5. Summer on Japan's Southern Alps

The Southern Alps are located in the middle of the Japanese archipelago. Mountain ranges peaking at an altitude of 3,000 meters continue for over 120 kilometers, which encompass the 3 prefectures; Yamanashi, Nagano and Shizuoka. The Southern Alps originated 40 million years ago and 100,000 climbers visit the mountains every year. Climbing the Southern Alps is best enjoyed over the course of a few days, while staying at mountain huts.