Norikura Plateau

Norikura Kogen is a cool plateau stretching from 1,100 to 1,800 meters above sea level at the foot of the eastern mountains of Mt.

The plateau is surrounded by beautiful larch and birch forests, creating a tranquil, bright image of Switzerland.

There are more than 100 lodging facilities, including inns, pensions, and guest houses, as well as many restaurants, soba noodle stores, souvenir shops, and ski rental facilities.

The area is rich in nature and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. If you are lucky, you can see the Japanese serow, a special natural treasure.
Several hot springs are gushing out of the valley.

Norikura Kogen Trail
There are a variety of trails, including the Ichinose Park Circuit Course, the Zengoro Waterfall and Ushidome Pond Course, the Banjo Great Falls and Senma Fuchi Circuit Course, and the Legend Tour Course, all centered around the Norikura Nature Conservation Center.

Ushidome Pond
Ushidome Pond is a representative pond of the Norikura Plateau, located in a depression in the lava plateau created by the eruption of Mt. Norikura from its eastern shore.

Norikura from its eastern shore. The mirror-like surface of the lake is also impressive.
Surrounded by virgin forest, the quiet pond is home to alpine dragonflies, such as the Ruri damselfly, and rare species such as salamanders and forest green tree frogs, as well as Japanese cypress and Asian skunk-cabbage.

From late May to early June, visitors can see the vivid contrast of white and green Mizubashou (Asian skunk-cabbage).

Norikura Kogen Holiday Village
Located at the top of the Norikura Plateau at an elevation of around 1,600 meters, this European-style mountain resort overlooks the majestic Northern Alps.

The “Amine-no-yu” Azumi-Norikura hot spring, which wells up from 1,300 meters below the ground, offers a relaxing soak in an open-air bath while viewing the fresh greenery, autumn leaves, and snowy landscape that changes with the seasons.