Mt. Ibuki
Day HikeKansai(Shiga)
ModerateDistance
8 km
Elevation Gain
1150m
Max Elevation
1377m
Duration
6h
Kansai(Shiga)
ModerateDistance
8 km
Elevation Gain
1150m
Max Elevation
1377m
Duration
6h
Plan your Kumano Kodo pilgrimage walk through the mountains of the Kii Peninsula. This guide covers the four main routes, multi-day itineraries, accommodation, and the dual pilgrim stamp system.
Discover Japan in its quietest, most dramatic season. This guide covers winter hiking from gentle snowshoe walks to serious mountaineering, including the best cold-weather trails and essential gear.
Japan has wonderful hiking trails for families. This guide covers the best kid-friendly trails near major cities, what to pack, safety tips, and how to keep children engaged on the trail.
Tallest mountain in Shiga Prefecture with alpine meadows and panoramic views.
Mt. Ibuki (1,377m) straddles the border of Shiga and Gifu Prefectures and is famous for holding Japan's snowfall record. The mountain offers a straightforward but rewarding climb through distinct vegetation zones, from forests to alpine meadows blanketed with wildflowers in summer. The summit plateau provides expansive views of Lake Biwa, Japan's largest lake, and the surrounding mountains.
July to October, summer wildflowers best
Panoramic views of Lake Biwa; Alpine wildflower meadows in summer; Distinct vegetation zones on ascent; Historic significance in Japanese mythology; Snow-covered summit in winter
Take the JR Tokaido Line to Omi-Nagaoka Station (about 10 minutes from Maibara). The trailhead is a 15-minute taxi ride or bus ride from the station. A toll road (Ibuki Driveway) reaches near the summit by car (seasonal).
The trail is steep and exposed with little shade in summer—bring sun protection and ample water. Winter conditions are severe with deep snow. Lightning is a risk on the exposed upper section. The Ibuki Driveway closes in winter. Strong winds are common near the summit.
Mt. Ibuki is rated as moderate difficulty.
Mt. Ibuki is 8 km long.
The elevation gain on Mt. Ibuki is 1150 meters.
Hiking Mt. Ibuki typically takes about 6 hours.
The best season to hike Mt. Ibuki is July to October, summer wildflowers best.
Mt. Ibuki is located in Shiga, Kansai region of Japan.
Mt. Ibuki is a day_hike trail.
Warnings for Mt. Ibuki: The trail is steep and exposed with little shade in summer—bring sun protection and ample water. Winter conditions are severe with deep snow. Lightning is a risk on the exposed upper section. The Ibuki Driveway closes in winter. Strong winds are common near the summit..
Access information for Mt. Ibuki: Take the JR Tokaido Line to Omi-Nagaoka Station (about 10 minutes from Maibara). The trailhead is a 15-minute taxi ride or bus ride from the station. A toll road (Ibuki Driveway) reaches near the summit by car (seasonal)..
The maximum elevation on Mt. Ibuki is 1377 meters.
Mt. Ibuki is rated moderate, making it accessible for hikers of that level.
For Mt. Ibuki, proper hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Check warnings: The trail is steep and exposed with little shade in summer—bring sun protection and ample water. Winter conditions are severe with deep snow. Lightning is a risk on the exposed upper section. The Ibuki Driveway closes in winter. Strong winds are common near the summit..
Highlights of Mt. Ibuki include: Panoramic views of Lake Biwa; Alpine wildflower meadows in summer; Distinct vegetation zones on ascent; Historic significance in Japanese mythology; Snow-covered summit in winter.
Access to Mt. Ibuki: Take the JR Tokaido Line to Omi-Nagaoka Station (about 10 minutes from Maibara). The trailhead is a 15-minute taxi ride or bus ride from the station. A toll road (Ibuki Driveway) reaches near the summit by car (seasonal)..
The best season for Mt. Ibuki is July to October, summer wildflowers best. Check conditions before hiking in winter.