Top 20 Mountain Passes in Japan

Amazing snow walls can be seen in the end of April and the beginning of May. One of the best hill climb routes in Nagano.

Shibu Pass is a well-known mountain pass in Japan, located at an elevation of 2,172 meters and representing the highest point of any national highway in Japan. National Highway 292, which runs through the Shiga Kogen region, offers cyclists a challenge and breathtaking views. The climb from Kusatsu to Shibu Pass is approximately 20 km long and offers an average gradient of 5-6%. The maximum gradient is 11%, making the ride even more challenging. The road is paved and provides a good surface for cycling. The gradients are challenging, but the views are breathtaking. The ride to Shibu Pass offers breathtaking mountain scenery and a variety of natural attractions. The Shiga Kogen region is known for its volcanic activity and offers a unique landscape. Shibu Pass is a highlight for cyclists and a must-see for anyone looking for a challenge. The views from Shibu Pass are breathtaking and offer views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The Tsuetsuki Pass (Japanese: 杖突峠, Tsuetsuki-tōge) is a mountain pass in Japan, located in Nagano Prefecture. The pass is known for its scenic beauty and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Tsuetsuki Pass has an elevation of approximately 1,247 meters above sea level. It is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists who want to experience the beauty of Japanese nature. Approaching the pass from the south, it is approximately 9 kilometers long with an average gradient of 4%, but a maximum gradient of 12%.

Riding National Route 152 up to Tsuetsuki-tōge (1,247 m) is the longest and hardest climb on the Akiha Kodō pilgrimage route. On a winding two-lane stretch of 6 kilometers, you must gain 390 meters in elevation. One kilometer before the pass there is a rest stop (Tōge-no-chaya) with a café, a soba noodle restaurant, and a stunning view of the Suwa basin. On some days there is considerable motorized traffic. Cars and trucks will be over taking you fast, so this climb is not for the faint of heart.

Otome Pass (Otome-toge) is located on the border between Kanagawa and Shizuoka prefectures in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is known as one of the “3 best spots to view Mt. Fuji”.

Route up from Itsukaichi has been improved and is now good for road bikes although there are still many potholes and gravelly areas so descending towards Itsukaichi needs care. Route from Hachiouji is quite smooth, has some great views especially near the Iriyama Tunnel but watch out for rock slides. Both have some steep parts but are doable with a wide range of gears. Gates are generally shut on both sides and you are asked to refrain from going up - cyclists don't seem to get stopped so I assume it's more for motorbikes etc.

Wada Pass from the main Hachiouji side is a very well kept road with big sweeping corners. It is a quite steep in parts and there isn't much of a view at the top. From the top you can continue over towards Fujino and Lake Sagami-ko. You can also park your bike here and walk up to the top of Mt Jimba for some great views. The cafe at Wada Pass states that there is a fee for parking your bicycle there but I have never been asked to pay. Wada Pass may also be accessed from the Daigo line which is longer, with some very steep sections and is a rindo (mountain way) so not very well kept and progress can be hard. The last 100m is a gravel track. Descending from Wada Pass on either side is very fast so care and attention is needed as there are often hikers, cyclists and motor vehicles also using the route.

This route, which zigzags along a ridge from 1,300m to 1,700m above sea level, is popular as a driving course with spectacular views leading to the sky. On a clear day, you can see not only the Ishizuchi Mountain range but also the Pacific Ocean. Be prepared for fog, rain and wind.