[For Beginners] Snowshoe Hikes at Norikura Kogen in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture! 5 Recommended Courses

If you head to Norikura Highlands in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture in winter, the slopes where you can enjoy the finest powder snow are fantastic, but "snow hiking," which involves walking on fluffy snow, is an activity that has recently been gaining popularity. There are many ways to enjoy it, such as going to see the frozen waterfalls, walking through the forest where the snowy scenery creates a mystical atmosphere, or following the footprints of wild animals left in the snowy fields. An exciting winter adventure awaits. In this article, we will introduce recommended courses that can be enjoyed by snow hikers of all ages, from beginners to experienced hikers.

5 Recommended Courses in Norikura Highlands

Zengoro Falls flows spectacularly down a height of about 22 meters, sending up refreshing spray during the green season, but in winter its appearance changes completely, revealing the majestic frozen waterfall that seems to tell the story of Norikura's harsh winters.

The round trip takes just under an hour from the tourist center or Zengoro Falls parking lot, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy a casual snow hike or those who want to enjoy it with children.

During the harsh winter, you can see the frozen waterfall up close near the base of the falls, but depending on the temperature, when the snow starts to melt, it can be dangerous to get close to the base of the falls, so please be careful.

Travel time:
40 minutes round trip from Zengoro Falls parking lot
Approximately 1 hour round trip from the tourist center
Physical fitness:★

For those who want to enjoy a casual snow hike, we recommend the walk through the virgin forest to Ushidome Pond.
The virgin forest path behind Kyukamura Norikura Kogen has a quiet and tranquil atmosphere. The snow on the treetops dances in the wind, sparkling in the sunlight filtering through the trees, creating a mystical sight that will leave you entranced.

Don't miss the giant linden tree (commonly known as the Totoro tree) that stands quietly near the entrance to the virgin forest path.
Standing on the frozen Ushidome Pond in the dead of winter and looking up at Mount Norikura and the blue Norikura sky is also spectacular.

Time required: approx. 1 hour
Physical fitness:★

*You can use the parking lot across the road from Kyukamura Norikura Kogen. To start the walk, go through a gate that is closed to vehicles in winter, follow the Echo Line, and after walking for a while (about 10 minutes) you will see a sign for the entrance to the virgin forest on your left. There are numbered signs all the way to the boardwalk at Ushidome Pond, so if you follow them you won't get lost.

For those who want to enjoy a full snow hike over half a day (3-4 hours), we recommend the Norikura Trail. The Norikura Trail is one of the Joyful Walks Norikura trails, and it starts at the trailhead near the tourist center, passing Zengoro Falls and Ushidome Pond, descending to Azami Pond and reaching Ichinose, before returning to the trailhead by walking along the birch path. This trail covers all of the highlights of Norikura Highlands.

This trail has some elevation changes, making it a challenging walk. You can enjoy the snowy scenery of Norikura Highlands, which is unique to winter, while going around the sights.

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
Physical fitness level: ★★

About Norikura Trail
Learn more

For those who want to fully experience the silence of winter, we recommend a snow hike on the Ichinose Grassland Trail. This is also one of the Joyful Walks Norikura trails, but Ichinose in winter is even less crowded, allowing you to fully enjoy the silence of being completely enveloped in the snowy scenery and pure white snow. Even though there are few people, it is easy to find the footprints of wild animals such as rabbits and serows, and the snow is very lively.

Also, along the way, which takes you around three ponds - Azami Pond, Osome Pond, and Maimeno Pond - you will find yourself busy taking photos as there are many view points of Mt. Norikura. In the early morning at Maimeno Pond, you can see the mysterious morning glow.

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours
Physical fitness level: ★★

For more information about the Ichinose Grassland Trail, click here

This course starts at the third parking lot (Yamaboshi Parking Lot) at Mt Norikura Snow Resort and goes around the three waterfalls. The scenery is different from summer, and the path may not be clear, so we recommend walking on a guided tour.
A snow hike to Sanbontaki in winter is not easy, but it is sure to be a special experience that will stimulate your sense of adventure. As you walk further into the quiet coniferous forest, the overwhelming presence of the frozen waterfall appears before your eyes, and an incredibly mystical space unfolds before your eyes.

On the way back to the plateau from Sanbontaki Falls, you will pass through the "Baby Squirrel Path" and "Virgin Forest Path." These are charming paths that allow you to fully enjoy a walk through the winter forest while taking in the snowy scenery along the way. Recommended for those who want to take their time and walk for more than half a day.

Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours
Physical fitness level: ★★★

*There is a risk of getting lost on the route to Sanbontaki in winter, so it is recommended that you join a guided tour.

For more information about the Sanbontaki Trail, click here

Anyone can enjoy snow hiking with peace of mind by joining a guided tour. Norikura Kogen has many guides who are thoroughly familiar with the charms of Norikura in winter and are on standby to help you enjoy Norikura to the fullest, a unique experience that is unique to this season. Be sure to enjoy this experience on a guided tour, which will broaden the scope and depth of your snow play.

In addition to snowshoe tours, there are also nature skiing (walking skiing) tours. If you are looking for a more in-depth activity, try the backcountry tour of Mt. Norikura. Enjoy it with a guide with specialized skills. For details on tour content and prices, please check the guide company's website and make a reservation.

"Little Peaks" is here

Click here for "NORTH STAR"

Click here for "Raicho"

Click here for "Sanoya"

Have you found a place you'd like to go snow hiking? Have a special experience at Norikura Highlands in winter, where the snowy scenery spreads out before you! An exciting, once-in-a-lifetime winter adventure awaits. Come and experience it for yourself!

What kind of equipment and clothing should I wear for snowshoe hiking?

Please also check out the information below.