Tateshina Plateau (Chino City, Nagano Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Tateshina Plateau is a highland resort area that stretches around Chino City in Nagano Prefecture, encompassing a plateau zone at an altitude of around 800-1,800m. Developed as a summer resort and villa area during the Taisho and Showa periods, it has since grown into a resort that can be enjoyed throughout the year, with activities like skiing, hiking, garden sightseeing, and hot springs. The area offers a variety of attractions, including tranquil scenery surrounded by birch and coniferous forests, a cool summer climate, beautiful autumn foliage, and winter skiing, snowscapes, and stargazing.

Highlights

• Pilatus Tateshina Ropeway: You can quickly ascend to the plateau of the Northern Yatsugatake Mountains, and the views from the small garden and observation deck are spectacular. It is also a good base for observing alpine plants and trekking.
• Tateshina Plateau Balakura (English Garden): Popular for its seasonal flowers and well-maintained gardens, there are also many photo spots.
• Lake Shirakaba, Lake Megami, Lake Tateshina: Enjoy lakeside strolls, boating, escaping the summer heat, and winter ice events (when held).
• Nagato Ranch: A family-friendly spot where you can enjoy dairy products and interact with animals in a natural setting.
• Trekking and HikingThere are many trails around Mt. Tateshina and the northern Yatsugatake mountains, ranging from beginner trails to full-scale mountain climbing.
• Hot springs and accommodationThere are many highland lodgings, log cabins, and inns with hot springs, where you can relax with a meal and a bath.
• Winter Activities: Enjoy ski resorts, snowshoeing, and other winter sports in the surrounding area.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train + Bus
  The nearest major station is Chino Station on the JR Chuo Main Line. From Shinjuku, it takes about two hours on the Azusa Limited Express (depending on the train type and timetable). From Chino Station, you can take a local bus, sightseeing bus, or taxi to get to the Tateshina Plateau. There are buses going to Lake Shirakaba and Tateshina, and the journey takes about 30 to 60 minutes depending on your destination (the number of buses varies depending on the season).
• car
  Take the Chuo Expressway (Chuo Expressway), and the nearest interchanges are Suwa IC and Suwa Minami IC. From Tokyo, it will take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours if there is no traffic. As the area has many mountain roads, there are sections where winter tires and chains are required in winter.
• Expressway buses and tour buses
  Depending on the season, direct express buses and day tours may operate from Shinjuku and other areas. Please check with the operating companies and travel agencies in advance.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Day trip: A half-day to full-day trip combining strolling around the main spots, visiting the gardens, and bathing in the hot springs.
• 1-2 nights: We recommend staying 1-2 nights to enjoy hiking, visiting multiple lakes, and relaxing in the hot springs and dining.
• Mountain climbing and serious trekking: If you are planning to hike Mt. Tateshina or the northern Yatsugatake mountains, some courses are too difficult to do in a day, so plan to stay overnight or more depending on the course.

Nearby spots

• Lake Shirakaba (towards Shirakaba Resort)
• Lake Megami (Miniboat and Walking)
• Lake Tateshina (walking trails and boats)
• Pilatus Tateshina Ropeway (Tsuboniwa, North Yatsugatake)
• Nagato Ranch (Farm experience and gelato)
• Suwa Taisha Shrine (approximately 30 minutes by car, a group of historic shrines)
• Nearby ski resorts and outdoor facilities (winter activities)

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

• Seasonal clothing and equipment
  There is a large temperature difference between daytime and morning and evening on the plateau. Please bring a light jacket even in summer, windproof and cold-resistant clothing in spring and autumn, and winter tires, chains, and cold weather gear.
• Number of transportation/buses
  There are some sections where buses are infrequent. Renting a car or taking a taxi is convenient for getting around the area, but if you are not familiar with driving, be sure to check public transportation schedules in advance.
• Crowds and reservations
  Accommodations and tourist spots tend to be crowded during Golden Week, the summer heat, autumn foliage (mid- to late October), and the New Year holidays. We recommend making reservations in advance for accommodations and some activities.
• Nature Conservation and Manners
  Please observe basic etiquette for nature conservation, such as not picking flowers or alpine plants, always taking your trash with you, and staying on the trail.
• Wild animals/safety
  In mountainous areas, there are areas where there are signs of bears and deer. Please be careful about food management, nighttime activities, and be sure to check signs and warnings.
• health care
  The altitude difference can make you sick, so avoid hiking or overexerting yourself at high altitudes, and make sure to drink plenty of fluids and take frequent breaks.

Tateshina Plateau is an attractive plateau region that shows different faces in each season. Prepare your gear and transportation according to the season and your purpose, and enjoy the nature and scenery.