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    • Spring
      • video

        Finding the Flow from Kansai to Kochi

        Shikoku’s many mountains, valleys and proximity to the ocean has made it a hidden gem for rafting, kayaking and canyoning enthusiasts willing to take a step or two further from the Golden Route of Kyoto and Osaka.

        Solace and Giant Salamanders in Akiota

        Just beyond Hiroshima City is a tranquil outdoor destination home to some of Japan's last remaining oosanshouo, the elusive giant salamander.
        Kyoto Oni Trail Outdoor Japanvideo

        The Oni Trail: Hiking Coastal Kyoto

        The mystical oni is prevalent in Japanese children’s stories, usually as a way to scare kids straight. Adventure Travel Kyoto is shedding a new light on this folklore and developing a new hiking route in the countryside of Kyoto.
    • Summer
      • the nomad pasche family

        The World is Our Playground

        The Pasche family has been cycling and living out of a tent in remote corners of the planet for the past 13 years on four continents spanning 50 countries.
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        Adventure Travel World Summit in Hokkaido

        The ATTA will host their first Adventure Travel World Summit in Asia in Hokkaido, Japan. We caught up with ATTA Director Shannon Stowell to find out more about the adventure travel industry and how it continues to grow and evolve.
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        The Sweet Secrets of Brewing Mead

        Wander into the world of mead brewing and find yourself immersed in a fascinating journey spanning centuries and continents.
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        The Knights in White Lycra

        Each year a group of cyclists head to the deep north towards Tohoku’s vast rice fields and coastal trails to help transform the lives of neglected children.
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        Sea to Table in Yamagata

        An unforgettable way to intimately explore the Shonai Region in Yamagata is a culinary experience bringing bounty of the sea straight to your table.
    • Autumn
    • Winter
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        CAMP3 Clubhouse in Madarao

        Keith Stubbs, a veteran in the snowboard industry, transitioned from rider to coach and instructor trainer for Snowboard Instruction New Zealand. After coaching in various Japanese resorts, he has established a permanent base in Madarao, outlining his plans for the area and future snowboard endeavors.
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        New Horizons in Shiretoko

        During another epic powder season, two seasoned winter sports enthusiasts traded their snowboard bags for camera bags and traveled to Eastern Hokkaido to explore the frozen landscape and broaden their winter horizons.
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        Silent Resilience

        Curling athlete Sayuri Matsuhashi’s journey to the top of her sport is an inspiration to deaf athletes and women juggling their roles as mothers while also pursuing their professional dreams.
        ainu tour daniel moore outdoor japan hokkaido

        Heritage Hunting in Hokkaido

        Travelers venturing beyond Hokkaido's popular winter resorts will discover a land with a rich cultural and natural history, a proud indigenous people and a community striving to preserve their heritage.
        shizukuishi skiing snowboarding outdoor japan

        Shizukuishi

        Northern Honshu’s Iwate Prefecture, known for heavy snowfall, features Shizukuishi—a powder-rich resort area with views of Mt. Iwate. Snow enthusiasts seeking lesser-known gems can enjoy exceptional snow quality and uncrowded resorts, including Shizukuishi Ski Resort, Amihari Onsen Ski Resort, and Iwate Kogen Snow Park, offering affordability and traditional hospitality.
    • Near Tokyo
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        Getting Dirty in Japan

        “Getting Dirty in Japan” is about getting out of your comfort zone and into some exciting outdoor adventures and destinations in Japan.
    • Near Kyoto
      • Kumano’s Path Less Traveled

        A forgotten pilgrimage trail, ancient power spots and authentic rural communities are waiting to be explored this hiking season on the Iseji Trail. Stretch your legs and tickle your spirit to welcome the green season on one of the Kumano Kodo’s finest routes, minus the crowds.

