Aikodake is not one of the highest mountains on the island, but it has to be one of the steepest. Aikodake is 1,235 metres and dominates the skyline around the airport area. From the airport it is a 10 min drive to the trailhead near the Koseda Junior High School (小瀬田中学校).
If you are looking for peace and solitude then this is the trek for you as you will likely have this mountain to yourself. The return trek takes around 8 hours, but if the weather is good then you may decide to spend longer on the summit as the views are fantastic. From the top you have a 360 panorama from the coastline to the highest peaks on the island – Miyanouradake. For 2 – 3 hours the climb is a steady ascent and the final hour is spent on the rock face of the summit, using ropes on a few occasions. The pink ribbons tied to the trees marking the route to the top are sometimes difficult to keep in eyesight. There are very few trekkers on this mountain and the climb is spent mostly on a ridge, so caution and good preparation are necessary. And don’t not forget to take plenty of liquid on this hike as there are no water sources on this mountain.
This alpine-looking mountain is the pilgrimage destination for the village of Koseda. There is a small hokora at the summit. There is also a tale as to why this mountain is named after a girl as previously it went under the name of Arai San (荒井山).
This trail is not often walked and the trailhead is difficult to find. Aside from information and explanations along the way, as well as ensuring a safe ascent & descent, the YES guide could save quite a lot of time just finding the mountain entry location
Book an Aikodake Tour with YES and we’ll be happy to help you with your Toppy jetfoil reservation
