A Long Mountain Valley Shaped by the Chikuma River
Sakuho Town stretches from east to west and has a distinctive landscape centered on the Chikuma River, the upper reaches of the Shinano River. The JR Koumi Line and National Route 141 run alongside the river, forming important transportation routes through the town.
National Route 299 and the Nukui River extend toward the east and west, connecting communities in the surrounding mountains. To the east, mountain passes such as Jikkoku Pass and Yochi Pass lead toward Ueno and Nanmoku in Gunma Prefecture. To the west, the highlands around Mount Yoko and Mugikusa Pass connect Sakuho with Chino and the Yatsugatake area.
This geography gives Sakuho a distinctly mountainous character. Forested slopes, clear streams, highland wetlands, and mountain passes surround the town, creating scenery that changes dramatically with the seasons.
Mountains, Rivers and Highland Lakes
The area’s major natural features include Mount Morai, the Chikuma, Nukui, and Oishi Rivers, and the highland lakes of Lake Shirakoma and Futago Pond. These mountains and waterways are closely connected to the daily life and culture of the region.
Mount Morai rises to 1,717 meters and is one of the notable mountains of the Saku region. Hiking routes lead through its forests, where visitors can encounter the enormous Tochigi tree known as Kobu-Taro, believed to be several hundred years old.
Lake Shirakoma and the Moss Forest
A Mysterious Highland Lake at 2,115 Meters
Lake Shirakoma is one of Sakuho’s most spectacular natural attractions. Located at an elevation of approximately 2,115 meters in the northern Yatsugatake Mountains, it is renowned for its remarkably clear water and the primeval forest that surrounds it.
Surrounded by ancient trees such as Japanese stone pine, spruce, and Maries’ fir, the lake has an almost untouched mountain atmosphere. On a calm, sunny day, the surface of the water becomes a natural mirror, reflecting the surrounding forest and sky.
The lake can be reached with a walk of approximately 15 minutes from the nearby parking area. A well-maintained trail makes it possible for visitors who are not experienced mountaineers to enjoy the atmosphere of this high-altitude forest.
The landscape changes beautifully throughout the year. Pink flowers appear in the late spring, while rowan berries turn bright red in autumn. For hikers and trekkers heading into the Yatsugatake Mountains, Lake Shirakoma is a memorable place to begin their journey.
The Enchanted Moss Forest
The forest surrounding Lake Shirakoma is covered with a thick carpet of moss, creating one of the most atmospheric woodland landscapes in Nagano. Approximately 485 species of moss are found in the area, thriving in the cool, humid environment beneath the ancient trees.
Several sections of the forest have their own names and distinctive characteristics, allowing visitors to observe the subtle differences in the moss and woodland environment. Looking closely, perhaps with a small magnifying glass, reveals remarkable variations in color, shape, texture, and the places where each species grows.
In 2008, the area around Lake Shirakoma was recognized by the Bryological Society of Japan as one of Japan’s valuable moss forests, under the designation “Primeval Forests Around Lake Shirakoma in Yatsugatake.”
The forest is an especially fragile ecosystem. Visitors should remain on designated trails and avoid stepping on the moss or entering areas away from the paths. Protecting this quiet environment helps ensure that its extraordinary beauty can be enjoyed by future generations.
Yachiho Highland and Its Vast White Birch Forest
A Beautiful Forest of White Birch
Yachiho Highland spreads across the foothills of the Yatsugatake Mountains at an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters. Created by volcanic activity, the highland is famous for its vast stands of white birch.
Approximately 500,000 white birch trees grow across an area of around 200 hectares, creating a striking landscape of slender white trunks and fresh green leaves. The bright forest is particularly beautiful beneath the clear spring and summer skies, when the sound of the wind moving through the trees blends with birdsong.
In May, reddish-purple azalea blossoms add color beneath the white birch trees. Other azaleas, including Japanese azalea and Japanese andromeda, also grow throughout the area, creating a rich seasonal display.
A Forest That Changes with the Seasons
Yachiho’s forests are not simply white birch forests. Japanese oak, larch, and many species of wildflowers grow among the trees, while birds fill the woodland with sound.
Spring begins with soft yellow-green leaves and fresh growth. As wildflowers such as Japanese primrose and red-flowered pyrola appear, the forest becomes increasingly colorful. In autumn, the foliage gradually changes into brilliant shades of gold.
When the leaves fall, the forest opens toward the sky, announcing the arrival of winter. Against the deep blue winter sky, the white birch trunks and snow-covered ground create a striking landscape of white and blue.
Yachiho Highland is therefore a forest for every season, offering a different atmosphere each time you visit.
Yachiho Highland: Forests, Flowers and Outdoor Recreation
Yachiho Highland Nature Garden
Yachiho Highland Nature Garden covers approximately 28 hectares and provides an easy way to experience the rich natural environment of the Yatsugatake foothills. Highland plants, streams, birds, and woodland scenery can be enjoyed along three walking courses.
The garden is particularly attractive for forest bathing and leisurely walks, with seasonal flowers and the sound of flowing water creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Yachiho Highland Flower and Tree Garden
Yachiho Highland Flower and Tree Garden is a pleasant walking area where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers and trees in the refreshing highland air. Its scenery changes throughout the year, making it a relaxing complement to the area’s larger forests and mountain trails.
Yachiho Lake
Yachiho Lake lies among the white birch forests at the heart of Yachiho Highland. The lake provides beautiful views toward Mount Asama and the Arafune Highland and is also known as a fishing destination where visitors can try catching trout and char.
The managed fishing area at Yachiho Lake is particularly popular with anglers, while the surrounding forest and mountain scenery make the lake enjoyable even for visitors who simply want to take a peaceful walk.
