The Uenotaira highlands hiking trails.

On the plateau of the Uenotaira highlands is a vast and beautiful beech forest, with a series and interesting and relatively easy walking trails. The scenery changes greatly with the seasons: In spring while the buds are still forming on the beech trees, there are open glades with very little undergrowth and clear vision through the forest. In summer, the foliage and undergrowth is much denser and the area is a great hiding place from the summer heat.
Come Autumn time the leaves turn a variety of golds and oranges that are contrasted against the deep green of the evergreen cedars.

Course details

Walking course map, and gradient guides

Kokenashi observatory at the summit of  Mt. Kokenashi

Located to the right of the Yambiko station of the Nagasaka gondola, the Kokenashi Observatory sits at the top of Mt. Kokenashi at 1450m.  The distance from Yamabiko Station is about 450m, and it is about a 15-minute walk.

From the observatory tower, you have a great view of Nozawa Onsen district and the Chikuma River below. When the weather is clear, you can see “Hokushin Gogaku” – The 5 peaks of the Hokushin area and the Northern Alps beyond.

Nordic walking

Nordic walking- trail walking with the assistance of walking poles- is a physical activity anyone can be involved in, regardless of fitness level. It improves endurance, strengthens various muscles in the upper and lower body, promotes weight management, and improves neck and shoulder movement and blood circulation.

Nordic walking pole rental