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Precautions & Trail Rules
Climbing Precautions
◆Check the weather forecast regularly before your hike and watch especially for weather advisories and warnings. If you sense any danger or have problems while hiking, turn around and descend. Be especially alert during the following seasons.
Autumn
・In autumn the days are shorter and the weather can be unpredictable. The effects of typhoons and rapid changes in weather mean that a nice day can quickly turn dangerous. Pay close attention to weather reports and be prepared to postpone your hike in the event of bad weather.
・With changes in the weather and drops in temperature, the season on Mt. Ishizuchi can change suddenly from autumn to winter. The weather is especially unpredictable in the afternoon, so leave extra time in your schedule just in case.
Winter
The temperature drops below freezing and the mountain is covered in snow.
Even using crampons, snowy slopes become slippery and there is a greater danger of falls. Please keep the following in mind:
・Climbing in winter requires more physical strength and endurance than in summer. The sun sets very early, so leave plenty of time to descend.
・More than normal climbing, winter climbing requires extra precaution and greater technique to prevent slipping and falling. Please hike with an experienced climber or a technical instructor.
・If a member of your party has an accident, do not try to rescue them yourself. This can lead to further injury. Wait on the trail for emergency assistance to arrive.
◆Bring proper hiking gear
To ensure a safe hike, bring items including a mobile phone, map, compass, extra food, extra layers of clothing, a radio, lighter, mirror, whistle, and first-aid kit.
*Never climb without appropriate preparation and equipment. Don't get caught unprepared.
*Bring lots of water and food. (The mountain lodge and store on the summit of Mt. Ishizuchi is only open from May-October.)
*There are many insects in the summer. Items such as insect repellant, balm for stings, and face nets are highly recommended.
◆Plan a trip suited to your experience, skills, and physical ability.
◆Submit a hiking registration before your hike, especially for longer treks. These itineraries can be turned in at staffed trailheads.
◆Be especially careful when descending. When you are coming down the mountain, your spirit and body are tired, so take care!
Chains
Mt. Ishizuchi features four climbing chains that hikers can use to ascend mostly vertical rock faces. Hikers not wishing to climb the chains can use alternate trails to bypass them.
・Trial chain 74 m (Note: Part of the trial chain requires climbers to descend.)
・First chain 33 m
・Second chain 65 m
・Third chain 68 m
*The trial chain is the only one of the four that requires climbers to descend. The Tsuchigoya route includes only the second and third chains. Hikers using the Joju (Ropeway) route have access to all four chains.
Trail Rules
◆Know where the restrooms are located
◆Use the restroom before beginning your hike
◆Bring garbage bags and take your garbage off the mountain with you
◆Bring a 100 yen coin or a coupon ticket to use the environmentally friendly green toilet
◆Prepare a portable toilet to bring with you
