Kirigamine Plateau

The highest peak of Kirigamine Kogen is the summit of Chausuyama, which stands at an altitude of 1,925 meters. You can take the Chausuyama Kogen Lift to the observation terrace and explore the area around the summit. You can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Southern Alps, the Central Alps, and Mt. Yatsugatake, and on clear days, you'll be overwhelmed by the breathtaking scenery. There are photo spots around the terrace, making it perfect for capturing wonderful memories. Additionally, you can visit the "Tenku no Yashiro" Shausuyama Shrine, which is revered as the mountain's guardian deity. It is said to grant various wishes, as well as ensuring safe travels, so be sure to stop by.

I would definitely like to visit the "Kirigamine Three Great Wetlands," a national natural monument. This refers to the Karasuyama Wetland, Yashima-ga-hara Wetland, and Ike-no-Kurumi Odoriba Wetland, all of which have walking paths that make it easy to stroll around. All three are rare high altitude wetlands where you can observe over 400 species of subalpine plants. A high altitude wetland is a wetland where peat layers grow above the water surface. Peat is a deposit of undecomposed plants that have not decomposed due to cold climates, among other factors, and because it is acidic and nutrient-poor, special plants grow there. The three great wetlands each have different characteristics. "Karasuyama Wetland" is a wetland that developed in the valley between Mt. Kurumayama (1925m) and Chouchou-fukazan (1836m). A walking path of about 1.5km is maintained, and you can enjoy flowers such as azaleas and Nikko-kisuge. "Yashima-ga-hara Wetland" is a high altitude wetland that spreads on the southwest slope of Mt. Yashima-ga-take (1785m). A walking path of about 2.5km is maintained, and flowers such as Matsumushi-sou and Ezorindou bloom brilliantly. "Ike-no-Kurumi Odoriba Wetland" is a high altitude wetland located at an altitude of 1550m and is also called "Ike-no-Kurumi." A walking path of about 1km is maintained, and you can see flowers such as Kobai-keiso and Mizubashou. Why not enjoy the differences between these three valuable wetlands by visiting them?

There are plenty of activities to enjoy each season. In the summer, you can go hiking or camping, while in the winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular. At the Kirigamine Nature Preservation Center, there is a "Kirigamine Living Things Stamp Rally" where you can see panels and learn about the plants and animals of Kirigamine. Additionally, there is a rare experience of gliding. Kirigamine Kogen is known as the birthplace of gliders in Japan, and there are abundant upward air currents in the area, allowing you to enjoy a walk in the sky. You can climb into the cockpit with an instructor and take off with a tow plane. Be sure to try this amazing experience and be impressed by the view of the grasslands, lakes, and mountains in front of you. Since the gliding experience is by reservation only, we recommend checking online in advance.

The highlands are popular as a cool campsite even in the summer. There are both a municipal Kirigamine Campsite and private campsites. The municipal campsite is a historic campsite that opened in 1969 and does not require advance reservations, with same-day reception available. There are about 100 free sites on a vast site of 36,565 square meters (about 10,000 tsubo). Cars are parked in the parking lot and luggage is carried by a handcart, allowing you to enjoy camping in a natural environment without noise. The management center also rents out items such as mats and panels and sells firewood, which is very helpful. The usage fee is very reasonable at 730 yen per tent for 1-6 people and 1,250 yen per tent for 7 or more people, allowing you to enjoy nature to the fullest. As for private campsites, there are Kirigamine Green Park and Kirigamine Auto Campsite, both of which require advance reservations. Kirigamine Green Park has auto sites and cottages with lawns and shade trees. They also have barbecue sets and rental bicycles. The usage fee is 4,000 yen per auto site for up to 4 people. Kirigamine Auto Campsite has auto sites and bungalows. They also have hot spring facilities and restaurants, and the usage fee is 3,000 yen per auto site for up to 4 people. Both campsites are well-equipped and suitable for camping beginners.

There are many pensions surrounded by beautiful nature in the area. You can enjoy your stay in a cozy atmosphere while taking in the natural beauty of the highlands. There are various types of pensions available, such as "Pension Eco-Stay Toss," where you can enjoy organic French cuisine and homemade bread. The ingredients used are locally sourced and include pesticide-free vegetables grown on their own farm. It's also recommended to experience the guided walk on Kirigamine, which is available at a reasonable price. The price starts from 8,200 yen per night with two meals included, making it affordable. Another recommended pension is "Auberge de la Meije," which is a pension where you can stay and enjoy a stylish French cuisine. The seasonal French cuisine, which uses local natural mushrooms, duck, and organic vegetables, is exquisite. You can also relax in the underground cigar bar after your meal. The price starts from 11,880 yen per night with two meals included, which is slightly more expensive, but it's recommended for those who want to spend a luxurious time.