Hello, I’m Mio! Today, I will introduce Utsukushigahara in Nagano Prefecture. Utsukushigahara is a plateau about 2,000 meters above sea level, and it offers fantastic trekking courses. Here’s a 2-minute guide to trekking in Utsukushigahara.
Course Overview
The trekking courses in Utsukushigahara are designed for both beginners and advanced hikers. A recommended route starts from the Utsukushigahara Nature Conservation Center, goes through Ogatou, and ends at Utsukushi no Tou. This route is about 5.5 kilometers long and takes about 2 hours.
Highlights
- Utsukushigahara Nature Conservation Center: Start your trek here. The center has exhibits about the nature and wildlife of Utsukushigahara, which can enhance your trekking experience.
- Ogatou: Ogatou, at an altitude of 2,034 meters, is the highest point in Utsukushigahara. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Yatsugatake Mountains, Mt. Fuji, and the Northern Alps.
- Utsukushi no Tou: The end point of the trail is Utsukushi no Tou, a symbol of Utsukushigahara. The area around the tower is a vast grassland, offering beautiful scenery throughout the year. In summer, the green grassland looks like a carpet, and in autumn, the fall colors are stunning.
Tips
- Wear trekking shoes and dress according to the weather.
- Stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness.
- Take your trash with you to help protect the nature of Utsukushigahara.
Access
You can reach Utsukushigahara by bus from Matsumoto Station in about 1.5 hours. If you’re driving, it’s about 1 hour from the Nagano IC on the Joshin-Etsu Expressway.
Enjoy the beautiful nature of Utsukushigahara and have a great trekking experience!