Page 26 - RCI-FlipBook-pacific

TATESHINA, CHINO
GREEN GEM OF JAPAN
If waking up to a view of mountainous terrains is your idea of pleasure, Tateshina, Chino in Nagano prefecture of Japan could just be your heaven on earth.
Tateshina Highland, or ‘Tateshina kogen’ in Japanese, is located at northwestern slope of Yatsugatake mountains. A potpourri of sweeping panorama, lavish comforts and natural adventure, this little town is a green gem yet to be fully discovered by the outside world. Locals travel in from all over Japan to escape into the heart of nature — waking up to crisp fresh air, taking in the majestic beauty of mountains and lakes, and admiring cherry blossoms and local arts. Unveil one of Japan’s best-kept secrets of lush greens and languid luxury.
PEAK BEAUTY
Rising majestically at 2899 metres
is Mount Akadake, the main peak of Yatsugatake. Legend has it that the Yatsugatake Mountains were once
higher than Mount Fuji. Jealousy urged Konohanasakuya-hime, the Goddess of Mount Fuji to tear down Yatsugatake into a collection of volcanic mountains. With the magnificent Mount Akadake and the Southern Alps’ curving smoothly across
blue skies, Yatsugatake is breathtaking in the beautiful morning light. Hop on the Kita Yatsugatake Rope Way to soak in the mountainous view while travelling up
the summit station at 2237 metres. When night falls, gaze out at the busy skies, lit by twinkling stars.
NATURE VENTURE
For the adventurous at heart, deepen your breathtaking experience by ascending
the mountains by foot. Various hiking paths are available for casual hikers to professional alpinists. A popular route
is from Minotoguchi stop, taking 4.5 hours for hiking to the peak of Akadake. Northern Yatsugatake is a gentle route perfect for first-timers, with thicker forests blocking out winds and numerous trekking guides available.
24 MAY 2016