Enjoy summer at Shirakoma Pond, moss and primeval forest in Kita-Yatsugatake, Nagano! Also suitable for free research!

  • Nagano
  • Experience Gifu
Mysterious moss forest Photo courtesy of Sakuho Town
I am a mountain person who wants to go to the mountains in summer! If you are one of those people, or if you are wondering what to do for your child's free research during the summer vacation, here are some recommended spots. Kita-Yatsugatake (northern Yatsugatake), which straddles Nagano and Yamanashi prefectures, is a perfect spot for mountain climbing, trekking, and free research. Kita-Yatsugatake is home to "Shirakoma Pond," known as the largest natural lake in Japan, and "Moss Forest," inhabited by 519 types of moss, which will envelop visitors in a mysterious space.　

Why not visit Yatsugatake for a memorable summer experience?

Yatsugatake, one of the most famous mountains in Japan

Yatsugatake, which straddles Nagano and Yamanashi prefectures and stretches approximately 25 km from north to south and 15 km from east to west, is known as one of Japan's representative mountains.

The southern Yatsugatake range offers spectacular views from steep peaks such as Akadake, Gongen-dake, Yokodake, and Amida-dake, while the northern Yatsugatake range is relatively gentle and has two faces, with a lake on the mountain surrounded by virgin coniferous forest and bright, spacious grasslands scattered throughout the area.

Easy to visit even for children! Kita-Yatsugatake: Visit the mysterious world of "Shirakoma Pond and Moss Forest

Shirakoma Pond, the largest natural lake in Japan

Shirakoma-no-ike Pond is in an excellent location, about a 15-minute walk from the parking lot along Route 299. Shirakoma-no-ike Pond is surrounded by virgin forest and moss in the Yachiho Plateau spread over the Kita-Yatsugatake Mountains. It is the largest natural lake in Japan at an elevation of 2,100 m or higher, and is characterized by the high transparency of its lake water. Despite its location in the forest, it is a popular spot because it is easily accessible and well maintained. The paths through the primeval forests covered with moss and other mysterious sights are one of the attractions of this area.
Shirakoma Pond in summer
Summer is a popular season for visitors because of the clear sky and the Shirakoma Pond, but fall is also a popular season because of the autumn leaves. The sight of the autumn leaves reflected on the surface of the lake is a must-see during the autumn foliage season, and if there is no wind, the reflections are as beautiful as mirrors. There is also a promenade around the Shirakoma Pond, so you can take a leisurely stroll.

Because there is no need to climb a steep, high mountain, children and the elderly alike can easily see alpine flora and the changing seasons woven by nature.
Shirakoma Pond in autumn

A "moss forest" inhabited by 519 kinds of moss

Yatsugatake is home to about a quarter of the moss species found in Japan, and has been selected as one of Japan's "precious moss forests" for protection. As soon as you step into the entrance of Shirakoma-no-ike Pond, you will be struck by the virgin forest and blue mosses spreading all around. One would tend to think that it is not so easy to visit a place surrounded by primeval forest, but since it is accessible from Shirakoma-no-pond, it is easy to visit a moss forest surrounded by primeval forest.
Moss forest" with a carpet of moss
It is said that 519 kinds of mosses live in the moss forest. 519 kinds of mosses are all green, but aren't they all the same? If so, try looking at it with a loupe or a pair of magnifying glasses. Through a loupe, you can see the shape of the leaves and stems of mosses that used to look like a green carpet, and you can see the individuality of each type. In fact, you can enjoy moss even on rainy days, as the moisture in the moss makes it even brighter green. Why don't you find your favorite moss and make it your summer vacation free study?
Look at the moss with a loupe
Moss is present all year round, but it is from mid-June to the end of July when it grows in full profusion. From late September to mid-October, when the leaves turn red, you can enjoy both the vivid autumn colors and the moss forest, which can be seen until early November every year. Every year from mid-November to mid-April of the following year, there is a lot of snow and the road leading to the moss forest is temporarily closed to traffic, so the moss forest can only be accessed after the "moss forest opening" held in late May every year.

Let's visit and see Kita-Yatsugatake, Nagano during your summer vacation!

The Shirakoma Pond and moss forests on Kita-Yatsugatake, introduced here, allow visitors from children to the elderly to enjoy alpine flora and the changing seasons of nature without having to climb steep, high mountains. The area is also famous as a gateway for mountain climbing and trekking in the Yatsugatake Mountains. Why not take a trip to Nagano for a memorable summer experience?

Let's combine your favorite train and lodging to save money!

You can make your own original trip!

The " JR East View Dynamic Rail Package " is a variable-price individual travel product sold exclusively through the Internet that allows you to freely select a train and accommodations and make a reservation at once. Depending on the timing and conditions of your reservation, you may be able to save even on the day of departure at the earliest! We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.

Click here for details

For train + accommodation "Nagano Area" reservations, please visit 【 JR East View Dynamic Rail Package 】
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