Guide
National Showa Alps Azumino Park (Hotaka-Horigane Area) is a vast national park situated at the foot of the Northern Alps in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture. The park is divided into the Pastoral Culture Zone and the Satoyama Culture Zone, with facilities designed to harmonize perfectly with the natural environment. Visitors can enjoy a variety of seasonal events and exhibitions that showcase the local culture.
This area is deeply rooted in the rich natural environment of Azumino and the long-standing traditions of pastoral and mountain village (Satoyama) life. The park preserves scenic elements such as traditional watermills and terraced rice fields, and features themed exhibition halls that pass down the history of Japan's rural agricultural culture to future generations.
The park features diverse zones and facilities. Near the central entrance, you will find a guide center, a restaurant, and themed exhibition halls where you can gather local information. Other notable landmarks include the terraced flower gardens, the terraced meadows, Kofun Forest, the mountain stream plaza, and the Karasugawa Suspension Bridge, all of which utilize the unique topography of the land. Depending on the season, you might encounter unique events like a market featuring frog-themed goods or festivals utilizing local seasonal ingredients.
Opening hours vary depending on the season. From March to June (Spring) and September to October (Autumn), the park closes at 17:00. During the summer months (July to August), the closing time is extended to 18:00, allowing for longer stays during the bright daylight hours. From November to February (Winter), the park closes at 16:00. We recommend timing your visit to coincide with seasonal-specific events, such as summer-themed activities involving local trout.
There are numerous programs designed to connect you with local culture and nature. For instance, you can participate in a traditional Soba-uchi (buckwheat noodle making) experience (advance reservation required), enjoy seasonal markets, or dine at restaurants serving dishes made with local ingredients. These activities offer a deeper understanding of the local food culture and way of life beyond simple sightseeing.
In addition to the Hotaka-Horigane area, the park also includes the Omachi-Matsukawa area. If you visit both areas on the same day, a single admission fee covers both sections. The park serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Azumino area via car.
As the park covers a large area, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and appropriate outdoor clothing. Regarding payments, cash and credit cards are accepted at the park's restaurants and certain service points. Please note that smoking is strictly prohibited within the paid areas of the park to prevent secondhand smoke. We recommend checking the official website for the latest event information and reservation requirements before your visit.