Shin-Hotaka Hike to Kamikochi in early May

Is it possible to hike from the peak of Shin-Hotaka Ropeway to Kamikochi in early May? Is the trail still full of snow and too slippery for trekking?

No, it is not possible until late June or July.

Hi, Mei san. I'm an every-weekend hiker and once went through the same trail in autumn you are planning.
It is very true as you imagine. You should be experienced in snow trekking and have a pair of crampon (with more than 8 points, just in case) and stocks, as the trail down to Kamikochi is not popular for hikers in winter as it is through the deep forest and has a little of view.

Yet, only if you don't mind hiking in snow, I'd recommend you to head to Nishiho-Sanso, a mountain lodge on the ridge line (www.nishiho.com), or to Mt. Maruyama, which is a small peak on the way to Mt. Nishiho, and back to the ropeway station. The scenery is awsome :)

I'm thinking of hiking to the lodge in mid apr. May I know where I can get crampons in that area or in kyoto or osaka? Thanks.

Hi, Ron.
I guess you mean the lodge for Nishiho-sanso. A rental of Mountain equipments is not popular here in Japan, so all I know where to rent them is an online store at http://www.yamarent.com/ The store is located in Tokyo.

They have each crampon with 6 to 12 points, but I don't know if it fits your shoe size, and it would be better to ask the lodge via e-mail which one you have to choose.