乗鞍に春を告げる水芭蕉｜のりくら観光協会公式サイト

Spring slowly arrives in Norikura. Skunk cabbage, which begins to bloom as the snow melts, is the first flower of spring that locals look forward to. The beautiful appearance of the skunk cabbage is loved by many visitors to Norikura. It is in reference to their cuteness that the area has been nicknamed "White Riding Hood Hometown."
We will introduce you to some of the best spots on the plateau where you can see skunk cabbage in colonies from late April to mid-May.

Skunk cabbage heralds spring in Norikura

1. The Mystery of Skunk Cabbage

When spring finally arrives in Norikura, the skunk cabbage displays its lovely appearance. But do you know where the skunk cabbage flowers come from? They are actually the densely packed yellow part that blooms in the central "spadish spike." What look like large white petals are actually bracts, which are leaves that encase the buds. The bracts of the skunk cabbage, which belongs to the Araceae family, are called spathes.

Although it is a member of the Araceae family, the skunk cabbage is said to actually be poisonous. The Asiatic black bears that live on the Norikura Plateau are said to wake up from hibernation and eat this poisonous skunk cabbage to eliminate winter waste.

❷ Miyanohara Skunk Basho Colony

This is the first colony that can be seen on the plateau, from late April. A small boardwalk leads you to the flock of white riding hoods. You can almost hear the cries of joy at the arrival of spring coming from all around your feet. If you have your own car, park in the car park at Fureai Park Norikura and enjoy a 30-minute walk.
(See Norikura Walking Guide Course A)

3. Remembrance Pond (Ichinose)

The skunk cabbages of Ichinose are usually at their best around Golden Week. Omoibu Pond is located just a short distance from the Maimenoike parking lot, and you can enjoy the view of the snow-capped Mount Norikura. The sight of the skunk cabbages blooming in this open, panoramic location is refreshing.

❹ Loach Pond (Ichinose)

Located just a short distance from the Azalea Garden parking lot, this is a great spot to take photos with Mount Norikura towering over the forest surrounding the pond. The pond is reflected upside down, and pretty skunk cabbage flowers pop up here and there on the surface of the water. Enjoy this mystical view.

❺ Women's Hut Forest (Ichinose)

The Skunk Cabbage of Megoya Forest is recommended for those who can walk for about 1-2 hours. In Megoya Forest, which spreads out deep in Ichinose, you can enjoy close-up views of the Skunk Cabbage blooming quietly beside the boardwalk. The forest, filled with white fairies in full bloom, has a fantastical atmosphere, making you feel as if you have wandered into a fairy tale world.
(See Norikura Walking Guide Course D)

❻ Ushidome Pond

If you walk along the boardwalk around Ushidome Pond from the Kyukamura, you can see the skunk cabbage blooming along the boardwalk. (See Course E in the Norikura Walking Guide.)

This time we introduced the best spots to see skunk cabbage in Norikura Highlands. Did you find any places that caught your eye?
Come and see the skunk cabbages that appear with the arrival of spring at Norikura Plateau and bloom with a dignified presence.