Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on June 2010

Where: Mt. Ougiyama (1,138m) and Momokurasan (1,003m), Yamanashi Prefecture
Time: Approx 6 hours
Route: Take the JR Chuo line to Torisawa (approx 80min from Shinjuku). Head straight out of the station, pausing at the convenience store to get last-minute provisions, and follow the signs for Mt. Ougiyama (扇山). The first hour or so is on roads, after which you’ll hit the trail proper. On clear days, there are good views of Mt. Fuji from both peaks, with Ougiyama being the more popular spot for lunch breaks. The descent on the way to Momokurasan (百蔵山) is a bit demoralizing, but you’re rewarded with glorious vistas once you get to the summit again. From there, follow the—at times perilously steep—trail down towards Saruhashi station (猿橋駅), and the long ride home.