Nagano
Yamanouchi Town
Discover Yamanouchi Town
Timeless landscapes and natural hot springs
Yamanouchi, known for having some of the most abundant hot springs in Nagano, feels far removed from city life. Breathing in the clear air, your senses gently awaken. Bathe in the natural hot springs here, which have been known for their healing properties since long ago. Savor seasonal flavors. Let the rhythm of the land guide you as your mind and body unwind—a deep, quiet renewal.
Soba: Traditional Japanese Buckwheat Dishes
Wholesome Local Cuisine
Sukagawa soba:
Noodles with a Hearty Texture
Sukagawa soba, a specialty of the Sukagawa area, is made using carefully prepared leaves of oyamabokuchi, a rare variety of wild burdock. This traditional method produces noodles with a smooth texture and a springy bite that become more flavorful as you chew. Their rustic, earthy aroma fills the palate—a true gift from the natural world.
Haya-soba:
A Homestyle Dish Beloved for Generations
Designated an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Nagano Prefecture, Haya-soba is a cherished local dish. The gentle sweetness of grated daikon radish and warm aroma of buckwheat create an honest, simple flavor inviting to the senses. Its restorative, health-giving properties make this one regional specialty you can enjoy to your heart’s content.
Sabatake:
Soul Food Born from Satoyama Wisdom
Sabatake is a beloved homestyle dish in Yamanouchi. Made with crisp nemagaridake bamboo shoots and canned mackerel, this nutritious miso soup is found only in this region. Each bowl reflects the richness of life in the satoyama—a soulful taste to savor and recollect as a fond memory of your journey.
Blissful Moments in Healing Hot Springs
Wellness
A Convergence of Healing Waters in a Land Known for Longevity
Yudanaka-Shibu Onsen is a collection of nine districts where hot springs flow, making it one of Japan’s most renowned onsen destinations. Enjoy the luxury of bathing in the waters of each of these diverse natural hot springs to find the one just right for you. Blessed with such abundant waters, Yudanaka-Shibu Onsen offers a deeply restorative experience that revitalizes both body and soul.
Stroll the Districts, Each with Its Own Distinct Charm
Each district possesses its own atmosphere, adding to the charm of this onsen destination. Stroll down streets that feel suspended in time. Lined with traditional buildings preserved through generations, the ambiance exudes warmth and nostalgia.
Recommended Local Spots
ACCESS
Nagano Prefecture / Yamanouchi Town
Shinkansen Approx. 40 min
Ltd. Exp. Shinano Approx. 2 hrs 30 min
Nagano Dentetsu Approx. 50 min
A Retreat Above the Clouds at 1,770 Meters
SORA Terrace
At the top of Ryuoo Mountain Resort lies Sora Terrace, a sanctuary above the clouds accessible by ropeway. Ascend and enter an open world where sky and mountains blend into one. Here, the sweeping panorama and altitude invigorate and renew.
A Serene Encounter with a Sea of Clouds
When conditions align, a pure white “sea of clouds” spreads out beneath your feet. As the sunset meets the drifting clouds, the scene becomes a mystical work of nature. Take in the shifting colors of the sky and enjoy a moment of complete relaxation.
Home of the Snow Monkeys
Jigokudani Monkey Park
At Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, you can witness something found nowhere else in the world—wild monkeys soaking in natural hot springs just steps away. At the bottom of a rocky, snow‑covered valley, their figures emerge softly veiled in steam, a quiet testament to the life and beauty nurtured by the rich natural environment of Yamanouchi. Enjoy this heartwarming, once‑in‑a‑lifetime scene.
Walking through a Silent Forest, Awakening the Senses
Set deep within a mountain valley, this place is blessed with nature that changes beautifully with each season. Watching the monkeys relax in the hot springs, you may find yourself easing into the same unhurried rhythm.
Your Concierge for Memorable Adventures
Shiga Kogen Visitor Center
The Shiga Kogen highlands rise from 1,300 to 2,300 meters above sea level. Home base here is the Visitor Center, the perfect place to begin an active, mindful journey. Explore the story of life shaped over time by this landscape, from seasonal wildlife to the formation of its distinctive terrain.
A Walk with a Specialist Guide to Encounter Dynamic Nature
A full range of guided tours lets you connect with nature throughout the year. Trek across snowy fields on snowshoes or follow a trail to a mysterious mountain pond. With an experienced guide, even first‑time visitors can enjoy these moments with confidence. Enjoy an authentic outdoor experience that leaves you feeling refreshed.