This year’s first backpacking trip was to Oze, which is Japan’s largest area of highland marsh and also has a variety of different wild flowers, with the most famous being the "Mizubasho”. Our course was to spend the day climbing to the top of Mt. Hiuchigatake, hike down to the highlands, and camp for the night. The next day we spent trekking through the highlands, seeing a great waterfall, and making our way back to the bus. It was a very exhausting course, where we had to hike up snow to the top of the mountain, as well as slide down some to get down the other side. However, the nature and scenery was extremely beautiful. I now know why Oze is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful and popular hiking destinations.

Starting our 2 day hike.

The famous flower, "Mizubasho”

On our way through the highlands to get to Hiuchigatake.

Climbing up snow is hard. Every time your miss your footing and slide down, you have to re-climb up the snow again.

The top! 2,356 meters.

On our way down to the highlands to set up our tent.

Taking a break. One tent for the three of us to share.

Starting off bright and early the next day.

Tired after two whole days of hiking.

For all the pictures, visit the Oze Photo Gallery