Spots List

Maime-no-ike Pond

Maime-no-ike Pond

A small, tranquil pond in Norikura Kogen known for its mirror-like surface that perfectly reflects the surrounding white birch trees and Mt. Norikura. It is particularly famous among photographers during the autumn season, when the colorful foliage creates a surreal and artistic reflection on the water. The pond is part of a gentle walking loop, offering a quiet moment of reflection and a chance to experience the delicate beauty of Nagano’s highland nature in a very intimate setting.

Nagano
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Sanbon-taki Waterfalls

Sanbon-taki Waterfalls

A spectacular natural site where three distinct waterfalls, each originating from a different river, converge at a single point. Selected as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, it offers a powerful and refreshing display of nature's force. Visitors can reach the falls via a scenic hiking trail through ancient forests. The contrast between the three unique styles of water flow and the rugged volcanic rocks creates a mesmerizing scene, especially beautiful during the fresh greenery of spring or the autumn leaf season.

Nagano
Sightseeing
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Ichinose Enchi

A vast and picturesque meadow in Norikura Kogen, famous for its iconic "Lone Birch Tree" and stunning views of Mt. Norikura. The area features gentle walking trails through wetlands and forests, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. In early summer, the fields are covered with beautiful wildflowers, while autumn brings brilliant colors to the surrounding mountains. It is a peaceful spot where you can enjoy a picnic or simply soak in the pure alpine atmosphere.

Nagano
Sightseeing
Activities
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kyukamura Norikura-Kogen

Kyukamura Norikura-Kogen

A welcoming resort hotel located within the vast Norikura Kogen Highlands, serving as a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts. It is famous for its milky-white natural hot springs and proximity to trekking trails, waterfalls, and ski slopes. The hotel offers a variety of nature-themed activities and serves hearty meals featuring local Shinshu products. Surrounded by white birch forests and overlooking the majestic Mt. Norikura, it is an ideal spot for families and hikers who want to enjoy the diverse seasonal beauty of the mountains.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Sansuikan Yukawaso

Sansuikan Yukawaso

A unique and nostalgic inn reached by crossing a red suspension bridge over a mountain stream. The location is truly magical, offering the soothing sound of rushing water and complete immersion in nature. Famous for its multiple private hot spring baths and warm, family-like hospitality, the inn provides a cozy and rustic experience. Guests can enjoy seasonal mountain delicacies around a traditional hearth (irori). It is a hidden sanctuary for those who want to escape the modern world and feel the true spirit of old-fashioned Nagano.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shirafune Grand Hotel

Shirafune Grand Hotel

Situated on a hill overlooking the Shirahone Onsen valley, this hotel offers some of the best views in the area. It is famous for its large open-air baths where you can soak in the milky-white waters while being completely surrounded by the majestic Northern Alps. The hotel blends traditional Ryokan services with modern hotel facilities, catering to a wide range of travelers. Its cuisine, especially the "Onsen Porridge" (rice cooked in hot spring water), is a popular local delicacy that highlights the unique mineral benefits of the region.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shirahone Onsen Tsuruya

Shirahone Onsen Tsuruya

A high-quality, traditional Japanese inn in Shirahone Onsen that values the essence of "mountain hospitality." The inn features expansive baths filled with the famous milky-white mineral water, which flows directly from the source. Guests can enjoy a refined stay with spacious tatami rooms and exquisite kaiseki cuisine that focuses on the delicate flavors of Shinshu’s mountain vegetables and river fish. It offers a perfect balance of rustic charm and sophisticated comfort for a truly authentic hot spring experience.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Konashinoyu Sasaya

Konashinoyu Sasaya

A quiet, secluded inn surrounded by a beautiful white birch forest in the historic Shirahone Onsen area. This inn is famous for its private open-air bath, where guests can enjoy the milky-white waters in complete tranquility while gazing at the stars or the changing seasonal scenery. The traditional wooden architecture and the smell of the forest provide a deeply nostalgic and healing atmosphere. It is an ideal retreat for couples and travelers seeking a private, intimate connection with nature.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Shirahone Onsen

Shirahone Onsen

A historic hot spring hidden in a deep mountain valley, famous for its milky-white, opaque mineral waters. The name "Shirahone" (White Bone) comes from the white calcium deposits that form on the bathtubs over time. It is a legendary healing spot where the saying goes, "Soak for three days and you won't catch a cold for three years." Surrounded by the rustic beauty of the Northern Alps, it offers a serene and authentic atmosphere for those seeking deep relaxation and the therapeutic benefits of nature’s pure minerals.