        Protecting the Sacred Trees of Koya-san

        Within the misty mountains of Japan's Kii Peninsula, Koya-san (Mt. Koya), stands as a sacred realm of tranquility, history, and spiritual significance. This awe-inspiring mountain has been revered for centuries and is home to a unique collection of trees known as the rokuboku, or The Six Trees of Koya-san.
    • All Regions
    • Article Map
    • Ocean and Beach
      • getting dirty in japan

        Getting Dirty in Japan

        “Getting Dirty in Japan” is about getting out of your comfort zone and into some exciting outdoor adventures and destinations in Japan.
    • River and Lake
      • ainu tour daniel moore outdoor japan hokkaido

        Heritage Hunting in Hokka...

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        Getting Dirty in Japan

        “Getting Dirty in Japan” is about getting out of your comfort zone and into some exciting outdoor adventures and destinations in Japan.
    • Mountain and Land
    • Sky
      • getting dirty in japan

        Getting Dirty in Japan

        “Getting Dirty in Japan” is about getting out of your comfort zone and into some exciting outdoor adventures and destinations in Japan.
    • Snow and Ice
      • camp3 clubhouse madarao keith stubbs outdoor japanvideo

        CAMP3 Clubhouse in Madarao

        Keith Stubbs, a veteran in the snowboard industry, transitioned from rider to coach and instructor trainer for Snowboard Instruction New Zealand. After coaching in various Japanese resorts, he has established a permanent base in Madarao, outlining his plans for the area and future snowboard endeavors.
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        During another epic powder season, two seasoned winter sports enthusiasts traded their snowboard bags for camera bags and traveled to Eastern Hokkaido to explore the frozen landscape and broaden their winter horizons.
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        Silent Resilience

        Curling athlete Sayuri Matsuhashi’s journey to the top of her sport is an inspiration to deaf athletes and women juggling their roles as mothers while also pursuing their professional dreams.
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        Shizukuishi

        Northern Honshu’s Iwate Prefecture, known for heavy snowfall, features Shizukuishi—a powder-rich resort area with views of Mt. Iwate. Snow enthusiasts seeking lesser-known gems can enjoy exceptional snow quality and uncrowded resorts, including Shizukuishi Ski Resort, Amihari Onsen Ski Resort, and Iwate Kogen Snow Park, offering affordability and traditional hospitality.
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        Northern Shinshu’s Secret Stash

        A weak yen, revenge travel, and excellent ski conditions have led to high demand, booking out popular resorts like Hakuba and Nozawa Onsen this year. Fortunately, lesser-known gems like Togari Onsen, near Nozawa Onsen and Madarao, offer charming alternatives for powder seekers.
    • Travel
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        Dan Buettner’s bestseller, “Blue Zones,” which was also adapted into a hit series on Netflix, identifies five regions with a high number of centenarians. One of these zones is Yambaru, in the north of Okinawa Island. A rich cultural and natural heritage remain in this region, holding the secret to the longevity of the communities living there.

        Kumano’s Path Less Traveled

        A forgotten pilgrimage trail, ancient power spots and authentic rural communities are waiting to be explored this hiking season on the Iseji Trail. Stretch your legs and tickle your spirit to welcome the green season on one of the Kumano Kodo’s finest routes, minus the crowds.

        Okinawa Forest Adventure

        Holiday-goers lounging on Onna’s white sand beaches are no doubt unaware of what’s going on high in the jungle as creatures climb above the forest canopy and zip or swing from tower to tower. Curious travelers will discover a new side of Okinawa’s tropical paradise if they take the leap into a Forest Adventure.

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        Okinawa attracts hordes of travelers to its sandy beaches and warm, clear water with divers and snorkelers often posting images of the majestic local sea turtles. The interior forest and rivers, however, are home to another Okinawa turtle also in need of protection—the small, reclusive, but equally beautiful, yamagame.
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      • Okinawa’s Blue Zone —A Lifestyle for Longevity...

        Dan Buettner’s bestseller, “Blue Zones,” which was also adapted into a hit series on Netflix, identifies five regions with a high number of centenarians. One of these zones is Yambaru, in the north of Okinawa Island. A rich cultural and natural heritage remain in this region, holding the secret to the longevity of the communities living there.

        Kumano’s Path Less Traveled

        A forgotten pilgrimage trail, ancient power spots and authentic rural communities are waiting to be explored this hiking season on the Iseji Trail. Stretch your legs and tickle your spirit to welcome the green season on one of the Kumano Kodo’s finest routes, minus the crowds.

