The thing to do in these parts is, naturally, to climb up to the summit. Figure on 3 hours for the ascent and at least 2 hours for the descent. There are lockers at the ropeway station if you want to leave excess weight behind, although they are too small for most rucksacks; ask nicely and maybe the staff will stow your gear for you.
The actual trail starts at JÅju, through a torii gate marked with the characters ç»å±±å£ tÅzanguchi. The initial section of the trail in fact descends for the first kilometer, back down to 1300m.
HatchÅzaka
From the saddle point HatchÅzaka å «ä¸å starts an endless series of tiring wooden steps built into the mountainside to prevent erosion and landslides. Note that you will see a set of chains here, but the 74 meter climb will only get you to a narrow peak of rocks with a beautiful view, and then you must climb back down.
Yoakashi Pass
After an hour of slogging through the forest, you'll reach reach the Yoakashi Pass å¤æããå³ Yoakashi-tÅge, c. 1600m and see the last bit of Ishizuchi-san in front of you. Remaining distance to the peak is one kilometer, and remaining elevation to climb is 300 meters. There is a barebones camp site not far from here, with no facilities other than a patch of grass, and you probably don't want to lug a tent and sleeping bag up here.