Norikura Skyline

Overview

The Norikura Skyline is a mountain road stretching from Azumi, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, to the summit of Mount Norikura, boasting a significant elevation difference and diverse scenery. From the car windows, panoramic views of lush forests, majestic mountains, and the vast blue sky unfold before your eyes. Tateyama, at around 2700m, is a highlight of the Norikura Skyline. Here, a "sky flower garden" bursts with alpine plants, offering a close-up view of delicate blooms. You'll have the chance to encounter rare flowers found only at high altitudes, such as the iconic Komosa (pink moss phlox) and the elegant black lily (Kuroyuri). Tateyama also offers a 360-degree panoramic view. Enjoy a sweeping vista of Norikura Kogen below and the distant Northern Alps. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji. The Norikura Skyline offers diverse activities beyond driving, including hiking, mountaineering, and cycling. Hiking trails cater to various skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Mountaineering enthusiasts can aim for Ken-ga-mine, the highest peak of Mount Norikura, or explore the surrounding peaks. Cycling allows you to enjoy the refreshing mountain air and stunning natural beauty. In addition to nature, the Norikura Skyline also offers glimpses into history and culture. Along the way, you'll find remnants of the "Old Mount Norikura Trail," a former mountaineering path, and the Norikura Visitor Center, which showcases the history of life on Mount Norikura. Be sure to visit these spots when you explore the Norikura Skyline. The Norikura Skyline offers beautiful scenery throughout the year. Spring brings the revival of greenery and a profusion of flowers after the snow melts. Summer showcases the vibrant colors of the sky flower garden, brimming with alpine plants. Autumn paints the mountains in fiery reds and yellows. Winter transforms the landscape into a silver wonderland. The Norikura Skyline is a place to experience the beauty of nature throughout the year. Visit the Norikura Skyline and feel the power of nature and the life it sustains.