        Okinawa Forest Adventure

        Holiday-goers lounging on Onna’s white sand beaches are no doubt unaware of what’s going on high in the jungle as creatures climb above the forest canopy and zip or swing from tower to tower. Curious travelers will discover a new side of Okinawa’s tropical paradise if they take the leap into a Forest Adventure.

        Ryukyu’s Mountain Turtles – Interview wi...

        Okinawa attracts hordes of travelers to its sandy beaches and warm, clear water with divers and snorkelers often posting images of the majestic local sea turtles. The interior forest and rivers, however, are home to another Okinawa turtle also in need of protection—the small, reclusive, but equally beautiful, yamagame.
    • Races and Events
      • sayuri matsuhashi double role curling athlete japan outdoor

        Silent Resilience

        Curling athlete Sayuri Matsuhashi’s journey to the top of her sport is an inspiration to deaf athletes and women juggling their roles as mothers while also pursuing their professional dreams.

        Winter News and Notes

        Check out the latest news and winter events held at ski resorts all over Japan in 2024!
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Summertime Fun in Shiga Kogen

Joshinetsu National Park, which includes Shiga Kogen, is located in Honshu’s rugged mountainous interior. Signs of human activity quickly disappear just a few steps off the path in this pristine natural setting where wildlife encounters are common in green season. It’s famously home to an adorable group of onsen-lounging snow monkeys as well as one of Japan’s classic ski resorts. Yet when the temperatures rise in summer, the Shiga Kogen highlands are the perfect place for a refreshing escape.

The mountains in the popular Shiga Kogen Ski Area range from 1,300 to over 2,300 meters. This ensures great conditions when other resorts further down in the valley are struggling with lack of snow or warmer temperatures. The high altitude also makes the area a great place to beat the heat in summer while exploring a wide network of hiking trails. There are stunning alpine drives, traditional inns with soothing hot springs and outdoor fun and adventure for the whole family. 

Lake Onuma and Akaishiyama Hiking

shiga kogen summer outdoor japan

The four-kilometer hike from the trailhead to the teal blue Lake Onuma is a medium-level hike that takes two to three hours. Starting from Onuma Iriguchi Bus Stop, follow the gradually ascending gravel road through the native birch forest. There are benches and an open area at the lake to enjoy a snack or picnic lunch. Toilets are available in mid-summer only. Continuing further around the lake’s edge, there is an iconic Shinto torii gate reminiscent of the Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima. The blue volcanic lake contrasted against the bright red torii gate makes a perfect photo spot. 

For a more challenging hike, follow signs towards Akaishiyama. This hike is another two kilometers up a steep winding trail with some rocky spots. Hiking gear such as boots and poles are recommended. The reward at the top is worth it, though. The views of Lake Onuma below and the mighty Northern Japanese Alps in the distance are unforgettable.

For an easier alternative, try the Ike Meguri course. Beginning near the Yokoteyama Ski Area, take the Maeyama summer lift to the summit. From here, a short walk takes you to Shibu Ike (Shibu Pond). Then, it is less than an hour to the Shijuhachiike Marshland via a well-maintained trail. There is a covered seating area and toilet at the Shijuhachiike Marshland. The trail continues to Lake Onuma, where you can catch a bus, though infrequent. You can return the way you came back to Maeyama or take another loop, climbing Mt. Shiga.

Web Connection

  • go-nagano.net/en/topics_detail6/id=12297 
  • shigakogen.co.jp/highlight/ikemeguri
  • snowmonkeyresorts.com/access/nagaden-shiga-kogen-express-bus-timetable/

Scenic Drives

If you want to explore Joshinetsu National Park’s vast terrain, a drive from Shiga Kogen to Kusatsu Onsen or Manza Onsen passes the highest point in Japan’s national highway system. At 2,172 meters, the mountainous scenery and occasionally visible sea of clouds phenomenon seem endless. The contrast between the lush forests of Shiga Kogen to the other-worldly landscape of Mt. Shirane, an active volcano, is stark. Close the window though, as Mt. Shirane spews pungent sulfur. After the scenic drive, stay the night and enjoy some of the hot springs in Kusatsu or Manza Onsen. Consider looping around Takayama Village for another fun road trip with great views. 

