Kita Alps Traverse Route

Chubu-Sangaku National Park, which covers the entire Northern Alps, was established in 1934 and was one of the first national parks in Japan.

It is one of Japan's representative mountain areas and consists of 3,000-meter-high peaks such as the Hodaka mountain range, which includes Mount Yarigatake, and Mount Norikura, which rises in the southernmost part of the park.

The area has been climbed as an object of worship since ancient times, but it was named the "Japanese Alps" by the British in the Meiji era (1868-1912) and widely introduced to the world, which triggered many climbers to visit.

The complex topography is the result of tectonic movements, severe erosion, and volcanic activity, and visitors can encounter a variety of mountain landscapes, such as large sheer rock walls, deep and steep valleys, alpine flower fields, snow-covered valleys that remain until summer, U-shaped valleys carved by glaciers, lakes and lava plateaus created by volcanoes, and more.

The area is also characterized by easy access by public transportation to mountain trailheads such as Kamikochi and Tatamidaira on Mt.

Centered around Matsumoto Castle, a national treasure, Matsumoto City in Nagano boasts a townscape that embraces new culture while honoring over 400 years of history. In this famous craft town, you will also encounter various handicrafts.

You can also stroll around town and sample the spring water that originates in the surrounding mountains that the Japanese Government has registered as one of Japan’s remarkable waters, the taste of which varies by location.

Typical local dishes include grilled chicken thighs called sanzokuyaki, pickles, and Shinshu miso. We also recommend trying the seasonal fruit and regional sake.

Other popular spots include the Matsumoto City Museum of Art, with its exhibits from Yayoi Kusama—a native of the city—the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum, and the Matsumoto Folk Art Museum. Nakamachi- Doori is also full of character, namely its rows of Namako wall earthen storehouses called dozo.

A host of traditional accommodation options are available, including onsen ryokan, and classical inns with Matsumoto folk craft furniture.

With a bountiful timber supply, Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture is home to carpenters called takumi, whose skills and sensibilities have been passed down there since ancient times.

Four hundred years ago, the place was the flourishing center of northern Gifu Prefecture. On the east side of the Miya River that flows through the city center, the old streets, traditional merchant houses, temples, and other buildings remain. As you stroll through the town, you will encounter a variety of beautiful wooden architecture and furniture and quaint, rustic handicrafts.

Every fall, the city holds its Takayama Festival, designated as one of Japan’s most beautiful festivals, the highlight of which is the magnificent market stalls.

Local dishes incorporating the natural bounty, such as river fish and mountain vegetables, Hida beef, haoba miso, and Takayama Ramen, all offer a taste of the local culture of careful food preservation.

Guests can choose accommodation according to their traveling style, from old private houses called kominka to onsen ryokan and modern guest houses.