Overview: 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.