Exploring the Rich Nature and Hot Spring Culture of Okuhida

Located in the heart of Okuhida, Chubusangaku National Park is one of Japan’s oldest and most renowned national parks. Located in the central part of Honshu, the park spans the Northern Japanese Alps, encompassing parts of Nagano, Gifu, Toyama, and Niigata Prefectures. The park was created to protect the region’s stunning alpine landscapes, characterized by towering peaks, deep valleys, and lush forests. The mountains, including famous peaks such as Mt. Hotaka, Mt. Yarigatake, and Mt. Norikura, have long been considered sacred by the people who live nearby. These mountains were the inspiration for many early Japanese mountaineers, who played a significant role in the park’s establishment.

During the Meiji era (1868-1912), Western explorers and mountaineers, such as British missionary Walter Weston, popularized the region as a destination for hiking and mountaineering. Weston’s efforts earned him the nickname “the father of Japanese mountaineering,” and his influence is commemorated in the region today. The park’s development over the decades has balanced conservation with tourism, making it a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers while preserving its pristine wilderness.

The park is dominated by some of Japan’s highest peaks, including Mt. Hotaka and Mt. Yarigatake, which rise above 3,000 meters. These towering mountains are characterized by rugged terrain, sharp ridges, and deep valleys, offering breathtaking views and challenging hikes.

The park’s diverse ecosystems range from dense forests at lower elevations to alpine meadows and rock-strewn landscapes near the summits. Crystal-clear rivers, such as the Azusa and Kurobe, carve through the valleys, creating picturesque gorges and waterfalls. Kamikochi, a highlight of the park, is a stunning plateau surrounded by snow-capped peaks, with the serene Taisho Pond reflecting the mountains. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including Japanese serows, ptarmigans, and rare alpine plants, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Chubusangaku is also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities year-round. Hiking and mountaineering are the most popular, with trails leading to iconic peaks like Mt. Hotaka and Mt. Yarigatake. Kamikochi provides scenic routes for both casual walkers and experienced trekkers. In winter, the park becomes a haven for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing, with pristine powder and stunning alpine scenery. The park’s rivers are ideal for fishing, while the natural hot springs scattered throughout the area offer a relaxing way to unwind after outdoor adventures.

Okuhida Onsen Town, nestled in the Japanese Alps, is a picturesque destination renowned for its natural hot springs and serene mountain scenery. Located in Gifu Prefecture, this charming area comprises five distinct onsen villages: Hirayu, Fukuji, Shin-Hirayu, Tochio, and Shin-Hotaka. Each village offers its unique blend of traditional inns (ryokan), outdoor baths (rotenburo), and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

The hot springs in Okuhida are famous for their high-quality mineral-rich waters, which are said to have therapeutic properties. Many of the outdoor baths are set in beautiful natural surroundings, allowing visitors to soak while enjoying panoramic views of the mountains, especially the towering peaks of the Northern Japanese Alps. Okuhida also  serves as a gateway to a variety outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and ropeway rides. The Shin-Hotaka Ropeway, in particular, offers breathtaking views and easy access to alpine trails, making Okuhida an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure.

The Hida Takayama Tezutsu Fireworks and Hida Togenkyo Kuguno Summer Festival are vibrant cultural events in the Hida region, blending tradition with spectacular displays.

The Tezutsu Fireworks in Takayama feature handheld fireworks, or tezutsu, which are crafted from bamboo and filled with gunpowder. The event showcases the skill and bravery of those who handle these powerful pyrotechnics, making it a thrilling experience for spectators.

The Hida Togenkyo Kuguno Summer Festival offers a lively mix of traditional music, dance and festivities. The festival features performances of folk songs and dances, such as the Kuguno Bon Odori, where participants don colorful summer kimono (yukata) and dance to the rhythm of taiko drums. Together, these festivals capture the spirit and cultural heritage of the Hida region, offering visitors a unique and memorable experience.