Chubusangaku National Park Otari, Nagano
Explore the Japanese alps of Chubusangaku National Park and discover breathtaking mountains covering the entire Northern Alps region of Japan.
Chubusangaku National Park is made up of a number of mountains rising 3,000 meters above sea level. To acquaint yourself with the area, an eco-tour from Taisho Pond to Kappa Bridge with a local guide is highly recommended and you'll get an insider's perspective about Kamikochi’s nature.
Mountain hiking tours of the Japanese Alps and group tours are also available and many tracks are accessible via public transportation and visitors can enjoy a view of the mountainous landscape and observe various alpine animals and plants without any strenuous hiking.
For something special for the whole family, the frozen Zengoro Falls; one of the Three Waterfalls of Norikura, at night is a must visit! The night tour includes lighting equipment to illuminate the frozen waterfall and the spectacular scenery accessible only with snowshoes.
For those who can't let go of creature comforts can enjoy high-quality local food and drinks amidst nature with a personalised star-gazing tour. The restaurant (yes you read correctly), is located in the lush nature of Chubusangaku National Park, and guests can relish in delicious alcoholic beverages made from nature’s bounties in the mountains and meals prepared with local ingredients.
A snowshoeing tour of the snow-covered Alps is available dependent on the weather and snow conditions, but the Kamoshika (Serow) ski slope course, which is 1,700 meters above sea level, is a popular choice, as well as the frozen Hirayu. After a hard day snowshoeing, refresh the body and soul in the free-flowing hot spring water of Hirayu Onsen.
For amazing views, take the Shinhotaka Ropeway, running in the Alps and located in Okuhida Onsengo Hot Spring Village, famous as one of Japan’s best onsen resorts.
From Tokyo – train to Nagano (1 hour 22 min), Bus to Hakuba-Happo bus terminal (I hour 15 min), taxi to Chūbu-Sangaku National Park (10.6km).
There is no entry fee or permit required for Chubusangaku National Park. Please check the website for individual activity prices.
Japan National Parks
japan.travel/national-parks/