Utsukushigahara:Enjoying the Changing Seasons

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This entry is part 1 of 10 in the series Trekking Japan’s Scenic Seasons　１

Mio’s Introduction to Utsukushigahara

Hello, I’m Mio! Today, I’d like to introduce you to one of my favorite places, Utsukushigahara.

Exploring Nature’s Treasure: Utsukushigahara Trekking Overview: Utsukushigahara, located in Nagano Prefecture, is a highland area over 2000 meters above sea level, offering some of Japan’s most breathtaking scenery. With its expansive grasslands, panoramic views of the Alps, and beautiful seasonal landscapes, Utsukushigahara is an ideal destination for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts.

History and Fun Facts

Utsukushigahara has been a sacred place for centuries, known for its significance in mountain worship. The summit, Ougatou, once housed shrines dedicated to the gods, attracting many pilgrims. Additionally, the Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum is one of the highest museums in the world, situated at an altitude of 2000 meters.

Spring in Utsukushigahara

Spring in Utsukushigahara brings fresh greenery and blooming alpine flowers. The highland is adorned with flowers like mizubasho and katakuri, signaling the arrival of spring with a refreshing breeze. Trails reopen after the winter season, attracting many hikers.

Summer in Utsukushigahara

Summer in Utsukushigahara features cool weather and lush green grasslands. It is a popular summer retreat, perfect for trekking in the pleasant breeze. Visitors can enjoy the serene sight of grazing cows in the meadows, making for a relaxing experience.

Autumn in Utsukushigahara

Autumn in Utsukushigahara is highlighted by stunning autumn foliage, captivating visitors. The best time to visit is from mid-October to early November, when the highland is beautifully colored in red and yellow. Hiking in the crisp autumn air provides a refreshing experience for both body and mind.

Winter in Utsukushigahara

Winter in Utsukushigahara offers serene, snow-covered landscapes. Visitors can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, immersing themselves in the winter nature. The Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum provides a unique winter attraction with its outdoor sculptures.

Nearby Attractions

  • Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum: An outdoor museum displaying numerous sculptures, blending art with nature.
  • Utsukushi-no-Tou: A symbolic tower of Utsukushigahara, offering stunning panoramic views.
  • Ougatou Hotel: Located at an altitude of 2034 meters, this hotel allows guests to fully enjoy the natural beauty of Utsukushigahara.

Access Public Transportation:

  • Train and Bus:
    • From Tokyo, take the Nagano Shinkansen to Ueda Station, then take a bus to Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum. From the museum, you can enjoy trekking in the highlands.

Note: Since Japanese rail and bus schedules are subject to change, please check with the respective railway and bus companies for the most up-to-date information.

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Trekking Japan’s Scenic Seasons　１
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