Mugikusa Pass and the Northern Yatsugatake Mountains
Mugikusa Pass lies along the scenic Venus Line and the Romantic Road, between Mount Maruyama and Mount Chausuyama. The high-elevation pass provides access to some of the most impressive natural landscapes of the northern Yatsugatake Mountains, including Lake Shirakoma and surrounding mountain trails.
Yachiho Highland Ski Resort
In winter, the highland becomes a destination for skiing and snowboarding. Yachiho Highland Ski Resort takes advantage of the area’s cold climate and reliable snow, offering courses suitable for a range of abilities. It can also be combined with sightseeing in the surrounding highland forests and lakes.
Forests, Waterfalls and Mountain Landscapes
Otome Falls
Otome Falls is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by the forests of Yachiho Highland. Clear mountain water flows through the woodland, creating a cool and refreshing landscape that is especially pleasant during the warmer months.
Komade Pond and Komade Pond Campground
Komade Pond is known for its beautiful, mirror-like surface surrounded by white birch forest. The quiet pond reflects the surrounding trees and sky, creating an especially photogenic landscape.
Nearby, Komade Pond Campground offers a variety of ways to stay close to nature, including campsites, bungalows, and cottages. Facilities such as rental equipment, an athletic play area, and a trampoline make the campground suitable for families as well as outdoor enthusiasts.
Mount Morai and Kobu-Taro
Mount Morai, rising 1,717 meters above sea level, is a prominent hiking destination in the Saku region. One of its memorable natural features is the enormous Tochigi tree known as Kobu-Taro, believed to have lived for several centuries.
The mountain provides an opportunity to experience the deeper forests of Sakuho and the relationship between the area’s mountains and its traditional woodland culture.
Art, History and Local Culture
Okumura Togyu Memorial Museum
Okumura Togyu Memorial Museum introduces the world of Togyu Okumura, one of Japan’s leading modern Japanese-style painters. The museum houses 207 works and related materials, including sketches, preparatory drawings, and calligraphy.
Some of the works were created in the Saku region, providing an opportunity to see how the surrounding landscapes influenced the artist. The museum offers a quiet cultural experience alongside Sakuho’s outdoor attractions.
Kurosawa Sake Brewery Museum
Kurosawa Sake Brewery Museum presents the history of traditional sake brewing through dioramas recreating an old brewery, brewing tools, sake vessels, and traditional household objects.
Visitors can also purchase local sake and enjoy tastings, while the adjoining café provides coffee and light refreshments. It is an appealing stop for travelers interested in Japanese food culture and traditional craftsmanship.
Historic Stones and Cultural Sites
Sakuho is home to a number of sites that hint at the area’s ancient history. The Kitazawa Oishi Stone Pillar and Usuishi are striking megalithic sites that evoke the mysterious stone culture of ancient Japan.
The town also preserves traditional cultural landscapes and places of worship, allowing visitors to discover a side of Sakuho beyond its mountains and forests.
Outdoor Activities and Scenic Recreation
Saku Resort Golf Club
Saku Resort Golf Club makes use of the area’s highland environment to offer golf surrounded by mountain scenery. The cool air and changing seasonal landscapes create a distinctive setting for a round of golf.
Genki-ga-Deru Park
Genki-ga-Deru Park is a family-friendly community park where children and adults can enjoy open spaces and recreational facilities in a natural setting. It provides an easygoing place to spend time outdoors between sightseeing stops.
Festivals and Local Events
Koyanocho Gion Festival
The Koyanocho Gion Festival, held on the fourth Friday and Saturday of July, is a traditional local celebration featuring floats, dancing, and community festivities. The streets take on a lively atmosphere as residents come together to preserve the area’s cultural traditions.
Sakusaku Festival
The Sakusaku Festival, held on the fourth Saturday of July, brings together local food, music performances, and community entertainment. It is an opportunity to experience the friendly atmosphere of Sakuho and discover regional flavors.
Agriculture, Forestry and Local Specialties
Highland Agriculture
Sakuho’s cool climate and high-elevation farmland support a wide range of agricultural products. Flowers such as chrysanthemums, carnations, alstroemerias, and roses are cultivated in the highland areas, while vegetables including Chinese cabbage, lettuce, and tomatoes are important local crops.
The region also produces fruit such as prunes and apples. In the surrounding forests, larch is an important timber species, while the locally quarried teppei stone is another traditional resource of the area.
These industries remain an important part of local life while also providing visitors with opportunities to discover and purchase products unique to Sakuho.
A Mountain Town for Every Season
Sakuho changes dramatically throughout the year. Spring brings fresh greenery and wildflowers to the forests. Summer is especially refreshing in the highlands, when the white birch forests, mountain streams, and lakes offer relief from the heat of the cities.
Autumn transforms the forests into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, while winter covers Yachiho Highland in snow and opens the season for skiing and other winter activities.
For travelers who enjoy hiking, photography, camping, fishing, art, local food, or simply spending time in a quiet natural environment, Sakuho offers many ways to experience the Japanese mountains.
Discover the Quiet Beauty of Sakuho
Sakuho Town is a place where mountains, forests, lakes, rivers, and local culture come together. From the mysterious waters of Lake Shirakoma and the moss-covered primeval forest to the bright white birch landscape of Yachiho Highland, the town offers some of the most distinctive scenery in eastern Nagano.
At the same time, its attractions extend beyond nature. Museums, historic sites, traditional festivals, sake culture, agriculture, and outdoor recreation reveal the character of a community shaped by its mountain environment.
Whether you come for a peaceful forest walk, a highland adventure, a family camping trip, winter sports, or a deeper encounter with local Japanese culture, Sakuho is a destination where the beauty of the mountains can be experienced at a relaxed pace.