Guida
Chausuyama Highland is a beautiful plateau located between Mount Chausu, the highest peak in Aichi Prefecture at 1,415m, and Mount Hagitaro. Situated on the border of Toyone Village in Aichi and Neba Village in Nagano, this area is a premier resort destination known for its dramatic seasonal shifts. Visitors can witness the vast pink carpets of moss phlox in spring, the lush greenery of summer, the fiery colors of autumn, and the serene white landscapes of winter. The well-developed lift system allows easy access to high-altitude viewpoints, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Nestled within a scenic quasi-national park, this region has long been cherished for its preserved natural environment. Today, it serves as a developed tourism hub that balances recreation with nature conservation. The area also holds cultural significance; for instance, the Chausuyama Highland Museum showcases the work of photographer Shinzo Maeda, whose photography captures the profound beauty of the Okumikawa region, helping visitors appreciate the landscape through an artistic lens.
The attractions at Chausuyama Highland change with the seasons. The most iconic experience is the 'Sky Flower Corridor' accessible via a scenic sightseeing lift. During the spring season, approximately 330,000 moss phlox plants bloom, turning the landscape into a sea of pink. In winter, the area transforms into a vital ski resort for the prefecture, perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Other notable spots include the tranquil Yazuhazu Pond, various rest houses for relaxation, and the unique 'Starry Sky Cafe,' where visitors can enjoy breathtaking celestial views.
Activities vary significantly by season. Spring (early May to early June) is the peak time for the moss phlox, and most visitors use the lift to enjoy the high-altitude views. Summer is ideal for outdoor leisure such as hiking, mountain biking, boating, and go-karting. Autumn brings a stunning display of fall foliage. Winter (late December to mid-March) is the primary season for skiing and snowboarding. For a truly special experience, the 'Starry Sky Cafe' opens only once a month, offering an unparalleled view of the stars from a high altitude. Please check specific operating hours for facilities like BBQ areas or ski lifts before visiting.
There is no shortage of things to do at the highland. During summer and transitional seasons, you can enjoy mountain biking, mountain boarding, boating, canoeing, or go-karting. Well-maintained hiking trails are also available for nature lovers. In winter, the focus shifts to snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. If you wish to enjoy a BBQ, designated areas are available and require reservations. Please note that because this is a quasi-national park, strict rules apply regarding fire use and must be confined to designated spots.
There are several other attractions near Chausuma Highland to enhance your stay. For example, the 'Yu-land Palto-yone' hot spring facility is located nearby, making it a perfect way to relax after a day of outdoor activities. Additionally, the Chausuyama Highland Museum offers a way to experience the local scenery through the lens of professional photography, adding a touch of culture to your mountain retreat.
As a high-altitude plateau, weather can change rapidly. Please bring clothing suitable for the season; especially warm layers for winter skiing or windbreakers for spring/autumn hiking. Since this is a quasi-national park, strict rules regarding fire and smoking are enforced—smoking is strictly prohibited outside of designated areas. Regarding payments, please be aware that most facilities only accept CASH (credit cards and IC cards are generally not accepted). There are no convenience stores or ATMs in the immediate vicinity, so please prepare your cash and essential supplies in advance.