Discover the Charm of Norikura Highlands! Must-See Attractions, Activities, and Hot Springs

The Norikura Highlands in Nagano Prefecture are located near the center of the Hida Mountain Range, spreading out from the 3,026-meter-tall Mt. Norikura. The Hida Mountain Range, also called the "Northern Alps," is one of Japan's representative mountain ranges, forming the border between Nagano, Toyama, and Gifu Prefectures. Famous mountains like Hakuba, renowned for skiing, Kamikochi, known for its scenic beauty, and Mt. Ontake, which erupted in 2014, all belong to the Hida Range.

Norikura Highlands are far from urban areas, preserving a rich natural environment that makes them an attractive tourist destination. With hot springs and abundant sightseeing resources, Norikura welcomes visitors year-round, offering unique experiences in every season. In this guide, we’ll introduce the highlights of the Norikura Highlands and its surrounding areas, centered around Mt. Norikura. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to add this charming destination to your itinerary. Let’s dive into the wonders of Norikura!

1. Sightseeing

Norikura Highlands is a nature-rich destination offering stunning scenery and numerous attractions. Here's a glimpse of some of the highlights:

◆ Ichinose Meadow

Located in the heart of Norikura Highlands, the expansive Ichinose Meadow covers approximately 600,000 square meters of lush greenery. This serene wetland area is home to a wide variety of plants, including the iconic Asian skunk cabbage, which can be observed from walking trails. It is a beloved spot for nature enthusiasts.

What makes Ichinose Meadow truly special is its unique position amidst the mountainous terrain. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of Norikura, including the elegant silhouette of Mount Norikura, the meadow provides breathtaking views. The reflections of the Asian skunk cabbages in the clear waters further enhance the natural charm.

The meadow also features a cycling path, making it a perfect spot for families to enjoy a leisurely ride. The flat terrain makes it accessible even for young children, and it doubles as a relaxing rest stop during your Norikura sightseeing. Nearby, there’s also a campsite, but remember to preserve the beauty of Norikura by avoiding activities like picking plants or flowers. Let’s help keep this stunning environment intact for future generations.

◆ Sanbondaki Waterfalls

Sanbondaki Waterfalls, located in the northern part of Norikura Highlands, is one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls. The name "Sanbondaki" refers to the three waterfalls that converge into a single basin, each originating from a different source.

• Honzawa Waterfall: The central and most voluminous of the three cascades down with powerful force.
• Kuroisawa Waterfall: On the right, this dynamic three-tiered waterfall captivates with its lively movement, almost as if it were alive.
• Mumeisawa Waterfall: To the left, its delicate flow resembles threads of water gracefully tracing the rock’s surface, creating a mysterious, serene atmosphere.

Sanbondaki offers a rare convergence of three distinct waterfall personalities in one place. Accessible via a 15-minute drive from the Norikura Highlands Tourist Center to a nearby parking lot, it’s followed by an hour-long hike. The trail offers a taste of light trekking, though caution is advised as some sections can be slippery. Missing Sanbondaki means missing one of Norikura’s most iconic sights—it’s an unmissable highlight for your visit.

◆ Zengoro Falls

Norikura Highlands is home to numerous waterfalls, and Zengoro Falls is a must-visit spot during your trip to the area. Located downstream from the previously introduced Sanbon Falls, Zengoro Falls boasts a height of approximately 21 meters. While it may not be as tall as some, its charm lies in its orderly flow. Unlike Sanbon Falls, which exudes a free-spirited vibe as it cascades over rugged rocks, Zengoro Falls presents a neat, horizontal stream, giving it a delightful and almost endearing appearance.

Depending on the direction of the sunlight, the mist created by the waterfall sometimes catches the light and forms a rainbow, adding a whimsical, fairy-tale-like atmosphere to the site. Visitors often wonder, "Will there be a rainbow today?" as they approach this enchanting destination. It's a highly recommended stop during your exploration of the Norikura Highlands.

◆ Bandokoro Falls (Bandokoro Great Falls)

If asked, "What is the most powerful waterfall in Norikura?" many would name Bandokoro Falls. It is a sightseeing spot worth visiting, especially in the sweltering summer or the frozen depths of winter. As the grand finale of the "Three Great Waterfalls of Norikura," Bandokoro Falls represents the pride of the Norikura Highlands.

A viewing platform juts out toward the waterfall, allowing visitors to see the powerful flow up close. From the platform, looking at the basin below, it feels almost as if you could be pulled into the waterfall itself—a scene brimming with intensity. With a drop of about 40 meters, its commanding presence offers an overwhelming sense of grandeur. Watching the flowing water might even make you feel cooler during the summer. This waterfall is definitely a place to visit in the Norikura Highlands.

