Experience a “Japanese Spring” beyond just cherry blossoms: A hidden sanctuary of snow and flowers away from the crowds.
Hakuba Tsugaike Mountain Resort in Otari Village, Nagano, is pleased to announce special early spring operations through May 6, 2026. Visitors can immerse themselves in the “Tsugaike Snow Wall” (available until early April), a massive wall of snow at 1,500m created by the region’s heavy snowfall, as well as the snow activity park “SNOW WOW!” Designed for skiers and non-skiers alike, these attractions offer a rare opportunity to embrace the snow well into the spring season.
Furthermore, on Saturday, June 6, Tsugaike Nature Park—one of Japan’s premier high-altitude wetlands—will celebrate its seasonal opening. Visitors can witness a unique seasonal transition where lingering snow, skunk cabbages, and cherry blossoms bloom simultaneously, creating a breathtaking contrast of silver-white and pale pink found only at this time and place.
Enjoy Snow Until Spring! Hakuba Tsugaike Mountain Resort
Hakuba Tsugaike Mountain Resort is currently running early spring operations until May 6. Even as spring arrives elsewhere, the summit area remains a world apart, boasting incredible snow depth and quality. At the top of the Tsugaike Highlands—accessible by a scenic gondola and ropeway ride—visitors can enjoy spring-specific snow life, including backcountry tours and snowshoeing. Even without skiing or snowboarding, tourists can easily access the summit at approx. 1,900m to experience the stunning snowscapes and panoramic views of the Northern Alps.
[Ropeway Operating Dates]
March 7 (Sat) – March 31 (Tue), 2026: Daily
April 3 (Fri) – April 26 (Sun), 2026: Fri, Sat, Sun only
April 29 (Wed) – May 6 (Wed, Holiday), 2026: Daily
[Ropeway Operating Hours]
March 7 – March 31: 8:30 – 15:00 (Final down-bound 15:00)
April 3 – April 26: 8:30 – 15:30 (Final down-bound 15:30)
April 29 – May 6: 8:30 – 15:30 (Final down-bound 15:30) *Please board the Gondola Lift “Eve” (up-bound) by 15:00.
[Ropeway Fares]
Adult: Round trip 1,480 JPY / One way 850 JPY
Child: Round trip 780 JPY / One way 460 JPY *Standard ski resort lift passes cannot be used for the ropeway. Please purchase a separate ticket. *A mountain climbing registration (climbing plan) must be submitted to purchase a ropeway ticket.
Official Website: https://www.tsugaike.gr.jp/
A Hit for Non-Skiers: “SNOW WOW!” Snow Activity Park
Located mid-mountain at Hakuba Tsugaike Mountain Resort, “SNOW WOW!” offers a variety of activities for those who don’t ski or snowboard.It is a hands-on snow park where you can enjoy the “joy of the silver world” without gear or experience.
[Featured Activities]
Buggy Cruising: Race across the snow fields in a 5-seater 4-wheel buggy—a thrilling shared experience for families and friends.
Snow Racer: A sled equipped with a steering wheel and brakes. Easy speed control makes it perfect for beginners seeking a rush.
Classic Sleds: A timeless favorite for families with small children, ensuring a safe and fun snow debut.
SNOW WOW! Website: https://www.tsugaike.gr.jp/snow/snow_wow
Experience the Majesty of the Breathtaking 3-Meter-Plus “Tsugaike Snow Wall”
The “Tsugaike Snow Wall” is a massive corridor carved out of the winter’s heavy snowfall. Reaching heights of over 3 meters, its sheer scale provides a spectacular sight that overwhelms all who visit.
Carved into the snowy landscape at an altitude of 1,500m, this snow wall is a signature attraction of Hakuba Tsugaike Mountain Resort, showcasing the region’s incredible snow depth.
One of its primary draws is the well-maintained walking path, allowing visitors of all ages—from children to seniors—to explore the area safely. Accessible via a scenic gondola ride that feels like an attraction in itself, it has become a popular destination even for non-skiers.
The towering snow walls provide a stunning backdrop for photography, gaining significant attention as a premier photogenic spot for visitors looking to capture the perfect shot.
Tsugaike Nature Park Opens June 6: Where Lingering Snow Meets Cherry Blossoms
Tsugaike Nature Park, situated at an altitude of approximately 1,900m in Otari Village, Nagano, will open for the season on Saturday, June 6. Immediately after opening, the park reveals a stunning landscape where early summer sunlight glitters off “lingering snow,” “Asian skunk cabbages” emerge from the thaw, and “rare alpine cherry blossoms” bloom in a cross-seasonal display.
Experience a landscape full of vitality and tranquil time, far removed from the bustle of the city and overtourism.
What is Tsugaike Nature Park?
Spanning an altitude of 1,900m within the Chubu Sangaku National Park, it is one of Japan’s leading high-altitude wetlands. Visitors can walk along well-maintained wooden boardwalks and, on clear days, enjoy grand views of the Hakuba Sanzan peaks.
Its charm lies in its seasonal transformations: skunk cabbages in spring, delicate alpine flora in summer, and golden grasses in autumn. Due to its high elevation, temperatures remain 5–6°C cooler than the plains even in summer, offering a refreshing breeze for a comfortable stroll.
Tsugaike Nature Park Website: https://sizenen.otarimura.com/
For Tourism Information on Otari Village, Check Our Official YouTube!
The Otari Village Tourism Federation Official YouTube channel provides up-to-date information on the village’s attractions, from winter activities to green season adventures.
Otari Village Tourism Federation YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK8QWdgiS4h603CbgPiGHmg
Press Release juga sudah tayang di VRITIMES