TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Mount Myoko is a 2,454m-high stratovolcano towering over Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture, and has long been a sacred mountain that has been climbed and worshipped. The mountain's base is home to lush beech forests and alpine plants, and ski resorts have developed in the winter that take advantage of the heavy snowfall, making it a diverse destination throughout the year. The mountain's shape is a substantial cone, and on clear days, you can enjoy views of the foot of the mountain and the Sea of Japan. Hot spring resorts (such as Akakura Onsen and Tsubame Onsen) and tourist facilities are scattered around the base, making it a popular base not only for mountain climbing but also for hot spring and resort stays.
Highlights
- View from the summit: On clear days, you can see the surrounding mountains and the Sea of Japan. The sunrise and sea of clouds are popular.
- Alpine plants: Alpine plants bloom from summer to early autumn, allowing you to enjoy different scenery with each season.
- Primeval forest and beech forest: Beautiful beech forests and natural forests spread out along the mountainside, making it ideal for forest bathing.
- Hot Springs and Resorts: After hiking, you can soothe your fatigue at Akakura Onsen or Tsubame Onsen. Skiing and snowboarding are popular in winter.
- Paths of faith and historical elements: Near the summit there are stone monuments and worship sites related to faith, giving the mountain a historical and cultural aspect.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Shinkansen + bus: Get off at Joetsu Myoko Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen → Take a local bus, special shuttle, or taxi to Myoko Kogen or one of the trailheads (most trips take about 30 to 50 minutes).
- By car: From Myoko Kogen IC (or the nearest IC) on the Joshinetsu Expressway, take the national and prefectural roads to the trailhead and hot springs. Parking is available at each trailhead, but may fill up during peak seasons.
- Buses and local transport: During the summer climbing season and winter ski season, special buses for tourists may operate, so be sure to check the timetables in advance.
- Nearest major station: Joetsu Myoko Station is the most convenient. Depending on the line, it is also possible to access from Niigata and Nagano.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day hike (round trip): It depends on the route and your physical strength, but if you are aiming to reach the summit, it will take about 6 to 10 hours round trip (this can vary greatly depending on the route you choose and the weather).
- Hiking/low mountain walks: A walk around the foot of the mountain or on a short walking trail will take from a few hours to half a day.
- Sightseeing + Hot Spring Stay: If you are sightseeing without mountain climbing, we recommend staying one to two nights (two to three days if you want to enjoy hot springs and skiing).
Nearby spots
- Akakura Onsen: A resort area with ski resorts and hot spring inns.
- Tsubame Onsen: Close to the trailhead, you can enjoy a charming hot spring town and foot baths.
- Myoko Kogen Ski Resorts (Ikenohira, Suginohara, etc.): Bustling with skiers in winter.
- Lake Nojiri (nearby): A tourist spot where you can enjoy canoeing and strolling along the lakeside (convenient to travel by car).
- Local roadside stations and farm shops: selling seasonal vegetables and local specialties.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Sudden changes in weather: Because it is a high mountain, the weather can change quickly. Be sure to check the weather forecast and mountain climbing information (mountain weather) before setting off.
- Snow accumulation and remaining snow: There are years when snow remains even in spring and early summer. During the snowy season, you may need to bring light crampons or other equipment, so please check in advance.
- Equipment and stamina: Some hiking trails have large distances and elevation changes, so you will need sufficient equipment (warm clothing, rain gear, maps, food, water), stamina, and a plan.
- Trail conditions: There are dangerous areas such as volcanic terrain, steep slopes, and mud. Follow the ropes and signs and do not push yourself too hard.
- Busy seasons: During the autumn foliage season, consecutive holidays, and ski season, the hot springs and parking lots at the base of the mountain become crowded, so we recommend leaving early and making reservations in advance.
- Manners: To protect the natural environment, please be sure to take your trash with you. Smoking and open fires (bonfires) are strictly prohibited except in designated areas.
- Wildlife and plant protection: Do not collect rare plants or feed animals. Stay on the trail.
- Disaster preparedness measures: Submit a hiking plan, inform your family of your itinerary, check your mobile phone signal, and prepare spare batteries.
(Note) Specific hiking routes, bus times, snowfall information, etc. change depending on the season and year, so please check the latest information at the Myoko City Tourist Information Center, hiking information sites, and official transportation information before visiting.