◆ Starry Skies ~ The Milky Way

The starry skies are a cherished tourist attraction in Norikura Highlands. Being far from large cities, the area suffers from little light pollution, and the air is clear, making it an ideal environment for stargazing. On a clear night, the sky is filled with countless stars and the Milky Way—a truly moving scene.

Our planet Earth is part of the Milky Way galaxy, a disk-shaped collection of stars with a diameter of about 100,000 light-years. The Milky Way we see is the view of our galaxy’s core, where stars are densely packed, appearing from afar like a river flowing across the sky.

Looking up at the night sky in Norikura Highlands is such a mesmerizing experience that you might lose track of time. Don’t you want to share such a scene with your children? Norikura Highlands’ starry skies are an unforgettable sight perfect for stargazing.

◆ Mt. Norikura’s Autumn Colors

Mt. Norikura is home to deciduous trees, conifers, and alpine plants, making its autumn colors a natural spectacle. Starting in September near the summit, the leaves gradually change and cascade down the mountain. The vibrant reds and yellows seem almost alive as they spread across Mt. Norikura.

The autumn colors at Mt. Norikura are a must-see. The area is filled with scenic spots that highlight the beauty of autumn in Norikura Highlands.

◆ Snow Corridor

Have you ever seen the snow corridor on TV and thought, “I want to see this in person someday”? The Norikura Echo Line, which connects Norikura Highlands in Nagano Prefecture to Gifu Prefecture, is a renowned attraction. A highlight of spring tourism here is the towering walls of snow that line the road, reaching over 10 meters in height. Although imposing, the snow walls are stabilized by freezing temperatures, making them structurally sound.

The sight of these towering snow walls flanking the road brings to mind the biblical story of Moses parting the Red Sea. Visiting the snow corridor in spring is a must for travelers, as this is one of the liveliest times of the year in Norikura Highlands. Why not visit this spectacular sight?

2. Activities to Enjoy

Next, let’s explore Norikura’s must-visit attractions and activities that promise an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by pristine nature, Norikura is the perfect destination for those who love outdoor adventures. What makes Norikura Highlands such an awe-inspiring place? Here, we’ll focus on attractions that involve physical activities, offering a dynamic way to enjoy this stunning area.

◆ Mt. Norikura Snow Resort

When it comes to winter sports, skiing and snowboarding top the list, and Norikura is a premier destination for these activities. Among its attractions, the "Mt. Norikura Snow Resort" is a must-visit. Accessible by taking the Matsumoto Electric Railway to its final stop, "Shinshimashima Station," followed by a 50-minute bus ride, the resort welcomes winter sports enthusiasts with open arms.

Featuring 8 lifts and 20 courses, Mt. Norikura Snow Resort caters to all skill levels. Beginners can hone their skills on the “Paradise Course” with its gentle 9-degree slope, while advanced skiers can tackle the “Kamoshika Course” with a thrilling 35-degree incline. Thanks to the high altitude of the Norikura Highlands, visitors can enjoy premium powder snow. Affordable rentals are also available, with full ski sets (skis, boots, and poles) costing only around ¥3,500 per day. With a selection of top-brand gear, you can travel light and still enjoy a hassle-free ski experience.

For dining, head to the resort’s rest house, where the highlight is the "Mountain Bandit Burger (Oyabun)," a massive burger big enough to feed two to three people at once—perfect for sharing with friends or loved ones. Other options include noodles, curry, rice bowls, and an array of beverages. Just be careful not to overindulge and affect your afternoon skiing!

After a day on the slopes, warm up at "Yukemuri-kan," a hot spring facility just a minute’s drive from the ski area. The milky-white waters, characteristic of Norikura’s hot springs, will soothe your body from the inside out. Some partnered hotels even offer discounts on lift tickets, making your trip even more budget-friendly. Check with the accommodations for details. For winter sports enthusiasts, Norikura is a highly recommended destination.

◆ Mount Norikura Hiking

Mount Norikura hiking is another recommended activity in Norikura. With its highest peak, Kengamine, standing at 3,026 meters, this range is a rare example of relatively gentle terrain among the rugged Hida Mountains, making it popular with tourists.

The most typical hiking route involves taking a Matsumoto Electric Railway train from JR Matsumoto Station to "Shinshimashima Station," followed by a bus ride to the Tatamidaira Parking Area at 2,700 meters above sea level. The hike from there offers beautiful scenery, including ponds and flower meadows, helping you forget the effort of climbing. Reaching the summit of Kengamine takes about 90 minutes.

While some parts of the trail feature unpaved paths with large rocks, they don’t present significant difficulties, making it a tourist-friendly mountain. However, keep in mind that Norikura is the third-highest volcano in Japan, and the temperature can drop significantly in the morning and evening, so warm clothing is essential. The air is thinner at higher altitudes, so avoid sudden, strenuous activity. With proper preparation, families, friends, and couples can all enjoy the hike.

