Myoko Kogen (Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Myoko Kogen (Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture) is a highland resort rich in nature, centered around the volcano Mt. Myoko (2,454m above sea level). Home to Mt. Myoko, which has long been an object of worship and mountain climbing, the area offers seasonal attractions, including heavy snowfall in winter, high-quality powder snow, hot springs, and alpine plants and trekking in summer. After the war, ski resorts and hot spring towns were developed, and the area has grown into a magnet for winter sports visitors and nature tourists from both Japan and overseas. Part of Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park, the area is also highly valued for preserving its landscape and ecosystem.

Highlights

• Skiing and Snowboarding:There are several ski resorts, including Akakura Onsen, Ikenotaira, Akakura, and Suginohara, and they offer a variety of courses and the powder snow that is unique to areas with heavy snowfall. Everyone from families to advanced skiers can enjoy this area.
• hot spring:There are many natural hot springs scattered around the area, including Akakura Onsen, Ikenotaira Onsen, and Tsubame Onsen. Hot spring hopping and open-air baths are popular after skiing.
• Mountaineering/Hiking:The Mt. Myoko hiking route (peak season is from summer to autumn), Sasaga Mine, and the highland trekking course are attractive for their alpine plants, marshes, and spectacular views.
• Imori Pond:The scenery of Mt. Myoko reflected in the quiet pond is a famous photo spot, and is especially beautiful during the morning mist and autumn foliage seasons.
• Naena Falls:This waterfall is known for its impressive drop and clear stream. You can view it up close from the walking trail.
• Wildlife observation:You can enjoy highland birds, alpine plants, and flowers from spring to autumn. Guided tours are also available.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Shinkansen + bus/taxi:From Tokyo, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Joetsu Myoko Station (approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours). From Joetsu Myoko Station, take a bus or local bus shuttle to Myoko Kogen (approximately 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the bus).
• Conventional lines:There is also a route that uses Myoko-Kogen Station (Myoko-Kogen Station). Connections are possible via the Echigo Tokimeki Railway (route name, etc.) and local buses (timetables vary depending on the season).
• car:Access from Nagano or Niigata via the Kan-etsu Expressway or Joshin-etsu Expressway. You can specify "Myoko Kogen" or the name of each ski resort as your destination on your car navigation system. Chains and studless tires may be required in winter.
• Via the airport:You can also access the area from Niigata Airport, Toyama Airport, or Matsumoto Airport by rental car or public transportation (travel time depends on the departure point).

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Day trip:A day trip to Imori Pond, Naena Falls, and the hot springs takes about 6 to 8 hours, including travel time (if coming from nearby areas).
• 2 days and 1 night:This is a basic itinerary suitable for touring, such as a half-day ski trip followed by a visit to a hot spring, or staying the night before climbing and then climbing the next day. You will have plenty of time.
• 2-4 nights:If you want to take your time exploring multiple ski resorts, hiking trails, and sightseeing in the surrounding area (such as Madarao and Kurohime), we recommend staying 2-4 nights.
• Mountaineering:Depending on the route, it may be possible to climb Mt. Myoko in a day, but please consider staying in a mountain hut or leaving early, taking into account your physical strength and the weather.

Nearby spots

• Madarao Plateau (near the border with Nagano Prefecture) — A plateau where you can enjoy skiing, golf, and forest walks.
• Kurohime Plateau — The plateau flower fields and hiking on Mount Kurohime are popular.
• Togakushi (Nagano Prefecture) — Stroll around Togakushi Shrine, soba noodles, and the inner shrine approach.
• Joetsu City (Takada District) — Sightseeing of Takada Castle, cherry blossoms, historical buildings, etc.
• Nearby hot spring towns (Akakura, Tsubame, Ikenodaira) - Enjoy bathing in the hot springs and local cuisine.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion:Ski resorts and accommodations are crowded during the winter season (especially the long weekend from January to February and the New Year holidays). We recommend making reservations for accommodation and lift tickets early. There are also many hikers and tourists during Golden Week and the long summer holidays.
• Driving on snowy roads:In winter, there are many heavy snowfalls and packed snow roads, so be sure to bring studless tires and chains. Also, check road closures and snow removal status in advance.
• Mountain weather:Weather in mountain areas can change suddenly, with fog, strong winds, and snowfall. Be sure to be well equipped and plan ahead. Please submit a mountaineering notification and check the latest local information.
• Nature Conservation and Manners:Please observe good manners, such as protecting alpine plants and wildlife, taking your trash with you, and walking only on designated hiking trails. Be especially careful of the risk of bonfires and forest fires.
• Etiquette when using hot springs:Please wash before bathing, be aware of tattoo restrictions (some lodgings and facilities may have restrictions on the exposure of tattoos), and behave respectfully in the bath area.
• Cold weather gear and equipment:In winter, it can be extremely cold and windy, so be sure to dress warmly in layers. Even in summer, it can get chilly early in the morning and in the alpine zone, so bring light winter clothing.
• Public transport:There are times and seasons when buses are limited in number, so be sure to check the timetable in advance and consider renting a car or arranging a taxi.

This concludes the main introduction to Myoko Kogen. If you let us know the purpose of your visit (skiing, mountain climbing, hot springs, photography), we will provide more detailed suggestions on recommended spots for each season, itinerary plans, clothing, and what to bring.