Yatsugatake Highlands
A volcanic mountain range of eight peaks reaching 2,899m, straddling the Yamanashi-Nagano border. The Kiyosato Plateau and Kobuchizawa on the Yamanashi side have cheese farms, art galleries, and highland hiking through meadows that bloom with alpine flowers in July. Winter skiing at Yatsugatake Southern Slopes rivals Niseko for powder quality.
Full day–overnight
Free
Open 24 hours (outdoor); ski lifts vary by season
July–August (alpine flowers), December–March (skiing)
Kiyosato Station on JR Koumi Line (from Kobuchizawa; Shinjuku to Kobuchizawa approx. 2 hrs by limited express, then Koumi Line to Kiyosato approx. 30 min; total from Shinjuku to Kiyosato approx. 2.5–3 hrs).
Location
Why Visit
- 1
Kiyosato Plateau cheese farms — Swiss-style production at 1,300m altitude with Yatsugatake views
- 2
Alpine flower meadows bloom July–August with gentian, edelweiss, and primrose on the high trails
- 3
The "Clearing of Yatsugatake" — Fuji views from the summit ridge extend 200km on clear days
Local Tips
The highlands straddle Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures at 1,000–2,899 m. Visit in summer for wildflower meadows and in winter for cross-country skiing. Kiyosato area has forest walks, farm cafes, and clear mountain streams. The Suntory Whisky Hakushu Distillery is nearby and free to visit.
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