A Unique Summer-to-Autumn Experience: Guide to Tsugaike Mountain Resort
Located in Nagano Prefecture, the Hakuba area is a nature-rich destination surrounded by the majestic Northern Japan Alps.
It is especially well known as a ski resort area offering high-quality powder snow, with several world-class ski slopes scattered throughout.
Beyond winter, Hakuba is also home to numerous spots where visitors can enjoy beautiful mountain scenery, rare alpine plants, and a wide variety of outdoor activities—making it a year-round destination with diverse appeal.
This article introduces the highlights and attractions of Tsugaike Mountain Resort, one of the most popular spots in the Hakuba area, focusing on the unique experiences available from early summer through autumn.
What Is Tsugaike Mountain Resort Like?
Located in the northwestern part of Nagano Prefecture, Tsugaike Mountain Resort is one of the largest highland resorts in the Hakuba area.
It offers visitors the chance to fully enjoy the abundant natural beauty of the Northern Japan Alps throughout the four seasons.
During the green season (typically from mid-June to early November), guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, trekking, and mountain biking.
A highlight of the area is its colorful landscapes created by rare alpine plants not easily seen elsewhere, along with spectacular mountain views.
Thanks to its high elevation, the area remains cool even in summer, with crisp, refreshing air that makes outdoor exploration comfortable and pleasant.
How to Get to Tsugaike Mountain Resort
The nearest station to Tsugaike Mountain Resort is Minami-Otari Station on the JR Oito Line.
However, since you need to transfer to a local village bus from the station, it's more convenient to take the direct bus from JR Nagano Station.
From Nagano Station, board the ALPICO Hakuba Express Bus heading toward Hakuba. The ride takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.
If you're arriving via Shinshu Matsumoto Airport, take the shuttle bus bound for Tsugaike Kogen.
*Note: The shuttle bus requires advance reservation and is only available to airport users.
Ride the Gondola and Ropeway for Stunning Views of the Northern Japan Alps
At Tsugaike Mountain Resort, visitors can ride the Tsugaike Gondola Lift “Eve”—the second longest in Japan—and the only ropeway on Mt. Hakuba, reaching elevations of around 1,900 meters with ease. Both offer access to some of the most breathtaking views in the Hakuba area.
The “Eve” gondola connects an elevation of approximately 1,000 meters to 1,600 meters in about 20 minutes, offering panoramic views of the Hakuba mountain range and the base of Tsugaike along the way.
In spring, you’ll see vibrant fresh greenery; in summer, lush deep greens; in autumn, colorful foliage; and in winter, a snow-covered wonderland. The stunning views make the ride itself a memorable part of your journey.
From the top gondola station, transfer to the Tsugaike Ropeway, which quickly ascends from 1,600 meters to near the entrance of Tsugaike Nature Park.
In addition to sweeping views of the Northern Japan Alps, visitors may also catch a glimpse of a stunning sea of clouds on especially clear days—an extraordinary five-minute journey through the sky.
Enjoy a Scenic Hike Through Tsugaike Nature Park
Located within Chubusangaku National Park, Tsugaike Nature Park is one of Japan’s premier high-altitude wetlands, sitting at approximately 1,900 meters above sea level.
The park is divided into four distinct wetland areas, connected by about 5.5 km of wooden walkways.
It typically takes between 3.5 and 4 hours to walk the full course, but shorter routes are also available—such as a one-hour loop—making it accessible even for families with children or those who prefer a lighter hike.
Highlights of the park include its wild flora and fauna, striking landscapes, and rare alpine flowers that bloom in every season.
In mid-June, broad fields of Asian skunk cabbage (mizubasho) reach their peak bloom, creating a beautiful contrast between the lingering snow and the fresh greenery.
From July through August, a variety of alpine plants such as day lilies (nikkokisuge) and cotton grass (watasuge) bloom in vivid colors, offering a photogenic panorama.
In September, the wetlands turn golden with autumn grasses, and in early October, the area is covered in fiery red and orange foliage.
1. Mizubasho Wetland
Located at the entrance of the park, the Mizubasho Wetland features a gently sloping 1-km wooden boardwalk that is wheelchair-accessible.
This round-trip route takes about an hour, making it a comfortable stroll for young children and older visitors alike.
Despite its short length, it’s filled with scenic highlights, including clusters of alpine flowers and clear mountain streams where char (iwana) swim.
From mid to late June, vast swaths of Asian skunk cabbage bloom across the wetlands, covering the area in a sea of pristine white flowers.
2. Watasuge Wetland
Just a short walk beyond Mizubasho Wetland is the open expanse of Watasuge Wetland.
This subalpine zone is home to low-lying vegetation, and along the way, you can spot natural wind caves where snow remains even in summer.
The main attraction here is the cotton grass (watasuge), which grows in fluffy white clusters.
After blooming with yellow flowers in early June, it develops soft white tufts by around August that sway gently in the breeze—a quintessential symbol of summer in the mountains.
