Yokoteyama Panorama Course

An 11-minute ski lift from the Nozoki bus stop delivers hikers to the start of this 1.5-kilometer trail at 2,307 meters, the highest point in Japan reachable by lift. The route crosses a gentle 307-meter elevation change before descending on a second lift to the Shibutoge bus stop, taking about an hour in total. From the summit, views take in the Northern Japan Alps and the five major peaks of northern Nagano, known collectively as the Hokushin-Gogaku. Mt. Fuji is visible on clear days from nearly 150 kilometers away. A small cafe at the summit serves freshly baked crumpets and coffee, a welcome stop mid-hike.