique finds into my scrapbook allows me to weave a rich narrative, transforming an ordinary journal into a vibrant tapestry filled with tales of adventure and cultural discovery.
Artistic techniques for Scrapbook Journaling
Choosing the right Materials
Now, let’s talk materials! I dove into my craft stash like a kid in a candy store, gathering colorful papers, stickers, and anything that caught my eye. Choosing the right materials is crucial; you want everything to pop but also be durable enough to survive a sneeze during the next viewing! Think of it as the cherry on top of your artistic sundae - it makes all the difference.
Design Layout Ideas
When it comes to layout, there are a million ways to go! I leaned towards a mix of freeform flair and structured sections, so my pages tell a dynamic story. Layering photos, tickets, and bits of journaling in fun formations not only keeps it visually interesting but also personalizes each page. Just like planning a hike, a good layout requires some thought and creativity. So, get ready to embrace your inner artist!
Incorporating Ticket Stubs and Memorabilia
Significance of Ticket Stubs
Ticket stubs are like tiny time capsules from our adventures. Every stub tells a story - whether it’s the excitement of boarding a train to the next breathtaking viewpoint or the serendipity of stumbling upon a hidden gem of a café. These little pieces of paper encapsulate not just the places visited but the feelings experienced. Plus, they serve as evidence that yes, you really did take that journey, even when the memories start to fade like an old pair of hiking boots.
Creative ways to display Memorabilia
Why shove those ticket stubs in a drawer when you can flaunt them? Get crafty! Create a “memory wall” in your scrapbook where they can tell their tale, alongside photos. Use washi tape for a casual vibe or go for a more polished look with photo corners and decorative frames. You can even make a mini envelope for each destination and tuck in the corresponding stubs, so they form the treasure map of your epic trek. And who knows? You might inspire envy in your friends when they see your scrapbook masterpiece!
The Role of Photography in my Trekking Scrapbook
Selecting key Photos from the trek
Choosing which photos to include in your scrapbook is like picking your favorite child - impossible but essential. Focus on those that capture the essence of your journey. Perhaps it's the sunrise over a misty mountain peak or a candid shot of you attempting (and failing) to carry all the souvenirs. Aim for a mix of landscapes, candid moments, and maybe a few "I-can't-believe-I-did-this" selfies that will make you chuckle years from now. Remember, it’s about telling your story, not creating a National Geographic spread!
Combining Text and Images
A picture may be worth a thousand words, but a little text can sprinkle in the context that brings your memories alive! Jot down captions, funny anecdotes, or even snippets from the conversations you had with fellow trekkers. Combine photos with decorative labels or hand-written notes that make your scrapbook uniquely yours. It’s like giving your scrapbook a voice - let it chatter away about the adventures, alongside those stunning visuals!
Reflecting on Memories and Experiences
Lessons learned from the Journey
Every trek teaches us something - whether it's the importance of packing light (oops) or that blisters are just the body’s way of saying, “Maybe you should’ve trained a bit harder.” Reflecting on these lessons will not only enrich your scrapbook but will also serve as friendly reminders for future adventures. It’s a way to celebrate growth, resilience, and the occasional misstep - but hey, those usually make the best stories, right?
Emotional connection to the Hida Mountains
The Hida Mountains aren’t just a backdrop; they’re a character in your story. Each stunning vista and challenging trail becomes intertwined with your emotional journey - moments of solitude, joy, and even sheer exhaustion. When creating your scrapbook, take the time to jot down how those breathtaking views made you feel. Was it awe, nostalgia, or perhaps a newfound appreciation for that cozy bed waiting back home? Let these emotions shape your narrative, bringing depth and richness to your scrapbook.
Tips for creating your own Trekking Scrapbook
Gathering Materials before your trip
Before you hit the trails, stock up on your trek's scrapbooking essentials! Grab some decorative paper, stickers, scissors, and a trusty glue stick (or a glue roller if you fancy yourself advanced). Don’t forget to bring along a portable camera or even just your smartphone to capture spontaneous moments. And remember to pack an extra envelope for collecting ticket stubs and other memorabilia - your future self will thank you when it’s time to relive those memories!
Organizing your Scrapbook for easy updates and Reminiscing
Keep it simple! Designate sections in your scrapbook for different legs of your trekking journey - maybe by day or by destination. Use dividers or colorful tabs to mark each section, making it easy to slip in your treasures as you go. And if you want to jazz it up, consider a “current favorites” page at the end of each trip, showcasing the best moments or lessons learned. Organization means less stress later on, so you can get straight to the fun part - flipping through your memories and reminiscing!
In conclusion, my scrapbook journal serves as a heartfelt reminder of my unforgettable journey through the Hida Mountains. By combining souvenirs, photographs, and personal reflections, I've created a collection that captures the essence of my adventure. I hope this inspires you to embark on your own trekking experiences and find creative ways to preserve your memories. Whether through scrapbooking or other forms of expression, cherishing the moments we experience on our journeys is what truly enriches our lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials do I need to start a scrapbook journal?
To start a scrapbook journal, you'll need basic materials like a scrapbook or journal, glue or adhesive, scissors, decorative papers, markers, and any memorabilia you want to include, such as ticket stubs and photos.
How to organize the content in my scrapbook?
You can organize your scrapbook by chronologically documenting your trip, grouping items by theme (such as nature, culture, or personal reflections), or using a combination of both for a more dynamic layout.
What are some creative ways to display ticket stubs and souvenirs?
Consider creating pockets or envelopes within your scrapbook for ticket stubs, using washi tape to adhere souvenirs, or designing a collage that highlights multiple items in one visually appealing section.
Can I include digital photos in my scrapbook?
Absolutely! You can print digital photos to include in your scrapbook. Or, you could create a digital scrapbook using an app that allows for creative layouts, or an online platform for easy sharing.
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