2 tours available
Utsukushigahara is a vast highland plateau straddling Nagano and Matsumoto at an elevation of around 2,000 metres. Its name literally means “beautiful meadow,” and the rolling alpine grasslands deliver on that promise — panoramic 360-degree views stretch from the Northern Alps to Mount Fuji on clear days.
The plateau is home to the Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum, where modern sculptures are scattered across the highland meadows, creating a surreal juxtaposition of art and nature. Accessible by a scenic toll road or a rewarding mountain hike, this is one of central Japan's most spectacular yet least-visited highland destinations — a place where Japanese families have escaped summer heat for generations.
Summer (June – August) — The plateau is cool and green while lowland Japan swelters. Alpine wildflowers carpet the meadows, and the Venus Line toll road offers one of Japan's greatest driving experiences.
Early Autumn (September – October) — Golden grasses and early foliage under crisp mountain air. Clear autumn mornings provide the best chance of seeing Mount Fuji from the summit.
Note: The highland roads and museum close from late November through mid-April due to snow. Plan visits during the open season.
Alpine Peaks Meet Ancient Streets: Departures from June to October
12-day alpine tour (June–Oct): Mt Fuji, Kamikochi hiking, Shirakawa-go, and Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route through Japan's mountainous heartland.
Spring-Only Spectacle: Tateyama Snow Wall - April & May 2027
12-day spring alpine tour (Apr–May): Mt Fuji, Kamikochi, Shirakawa-go, and Tateyama's famous 20-metre snow corridor. A seasonal spectacle.
Region
Chubu
Location
Available Tours
2 tours
