In the third installment of our series, I’d like to share my experience at the Asahi Hut Campground, which I visited last summer.
The Asahi hut is located at the northernmost point of the Northern Alps and nestled in the treasure trove of alpine flora, Asahi Hut can be found on Asahi-dake (2,418m), just below the summit on a plateau known as Asahi-daira. It serves as a vital point along the extensive vertical trail network, and its distinctive red triangular roof stands as a beacon, keeping a watchful eye over the safety of mountaineers.
Originally, I had planned a mountain trekking expedition that would take me from Renge Onsen to Asahi-dake, Yuki-kura-dake, and then on to Shirouma-dake. However, the weather forecast for the second day wasn’t promising, and considering the long distance for a single-day trek with camping gear, I decided to stay at the Asahi Hut Campground for two nights instead and focus on the Renge Onsen to Asahi-dake leg of the journey.
Asahi Hut is quite remote from everywhere else, and since I had made the effort to get there, I decided to indulge in a luxurious two-night camping experience with my tent, enjoying the company of fellow hikers, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations.
On the morning of the first night, I leisurely enjoyed my breakfast, had a coffee break, and even joined the hut staff in their radio calisthenics routine. It felt like I was briefly living the life of someone who calls the mountains home.
(Note: “Radio calisthenics” is a popular form of exercise in Japan, often performed outdoors and led by an instructor’s voice on a radio broadcast.)
The Asahi Hut’s campground is spacious and not overly crowded, offering a serene setting to witness the beautiful sunset over the Sea of Japan. The sight of steam rising from the snowfields, combined with the stunning sunset, creates a magical atmosphere that leaves all mountaineers in awe.
Water is readily available, and at Asahi Hut, they offer a variety of delicious items for sale. However, on our trip, we had carried quite a bit of our own food supplies, which made for a rather heavy load during the hike. In the end, we didn’t end up buying anything from the hut.
For future female hikers planning to visit, it might be a good idea to purchase food supplies at the hut for a lighter backpack while hiking.
When I reached the summit of Mt. Asahi, it was completely obscured by thick fog, and I couldn’t see anything at all. However, when I stopped by on my way back, the sky had cleared up, and all the climbers at the summit were beaming with joy. Clear weather truly enhances the mountain experience.
It seems that just before we arrived, there was a Brocken specter phenomenon. I couldn’t help but regret not leaving a bit earlier to witness it, but considering the incredible panoramic view we eventually enjoyed, I can’t complain.
A little further down from the summit of Asahi-dake, there was a snowfield where clouds began to billow up, creating an indescribably beautiful scene that left me speechless.
The trail to Renge Onsen, both on the way there and back, is undeniably quite long. It’s natural to feel that way, but the sight of the Renge Onsen Lodge’s building in the distance serves as a beacon, even though it takes some time to reach.
I also visited Renge Onsen two years in a row. In 2021, after going to Hakuba Oike, I enjoyed hopping around the different outdoor baths. I’m quite fond of the hot springs here. The outdoor baths offer majestic views and provide a soothing experience, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after relieving the fatigue from the mountains.
If you ever have the chance, it’s a place worth returning to again for a relaxing soak in the hot springs.
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