Alpine plants such as irises also bloom around the same time, bathing the wetland in vivid seasonal colors.
The round-trip distance is about 2 km and takes roughly 1.5 hours, making it ideal for those looking for a moderate, enjoyable walk.
3. Ukishima Wetland
Crossing the Kusukawa River from Watasuge Wetland brings you to Ukishima Wetland, the largest of the four in Tsugaike Nature Park.
This area is famous for its picturesque landscape of small floating islands (pondlets), making it a popular spot for photography.
In summer, you can see day lilies (nikkokisuge) blooming with trumpet-shaped flowers, and in autumn, the wetland turns vivid with the seasonal colors of plants like dwarf cinquefoil (chinguruma) and black crowberry (kuromamenoki).
The round-trip distance is about 3 km and takes roughly 2.5 hours. The terrain includes steep slopes and sections of mountain trails beyond the wooden walkways.
Because of this, proper hiking gear is recommended, and the route is best suited for those looking to enjoy a more active trekking experience.
4. Tenbo Wetland
After passing through the previous three wetlands, you will arrive at Tenbo Wetland, located at an elevation of 2,010 meters.
Along the way, you’ll encounter fascinating natural features, such as the narrow ridges lined with rare plant species like ghost pipe (ginryoso) and the Japan-endemic Shiraneaoi.
There’s also a spot where you can collect fresh spring water from the Northern Japan Alps.
Another highlight is the small pond called “Mosengoke Pond,” where carnivorous sundews grow—perfect for nature enthusiasts interested in alpine plants and birds.
At the end of the trail, Tenbo Wetland offers a panoramic view of the Hakuba Daisekkei snow valley, so close that you can even spot mountaineers on the glacier.
The full round-trip course is approximately 5.5 km and takes around 3.5 hours, making it ideal for those who want to fully explore the beauty of Tsugaike Nature Park.
Take a Break at Tsugaike Yokocho After Your Hike
Located at the base of the gondola at Tsugaike Mountain Resort, Tsugaike Yokocho is the perfect place to relax after your hike.
Centered around a footbath, this rest area features various restaurants and food stalls offering a wide range of local delicacies.
Note that some shops may not operate during the green season, so it’s a good idea to check the official website in advance for their hours of operation.
One must-visit spot in the green season is the café restaurant TSUGABASE.
With its urban exterior and stylish, photo-worthy atmosphere, it’s a popular destination year-round. The open layout, complete with terrace seating and standing tables, adds to its relaxed charm.
Whether you're stopping for a quick break or a full meal, you’ll find something to enjoy.
There’s also a great selection of summer-friendly drinks, such as cold-brew coffee made with natural spring water (available only in summer) and local craft beers from Nagano.
A highly recommended combo is the craft beer paired with a pork burger.
And don’t miss the footbath—perfect for soothing your tired body after a day of hiking or outdoor fun.
The footbath is generally free to use (towels are also provided) and is popular as a communal space where you can chat with other visitors.
You can even enjoy food and drinks while soaking your feet.
Experience Unique Outdoor Fun at HAKUBA TSUGAIKE WOW!
“Hakuba Tsugaike WOW!” is a new adventure facility located at Shirakaba Station (the mid-station), about five minutes up the gondola lift from Tsugaike Kogen Station.
This unique spot offers 13 different activities that let you enjoy the land, air, and water, making it a place where you can move your body to the fullest.
Among the most recommended attractions is “Kogidas,” where you ride a bicycle across a tightrope 10 meters above a pond, and “Pochadasu,” a summer-only floating water activity set on a beautiful pond filled with snowmelt.
These experiences offer a rare thrill, combining excitement and breathtaking views with the stunning backdrop of the Northern Japan Alps.
Other notable attractions include the “Tent Sauna,” where you can relax amidst nature, and the “Buggy Cruise,” a powerful off-road ride. With so many exclusive features, you’ll never get bored, even after a full day of adventure.
Plenty to Enjoy During the Winter Season, Too
During the winter season (early December to early May), Tsugaike Mountain Resort transforms into a ski area known for its expansive slopes and high-quality powder snow.
One of its most prominent features is a long run with a maximum skiable distance of 5,000 meters.
The slopes stretch up to an altitude of 1,700 meters and offer a wide range of courses for all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers.
The trails are designed with scenic views in mind, allowing everyone to enjoy skiing while appreciating the natural beauty around them.
The resort also offers various snow activities and dining options, making it a popular destination not just for winter sports, but for a full winter experience.
Wrap-up
This article has introduced the charms, highlights, and ways to enjoy Tsugaike Mountain Resort, located in the Hakuba area of Nagano Prefecture.
While the resort is often associated with winter, it's also filled with wonderful spots and experiences to enjoy from early summer through autumn.
Whether you're visiting with family, friends, or a partner, the resort offers attractions that everyone can enjoy.
If you're planning a trip to the Hakuba area and looking for a destination, be sure to consider Tsugaike Mountain Resort.