Mt. Ontake on the Gifu Prefecture side, the mysterious and spectacular “Dragon Eye” is now at its best!
*The images were taken in the past.
The “Dragon Eye” is a mysterious phenomenon that can be seen at the Sannoike Pond located near the summit of Mt. Ontake at an altitude of approximately 2,700 meters. It is named after the bright cobalt blue color of the melting snow and the white snow remaining in the center, which looks like the eyes of a dragon. It is an artwork woven by nature that can only be seen at this time of the year.

■ Current viewing time
As of May 27, several climbers’ records confirm that the dragon eye on Mt. Ontake is at its best!
If you miss this opportunity, please come early as the snow will melt.

■ Access and time required (approximate)
When aiming for the dragon eye from the Gifu Prefecture side, climbing from the Nigorigo-Onsen trailhead is the most common route.
The approximate time required to reach the trailhead: From the Nigorigo-Onsen trailhead, it takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to reach the Nozoki Iwa refuge hut, which is located just before the 8th station. From there, it takes longer to reach the Gonoike Hut and then the Sannoike Pond. In total, it should take about 4 hours one way (depending on your fitness and pace).
We recommend staying at Nigorigo Onsen or Ontake Nigorigo High Altitude Training Center to make the climb easier. Please contact each facility directly for details.

Accommodation information for the Hida-Osaka area
https://hidaosaka-kanko.com/accommodations_e/
Ontake Nigorigo High Altitude Training Center
https://nigorigo.jp/english/

We welcome not only athletes but also general guests.

■ About parking
There is a parking lot for climbers (about 40 cars) at the Nigorigo Onsen trailhead, but it is very crowded during the peak season. The parking lot is very crowded during the peak season, especially on weekends and holidays, when the lot is likely to be full even early in the morning.

■ Prohibition of Roadside Parking
**Please do not park on the street**
Parking on the street in areas other than parking spaces is not only a nuisance to other climbers and local residents, but is also very dangerous and obstructs traffic. Please be sure to use the designated parking spaces.
If the parking lot is full, please consider using the Nigorigo Onsen municipal parking lot (approx. 70 cars) located a short distance away (approx. 20-minute walk to the trailhead).

Please note the following precautions for hikers:
Climbing gear: Be sure to wear shoes and clothing suitable for hiking.
Slippery surfaces: Be careful of lingering snow and slush.
Check the trail: Check the regulation information in advance.
Protecting nature: Always take trash home with you and respect nature.
Take care of your health: Plan accordingly and have the courage to turn back if you feel unwell.
Information Gathering: Check the latest weather forecast and climbing information.
Cell phone reception: Connection may be difficult near the summit.
Submit a mountaineering report: Gifu Prefecture requires that you submit a mountaineering report. Please be sure to submit it.

Gifu Prefecture Mountain Distress Prevention Ordinance

https://www.pref.gifu.lg.jp/page/11975.html

Currently, Mt. Ontake is at Eruption Alert Level 1 (note that it is an active volcano). A warning zone has been established around the crater, but it is still possible to enter the Sannoike area where Dragon Eye is located. However, please be aware that it is an active volcano, check the latest information, and enjoy climbing the mountain safely.

[Mt. Ontake] Eruption Alert Level lowered to 1│Tourist facilities are operating as usual.

【御嶽山】噴火警戒レベル1に引き下げ│観光関連施設は通常通り営業中です