For the best lookout, take the Yokoteyama Skylator to Tenma View Terrace. There is nothing better than sipping a hot beverage and eating a crumpet from High Mountain Coffee while soaking in the view. For a heartier meal, visit the Yokoteyama Drive-in or 2307 Cafe. Try the mackerel miso soup, pizza or rice bowls featuring a locally foraged bamboo called nemagaridake. Canned bamboo is available for purchase to take home as a souvenir.

Alternatively, drive from Okushiga Kogen towards Nozawa Onsen or Akiyamago. Akiyamago, in particular, is one of the most remote villages in Japan, with only 200 residents and bear hunters still practicing ancient matagi hunting techniques. 

Kiriake Onsen is a unique experience where hot spring lovers can dig their own bath, mixing cold river water with the hot spring. Nearby, Yusenkaku is a rustic ryokan experience with hot meals and onsen. Hammocks on the outdoor deck and Yusenkaku’s hot spring baths make for a chilled-out stay in the mountains.

Web Connection

  • yokoteyama2307.com
  • go-nagano.net/en/theme/id=19888
  • yusenkaku.yadoroku.jp

Shiga Kogen Adventures

shiga kogen summer outdoor japan

Shiga Kogen Mountain Discovery has stand-up paddle boarding, canyoning, and cycling experiences. Yutaro Yumoto is a resident rafting guide who has brought his adventure travel experience to the area in order to offer more outdoor adventures to visitors. There are family-friendly experiences, as well as more advanced options. After a tour, relax at Shiga Kogen Mountain Discovery’s office on the edge of Biwa Pond. If you still have energy, walk around the pond or go for a swim in the crystal clear water.

shiga kogen summer outdoor japan

Okushiga Kogen Hotel offers activities such as fishing, cycling, trekking, and disc golf. The Grand Phoenix and Okushiga Kogen hotels provide the highest-end hotels in Shiga Kogen.

Web Connection

  • shigakogen-md.com
  • en.okushiga.jp/green/
  • hotelgrandphenix.co.jp/en/

Local Spotlight: Shiho Nakamura

shiga kogen summer outdoor japan

Shiho Nakamura grew up in Shiga Kogen where her family owns and operates Sachinoyu Hotel near the Kumanoyu Ski Area. Sachinoyu has a warm, family-run feel, with comfy Japanese-style rooms and home-cooked meals. In summer, local ski prodigies (including Nakamura’s children) come to train in Sachinoyu’s fitness facilities. Nakamura herself spent her high school years training in Vermont with plans to become a professional skier. She veered off course and instead returned to Japan and worked for Goldman Sachs in Tokyo.

After more than a decade in Tokyo, she yearned to return to the Shiga Kogen area and have a positive impact on her local community in rural Nagano. She first started Spark Outlands with a mission to help revitalize the Yamanouchi area. Among her other ventures, she manages the Shiga Kogen Yamanoeki gift shop while her husband runs the Hiroen co-working space in the same building. Nakamura and her female employee Haruhi bring a breath of fresh air and much-needed female perspective to Shiga Kogen’s conservative traditional culture.

Web Connection

  • sparkoutlands.com
  • hiroen-shigakogen.com/co-working-space/sachinoyu.com/english
  • shigakogen.co.jp/facilities/yamanoeki_summer

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Latest posts

Okinawa’s Blue Zone —A Li...

Dan Buettner’s bestseller, “Blue Zones,” which was also adapted into a hit series on Netflix, identifies five regions with a high number of centenarians. One of these zones is Yambaru, in the north of Okinawa Island. A rich cultural and natural heritage remain in this region, holding the secret to the longevity of the communities living there.

Kumano’s Path Less ...

A forgotten pilgrimage trail, ancient power spots and authentic rural communities are waiting to be explored this hiking season on the Iseji Trail. Stretch your legs and tickle your spirit to welcome the green season on one of the Kumano Kodo’s finest routes, minus the crowds.

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