Onsen, skiing, and adventure on japan‘s third highest volcano
Located on the border with Gifu Prefecture, Mt. Norikura and the Norikura Highland area are well worth exploring if you find yourself in the Matsumoto region. The area offers plentiful hot springs and a fantastic variety of outdoor activities year-round.
The Norikura Highland area is easily accessible from Matsumoto Station, which is a major transport hub in the region. From Tokyo, Nagano, or Nagoya, you can reach Matsumoto Station on JR lines. If you’re coming from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station, you can take the JR Chuo Line limited express for Matsumoto. From Nagoya, you can take the JR Shinano Limited Express line for Nagano. And if you’re leaving from Nagano, you can take the same JR Shinano Limited Express line heading to Nagoya. There’s also a convenient bus service from Takayama in neighboring Gifu Prefecture. Once you’re in Matsumoto, you can take a train to Shin-Shimashima and then transfer to a bus for the Norikura Highland’s Kanko Center Mae. Alternatively, you can rent a car to explore the area at your own pace.
The Norikura Highland area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of opportunities for mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, and trekking. The area is particularly popular for hiking, with buses running to the Norikura Bus Terminal located near the summit of Mt. Norikura. This is one of Japan’s highest roads, and private cars are prohibited. From the bus terminal, it’s about an hour and a half hike to Kengamine, Norikura’s highest peak. The breathtaking views from the summit make the hike well worth it.
One unique feature of the Norikura Highland area is the Big Snowy Valley, located along the northeastern section of the mountain. This area is permanently covered in snow, making it a popular destination for skiing even in the summer. Visitors can hike up the trail and then ski down the mountainside, enjoying the thrill of skiing all year round.
In addition to hiking and skiing, there are many other outdoor activities to enjoy in the Norikura Highland area. The Bandokoro and Zengoro waterfalls and Ushidome Pond offer beautiful woodland hikes, with stunning views of nature. The Sanbondaki triple waterfall, located about a half-hour hike from the Sanbondaki bus stop, is another must-see sight in the area.
For sports enthusiasts, the Norikura area hosts several high-profile events. The Heavenly Marathon, which crosses portions of Norikura’s snow corridor, is a challenging race that attracts athletes from all over the world. In August, the All Japan Norikura Mountain Cycling Race takes place, where competitors charge up the mountain on their bikes.
If you’re a ski enthusiast, the Mt. Norikura Snow Resort is a must-visit destination. Known for its great conditions and fluffy white powder, the resort offers 20 courses, including a long run of 5.0 kilometers. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skier, there are runs suitable for all levels. The resort also has a kids’ park, making it a great destination for families.
After a day of outdoor activities, there’s nothing better than soaking in a hot spring to relax and rejuvenate. Shirahone Onsen is one of Nagano’s most famous hot spring resorts, located in the Yugawa river valley. The mineral-laden grey-white geothermal water in Shirahone is renowned for its therapeutic properties. The silky pools provide a truly unique and relaxing experience.
If you’re looking to explore more hot springs, the Norikura area has many other options. Some of these hot springs are fed by the same thermal springs as Shirahone, offering a similar experience. Many of the inns in Shirahone Onsen allow day visitors to use their facilities, and there is also a public bath near the village center. Staying at a traditional ryokan inn, wearing a yukata robe, and dining on local cuisine are all part of the full Japanese hot spring experience.
In conclusion, the Norikura Highland area offers a wide range of activities and attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, skiing, or relaxing in hot springs, this area has something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty and convenient access from major cities, it’s no wonder that Mt. Norikura and the Norikura Highland area are becoming increasingly popular among both domestic and international travelers. So, if you’re looking for an adventure in Japan, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this hidden gem.
Address And Maps Location:
Azumi, Matsumoto-shi, Nagano-ken
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