Guida
Kayanodaira Plateau is a vast volcanic highland located in Kijimadaira Village, Nagano Prefecture, stretching from an altitude of approximately 1,400m to 1,700m. Situated on the northern side of the Joshin'etsu Kogen National Park, it covers an area of about 1,450 hectares. The most striking feature of this area is its ancient beech forest, with trees exceeding 300 years in age. This forest is often praised as one of the most beautiful beech forests in Japan, maintaining a rich and pristine ecosystem. It is also a treasure trove of alpine plants, offering a landscape that changes with every season, from misty wetlands to breathtaking starry nights, allowing visitors to feel a deep sense of unity with nature.
Formed by volcanic activity, this plateau's topography tells a story of geological evolution. The area has long been a symbol of the local natural environment, with the ancient beech forests being carefully preserved over generations. Nearby, areas such as the 'Great Beech Local Forest' exist to promote both nature conservation and sustainable tourism. Today, the plateau is a beloved destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking forest therapy and ecological observation.
The charms of Kayanodaira Plateau vary depending on when you visit. The expansive ancient beech forest offers a powerful sense of life's vitality regardless of the season. Another highlight is the two major wetlands: 'Kita-dobu Wetland' and 'Minami-dobu Wetland.' Here, visitors can witness the seasonal beauty of blooming flowers, such as Lysimachia (Mizubasho) in spring and Nikko Kisuge (Lilium japonicum) in summer. Due to the high altitude, the night sky is exceptionally clear, providing an unobstructed view of the stars. Additionally, during the summer, you can see cattle grazing at the Kayanodaira Pasture, offering a quintessential highland landscape.
Each season offers a unique experience. From late May, the 'Minami-dobu Wetland' becomes a beautiful sight with the blooming of Lysimachia. In early June, the forest is wrapped in the vibrant, fresh greenery of new beech leaves. From early to late July, the Nikko Kisuge flowers bloom in abundance around the Kita-dobu Wetland. For those interested in trekking or camping, timing your visit with these floral blooms is highly recommended. Please note that during the winter, roads may be closed due to heavy snowfall; always check the road status before traveling. At night, the view of the stars from the lodges and campsites is truly spectacular.
A wide range of activities allows you to immerse yourself in the natural world. You can enjoy trekking and hiking along well-maintained paths through the beech forest and wetlands. For those looking to stay overnight, the area offers camping, including auto-camping sites. The 'Kayanodaira Kogen Lodge' provides a cozy, mountain-style accommodation experience. Furthermore, the 'Kayanodaira Nature Education Center,' an educational facility of Shinshu University, offers observation paths to learn about the beech forest ecosystem. It is highly recommended to check the latest information regarding trail conditions or bear sightings at the information center before heading out.
Located north of Shiga Kogen, the plateau is surrounded by numerous natural landmarks. The Kayanodaira Pasture, nearby, features grazing cattle during the summer months. The area also serves as a hub for nature conservation, including the 'Great Beech Local Forest.' A common access route is via National Route 403 through the Seishui Forest Road. This region is widely utilized as a 'Recreation Forest' perfect for outdoor activities and nature observation.
As a high-altitude plateau, weather can change rapidly. Please prepare appropriate clothing, including layers for warmth and sturdy shoes for trekking. During the flowering seasons, be mindful of wet paths and dropping temperatures. Regarding payments, please bring plenty of cash, as many facilities primarily accept cash. For English-language inquiries, you can contact the facilities via their official websites or email. It is also recommended to make reservations for lodges or trekking details in advance via the official website or by phone (080-2521-7661). To protect the environment, please follow local rules: carry out all trash and do not disturb the plants or wildlife.