Takabocchi Plateau, which spans across Shiojiri City and Okaya City in Nagano Prefecture, is famous as a scenic spot. From this highland, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Suwa, the Japanese Alps, and even Mount Fuji in the far distance. There are various theories, but the most plausible origin of the name "Bocchi" in Takabocchi Plateau is a legend that says a giant named Daidarabotchi sat and rested here.
In this article, we will explain how to enjoy Takabocchi Highland and how to access it.
What is Takabocchi Plateau?
Takabocchi Highland is a plateau that spreads around Mount Takabocchi (elevation 1,665m). Many people visit in mid-June when the alpine plant, Rengetsu-tsutsuji (royal azalea), is in bloom and in autumn when the leaves are beautifully colored. Even in the middle of summer, Takabocchi Plateau remains cool with an average temperature in the 20 degrees Celsius range. Incidentally, the highland is closed during the winter season (early December to late April), and access is prohibited.
Takabocchi Plateau Observation Deck
There are five observation decks, including one at the summit of Mount Takabocchi, each offering a unique view. Below Mount Takabocchi lies Lake Suwa, praised as the "Suwa no Umi" (Sea of Suwa) in the prefectural song "Shinano no Kuni." Mount Fuji towers behind Lake Suwa. Takabocchi Plateau is a place where you can see the top four highest mountains in Japan (Mount Fuji, Kita-dake, Okuhotaka-dake, and Ainodake). Additionally, there is a spot in Takabocchi Plateau known as the "Three Great Elevations Love Vow Viewpoint." This is also an ideal place for couples to pledge their eternal love.
Night view of Takabocchi Plateau
In the evening, you can see the city lights along the shores of Lake Suwa. It's nice to forget the hustle and bustle of the city and watch the sun slowly set. Note that Takabocchi Plateau is dark at night, so don't forget to bring a flashlight. From mid-October until the Takabocchi Plateau closes in December, you have a high chance of seeing the sea of clouds. To see the sea of clouds, it is recommended to go between 30 minutes before and 30 minutes after sunrise.
Ranch on the Takabocchi Plateau
During the summer, you can spot dairy cows grazing in the pastures of Takabocchi Highland. Let's watch them from a distance and gently, so as not to startle the cows.
Takabocchi Plateau Racecourse
Although it was canceled in 2021, every year on the first Sunday of August, Takabocchi Highland is transformed into a racetrack for a day. At the Takabocchi Plateau Grass Racecourse, spectators can feel the thrill as powerful horses race right past them.
Camping at Takabocchi Plateau
While camping was previously prohibited at Takabocchi Highland, as of April 2021, it has become possible to camp in front of the Deidarabocchi-kan (management building). The campground offers approximately 20 tarp sites, 3 auto sites, a water supply (non-potable), and restrooms. Additionally, the Deidarabocchi-kan provides free Wi-Fi. Although there's a shop selling Takabocchi Highland's original blend coffee and other items, it's essential to bring your own supplies and dispose of your trash properly. Open fires are prohibited outside of designated areas. While there is no fee as of May 2021, it is recommended to make a voluntary donation of 500 yen to support nature conservation.
Access to Takabocchi Plateau
Access to Takabocchi Highland is limited to private vehicles or taxis as there's no public transportation. You can reach the highland via the Takabocchi Skyline from Yane no Yu Onsen in Matsumoto City or Route 20 in Okaya City. Please note that the road narrows to about 3 meters in some sections. There are also well-maintained hiking trails for those who prefer to walk up.
Name: Takabocchi Highlands Management Building "Deidara Bocchi Hall"
Address: Kataoka, Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Official/related website URL: https://tokimeguri.jp/guide/kanritou/
Shiomine Onodate Park near Takabocchi Plateau is recommended as well
Enrei Onodachi Park, located at the foot of Takabocchi Highland, is another fantastic viewpoint offering stunning vistas of Lake Suwa. The park features a Fuji-mi-dai observation deck that provides panoramic views of both the Suwa Lake area and the Matsumoto direction, separated by the Shiojiri Pass. The narrow path near the observation deck is the old Nakasendō, which has since been replaced by National Route 20. This once bustling thoroughfare is now rarely used.
Selected as one of the Environment Agency's "100 Sounds of Japan We Want to Preserve
The birdsong of Shiojiri Pass has been selected as one of the "100 Sounds of Japan We Want to Preserve" by the former Environment Agency. Enrei Onodachi Park is renowned for its beautiful autumn foliage, allowing visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of the autumn leaves while listening to the birdsong.
Name: Enrei Ononata Park
Address: 1723-79 Nishiyama, Okaya City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
◎Summary of Takabocchi Plateau
How was your trip to Takabocchi Highland? As you can see, Nagano Prefecture is truly surrounded by majestic mountains. With its changing scenery throughout the day and seasons, Takabocchi Plateau offers a unique experience for every visitor. It is encouraged to visit and experience it for yourself.