There has been an increase of people climbing Mt. Meakan during these past recent years. Due to limited parking, we recommend that visitors coming in big groups carpool together to save space. Please refrain from parking on private property, or on roads and pathways, as this may obstruct traffic or cause accidents.
Accidents involving hikers climbing Mt. Meakan
As the number of climbers has increased in recent years, accidents while climbing have been on the rise. For example, many hikers have reported leg pain while descending the mountain. Please be mindful of your own physical strength, muscle strength, skill, and experience. We highly dissuade hikers from overstraining their bodies and pushing past their limit. Reaching the summit is not as important as your health. If you cannot descend the mountain on your own, it is considered an accident.
We ask that hikers read the following points to determine whether or not to continue on with the climb.
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Do not climb when the weather is bad. If the weather turns bad on the way up, descend immediately. Be sure to check the volcano information prior to climbing.
Although Mt. Meakan is relatively easy for beginners to climb, it is a 1500 m class mountain in Hokkaido. During summer (around July), the temperature can drop to near zero degrees Celsius, however, it can also be extremely hot (over 35 degrees Celsius) depending on the weather on that day. Sudden changes in the weather can also occur at any time. Due to the mountain having a single peak, strong winds near the summit can send dust and pebbles flying. When the trees make a “whooshing” sound in the wind at the trailhead, the locals do not climb the mountain. Since this is an active volcano, please be sure to check the volcano information prior to starting the hike.
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Do not hike the mountain while wearing light clothing.
It is highly recommended that you do not wear old shoes during the hike as there is a possibility that the soles of your shoes will peel off during the hike. It is advisable that you wear newer shoes that are in top condition. There are many reticulated tree roots at the bottom of the mountain, which can be slippery, especially when wet. Near the summit, there are no trees and the ground are made up of stones and sand, making it slippery, especially on the way down. There has been an instance of a person falling down and hitting his head resulting in him having to be transported to the hospital by a helicopter. Due to the unpredictable weather, temperature, and strong wind near the summit where there are no trees, it is essential to carry rain gear during the hike. If climbing around June, it is recommended that you bring a jacket to keep you warm. In July and August, the previous day’s temperature may be above 30 degrees Celsius, but the next day may be below 10 degrees Celsius. Hikers need to be well prepared for the changing weather by bringing enough food, drinks, and other necessities. Be sure not to forget a map and a compass.
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Do not go off trail and do not collect plants or animals.
We maintain the trail every year with a distinct pink tape and rock markings to prevent hikers from getting lost. We ask that hikers do not stray from the trail for the protection of flora and fauna (plants and animals). Mt. Meakan is a national park, meaning that collecting plants and animals is strictly prohibited. We ask that hikers prepare their itinerary prior to climbing to prevent going off trail and getting lost.
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Use the restroom before starting the hike.
There are public toilets in the town near the Meakan Onsen trailhead. There is also a restroom at the campground administration building at the Onneto trailhead. There are no restrooms in the mountain, so please use the restroom before climbing the mountain. Please use portable toilets in the mountains in case of emergency. Please be sure to take your portable toilets home with you, as there are no collection boxes available.
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Climbing during the afternoon is dangerous.
Although this is a mountain that can be hiked in about 4 hours round trip by experienced and physically fit hikers, it may not be possible to descend the mountain before sunset if climbing in the afternoon due to sudden weather changes or accidents. It is advisable to climb early in the day when the weather is good. After sunset, the risk of encountering bears increases. Please allow enough time for climbing in a timely manner.