Nagano
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Ougato Hotel

Perched at the very summit of Utsukushigahara at 2,034m, this hotel offers one of the most spectacular hotel stays in Japan. It is famous for providing front-row seats to the sun rising over a sea of clouds and the Milky Way stretching across the night sky. With no other buildings around, guests can enjoy an uninterrupted 360-degree view of the Northern, Central, and Southern Alps. The hotel provides unique programs like snowcat tours in winter and nature walks, making it a dream destination for those wanting to wake up in the heart of the sky.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum

Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum

A unique open-air museum located at an altitude of 2,000m on the Utsukushigahara Highlands. Over 350 contemporary sculptures are scattered across the vast grassy plains, creating a stunning dialogue between art and the dynamic alpine scenery. Visitors can enjoy walking through the outdoor gallery while taking in a 360-degree panorama of the Japanese Alps and often a spectacular sea of clouds. It is a place where creative artistic expression meets the overwhelming scale of nature, offering a truly inspiring experience for visitors of all ages.

Nagano
Sightseeing
Activities
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tobira Onsen Myojinkan

Tobira Onsen Myojinkan

A world-renowned luxury retreat and member of Relais & Châteaux, hidden deep in a valley at an altitude of 1,050m. Surrounded by lush national park forests, the inn is famous for its "Standing Bath" where you can soak in hot springs while feeling completely integrated with the surrounding nature. The cuisine is exceptional, featuring organic French and creative Japanese dishes made from local herbs and vegetables. It offers a sophisticated and peaceful escape for travelers seeking ultimate wellness and refined hospitality in a secluded setting.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kamikochi Myojinkan

Kamikochi Myojinkan

A historic mountain lodge located in the sacred Myojin area, the spiritual heart of Kamikochi. It is famous for offering the exclusive privilege of witnessing the "Morning Glow" on Mt. Myojin, where the granite peaks turn a brilliant gold at sunrise. Away from the daytime crowds of the Kappa Bridge, guests can enjoy the profound silence of the mountains and starlit nights. It is an ideal sanctuary for hikers and nature lovers seeking a deep, spiritual connection with the pristine alpine wilderness.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

KAI Matsumoto

A luxury boutique hot spring ryokan operated by Hoshino Resorts, celebrating the rich musical and artistic culture of Matsumoto. The architecture features striking contemporary design with traditional motifs, including a stunning lobby where nightly concerts are held. Guests can experience eight different types of hot spring baths and enjoy colorful kaiseki meals served on exquisite local ceramics. It offers a sophisticated and artistic retreat that perfectly reflects the refined and creative spirit of the city.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Matsumoto Jujo

A groundbreaking "renovation" hotel project in Asama Onsen that has transformed historic inns into modern, stylish lifestyle hubs. It consists of two main buildings: "Matsumoto Honbako," a paradise for book lovers with a vast library, and "Koyagi," a tranquil space focused on relaxation. The project combines contemporary design with local history, offering creative cuisine and unique spa experiences. It is a must-visit destination for modern travelers seeking inspiration and a new way to experience traditional hot spring culture.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Fujinoyu

An elegant and refined hot spring inn located in Asama Onsen, cherished for its artistic atmosphere and long history. The inn is decorated with beautiful seasonal flowers and traditional crafts, reflecting the true aesthetic of Japanese hospitality. It features private reservable baths, allowing guests to enjoy the healing waters in complete privacy. The meticulously prepared cuisine highlights the delicate flavors of Nagano’s mountains, offering a deeply satisfying and spiritual retreat for sophisticated travelers.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Asama Onsen Umenoyu