◆ All-Japan Mountain Cycling in Norikura

Imagine cycling while enjoying the majestic views of Norikura Kogen and Mount Norikura without worrying about cars or pedestrians—doesn’t that sound refreshing? One of Norikura’s most appealing features is precisely this experience. At Norikura Kogen, you can enjoy a variety of cycling routes suited to different skill levels. Among them, the most famous activity is hill climbing.

Hill climbing is a cycling competition where participants race uphill, and the "All-Japan Mountain Cycling in Norikura" is one of the most renowned and historic hill climbing events in Japan.

The event welcomes participants from middle school students to those aged 70 and above. Cyclists use everything from road bikes with drop handlebars to mountain bikes and even everyday shopping bicycles known as "mamachari." Whether you’re competing seriously or just there to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, this summer event in Norikura is open to everyone.

The event is held annually on the last Sunday of August, making it the perfect way to create lasting summer memories in Norikura. Note that pre-registration is required, so for more details, please contact the "All-Japan Mountain Cycling in Norikura Executive Committee Matsumoto Office." This unique event is sure to make your Norikura trip unforgettable.

◆ Norikura BASE Igaya Recreation Land

Blessed with abundant nature, Norikura Kogen is not just for hiking or sightseeing—it’s a place where you can fully immerse yourself in outdoor activities. At "Norikura BASE Igaya Recreation Land," you can enjoy bike rentals, golf, BBQ facilities, and even an on-site restaurant, providing fun for everyone amidst the great outdoors.

One of its highlights is the "Zipline." This popular activity, which has gained traction overseas, involves sliding through the air on a pulley attached to a wire stretched between trees. At Norikura, the zipline allows you to soar from a height of 8 meters above the ground, securely harnessed with two ropes and safety lines. The exhilarating feeling of gliding through the air like a bird makes it a favorite among visitors.

For this activity, sneakers or athletic shoes are recommended, and dresses or skirts should be avoided. Note that children must meet the height and weight requirements: at least 110 cm tall and between 30–120 kg. Don’t miss this chance to create unforgettable memories at Igaya Recreation Land, one of Norikura Kogen’s best outdoor attractions.

3. Norikura Tourism Center

The Norikura Tourism Center is located midway up Norikura Highlands and is a spot where you can gather information about the area. It serves as the boarding and alighting point for buses heading to the Norikura Highlands, and it’s also a bustling place where visitors can buy souvenirs from Norikura Highlands. Shuttle buses to Norikura Highlands Tatamidaira, as well as buses to Kamikochi and Shirahone Onsen, operate here, making it a key location for exploring the Norikura area. During the summer tourist season, the area gets crowded, so it’s recommended to line up early at the bus stops.

Nagano Prefecture is also renowned for its sake breweries. Every November, the Norikura Tourism Center hosts the “Local Sake Festival,” where you can savor Shinshu’s delicious local sake and regional dishes. With shuttle services to nearby accommodations, you can safely enjoy the festivities without worrying about driving. Admission starts at 3,000 yen, but those staying at facilities associated with the Norikura Tourism Association can join for a discounted 2,000 yen. Whether you're seeking travel information or a lively gathering spot, the Norikura Tourism Center is an excellent base for exploring the Norikura Highlands.

4. Norikura Highlands Onsen

Norikura Highlands Onsen is the most iconic hot spring resort area in Norikura Highlands, located midway up the region. With about 100 hotels and inns lining the streets, it’s a major attraction for visitors.

The defining feature of Norikura Highlands Onsen is its milky white waters. This distinct coloration occurs as the sulfur content in the spring reacts with air, creating a cloudy appearance. The waters are strongly acidic and carry a potent sulfur scent. Due to the high acidity, the water is sterile to the point of preventing bacteria growth. However, this same acidity can cause discoloration of metals other than gold or platinum, so be cautious about wearing jewelry while bathing.

Thanks to its strong sterilizing properties, the onsen is effective for skin conditions like acne and eczema. However, the sulfur can enhance metabolism and dissolve natural oils, which may cause dryness, so those with dry skin should take care. As the quintessential onsen of Norikura Highlands, it’s a must-visit destination.

◎ Summary

In this guide, we have introduced the main tourist attractions of Norikura Kogen in Nagano Prefecture. Some of you may find it difficult to imagine what Norikura Kogen is like. However, it is a place full of appealing tourist spots, including nature, fun activities, and hot springs that attract many visitors. You can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in winter, the beautiful water lilies in spring, hiking in summer, and the stunning autumn leaves in fall—making Norikura a destination that can be enjoyed year-round.

Although reaching Norikura Kogen requires transferring between trains and buses from Matsumoto City in Nagano, its distance from urban areas rewards visitors with stunning night skies. This year, why not create unforgettable memories by spending your long vacation at Norikura Kogen?

Search

Customer Support

Discover the Charm of Norikura Highlands! Must-See Attractions, Activities, and Hot Springs