Mt. Shibutsu, Starting at Hatomachi Pass (Loop)

Descending the boardwalk and stairs from Hatomachi Pass (Hatomachi-toge), you arrive at Yamanohana. It's a fine place for a break with a toilet, a mountain hut, and a visitor center. From there, continue across the marsh on the double-track boardwalk.

At the end of the wetland, leave the boardwalk and start hiking the mountain trail. Ascend the stairs and the stone path through the forest for a while. When the trail turns to continuous boardwalk and stairs, shrubs will become more prominent and the scenery will open up. Mt. Shibutsu consists largely of a stone called serpentinite, and as more of it becomes exposed on the trail, it proceeds through a landscape of creeping pines. At this point the slope becomes gradually steeper and there are even chains at one location to help you along. Alternating between serpentinite trail and wooden steps, you arrive at Takamagahara. The peak visible from there is a false summit.

You need to pass over it and hike further to reach the top of Mt. Shibutsu. After hiking to the summit, descend the serpentinite trail through the creeping pines towards Mt. Koshibutsu (Koshinbutsu-san). Hike it and then descend the boardwalk that will bring you to Oyamasawa-tashiro. The trail continues to descend among sasa bamboo and enters forest of Maries' fir trees. You then continue along the boardwalk with a mountainous view that includes Mt. Hotaka (Hotaka-yama) through broadleaf forest until you arrive back at Hatamachi Pass.