Asama Onsen Umenoyu

A charming and intimate hot spring inn with a history spanning over 100 years in the historic Asama Onsen district. It is famous for its warm, personalized hospitality and its beautiful wooden architecture that evokes the atmosphere of old Japan. The inn features tranquil baths and serves home-style kaiseki meals prepared with seasonal local products. It is a perfect hidden gem for travelers who prefer a quiet, authentic, and traditional Japanese inn experience over large, modern hotels.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Utsukushigahara Onsen Shoho

Utsukushigahara Onsen Shoho

A premier hot spring resort in Matsumoto that offers a panoramic view of the Northern Alps. Known for its grand scale and high-end hospitality, the hotel features a variety of baths including an expansive open-air bath where you can relax while admiring the majestic mountains. It is a perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional Japanese "Ryokan" spirit. Guests can enjoy exquisite kaiseki cuisine made with local Shinshu ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a luxurious and rejuvenating retreat.

Nagano
Accommodation
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Mt. Yarigatake

Known as the "Matterhorn of Japan," Mt. Yarigatake is famous for its sharp, spear-like peak that pierces the sky at an altitude of 3,180 meters. It is a dream destination for hikers and mountaineers due to its iconic silhouette and challenging ascent. From the summit, you can enjoy an unparalleled 360-degree panorama of the entire Northern Alps. Standing at its peak is considered a rite of passage for serious climbers, offering a profound sense of achievement and a breathtaking view of Japan’s most majestic mountains.

Nagano
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Dakesawa Marsh

A hidden natural gem in Kamikochi, featuring a mosaic of clear streams, lush moss, and pristine wetlands. It offers one of the best views of the surrounding mountains, especially when the fresh spring greenery or autumn colors are reflected in the small pools of water. Standing on the wooden boardwalks, visitors can enjoy the gentle sounds of water and birdsong in a tranquil setting. It is a perfect spot for nature observation and photography, capturing the quiet and delicate side of the alpine landscape.

Nagano
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Myojin Pond

A sacred pond located within the Inner Shrine of Hotaka Shrine, known for its mystical atmosphere and "gourd" shape. The crystal-clear water reflects the majestic Myojin-dake peak, creating a scene of divine beauty that feels like a landscape painting. Every October, a traditional Shinto festival is held here with ritual boats on the pond. It is a powerful "spiritual spot" where the purity of nature meets ancient religious traditions, offering peace and clarity to all who visit.

Nagano
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Kamonji-goya

A historic mountain hut located near Myojin Pond, founded by the legendary mountain guide Kamonji Kamijo. It is world-famous for its traditional hearth (irori), where fresh river trout (Iwana) are grilled to perfection over charcoal. For over a century, this hut has welcomed mountaineers and visitors with its rustic charm and authentic alpine hospitality. Eating freshly grilled fish while feeling the history of Japan’s mountain culture is a truly unique and soulful experience.

Nagano
Sightseeing
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Tashiro Pond

A shallow, crystal-clear pond nestled in the wetlands of Kamikochi, famous for its tranquil beauty and vibrant seasonal colors. Surrounded by lush marshes, the pond stays clear throughout the year, reflecting the sky and nearby peaks like a mirror. In autumn, the surrounding larch trees turn golden, creating a breathtaking contrast with the pristine water. It is a peaceful sanctuary where visitors can experience the delicate harmony of Nagano’s alpine nature.

Nagano
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Taisho Pond

A mystical pond formed by the volcanic eruption of Mt. Yakedake, famous for the sunken trees that stand in its clear turquoise waters. The reflection of the Hotaka Mountain Range on its calm surface is one of the most iconic sights in Kamikochi. Especially in the early morning, the area is often shrouded in thin mist, creating a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere. It is a legendary spot for photographers and a gateway to the pristine natural beauty that awaits deeper in the valley.

Nagano
Nature
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter