Complete Guide to Nenoue Plateau (Gifu Prefecture) | Explaining the Charm of All Four Seasons, Access, and Ways to Enjoy
Nenoue Plateau (ねのうえこうげん), located on the border between Nakatsugawa City and Ena City in Gifu Prefecture, is a highland area at an elevation of approximately 930 meters that captivates visitors with its beautiful natural scenery throughout the seasons and abundant activities. This plateau, also called the “Karuizawa of Tokai,” is designated as a prefectural nature park and features two lakes—Nenoue Lake and Hoko Lake—in a nature-rich area.
This article provides detailed explanations of essential information to know before visiting, from basic information about Nenoue Plateau to seasonal highlights, access methods, and recommended ways to enjoy it.
Basic Information About Nenoue Plateau
Geography and Overview
Nenoue Plateau is a highland area spreading across the city border between Nakatsugawa City and Ena City in Gifu Prefecture. Located at an elevation of approximately 930 meters (some sources cite approximately 1,000 meters), it is a nature-rich area centered around Hoko Mountain (elevation 930 meters).
There are three lakes within the plateau constructed for irrigation purposes, and among them, Nenoue Lake (ねのうえこ) and Hoko Lake (ほこのこ) are the main tourist attractions. These two lakes are connected by a waterway, and walking paths are maintained around them, providing an environment where visitors can take walks in the lakeside forest.
Value as a Prefectural Nature Park
Nenoue Plateau is designated as a prefectural nature park, with its natural environment being protected. Despite being located at a high elevation of approximately 1,000 meters, it is easily accessible and possesses abundant vegetation and beautiful scenery, positioning it as one of the representative nature parks of Gifu Prefecture.
It has been selected as one of the Hida-Mino Thirty-Three Autumn Foliage Spots, and particularly during the autumn foliage season, many tourists visit.
Access Information
By Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Nakatsugawa IC” on the Chuo Expressway
- Approximately 25 minutes from “Ena IC” on the Chuo Expressway
- Accessible via National Route 19 and prefectural roads
By Public Transportation
- From “Nakatsugawa Station” or “Ena Station” on the JR Chuo Main Line, approximately 30 minutes by taxi
- Public bus service is limited, so access by car is recommended
Parking
- Free parking available around Nenoue Lake and Hoko Lake
- During peak seasons, parking may be congested, so early arrival is recommended
Business Hours and Admission Fees
Since Nenoue Plateau itself is a nature park, it is generally open 24 hours and admission is free. However, accommodations and some activity facilities have their own business hours and fees.
Contact Information
- Nenoue Plateau Official Website: https://www.nenoue969.com/
- Nakatsugawa City Tourism Association: For telephone numbers and details, please check the official website
- Ena City Tourism Association: For telephone numbers and details, please check the official website
The Two Lakes of Nenoue Plateau
The Charm of Nenoue Lake
Nenoue Lake is one of the representative lakes of Nenoue Plateau. Walking paths are maintained around the lakeside, allowing visitors to enjoy the nature of each season while making a complete loop around the lake.
The landscape of surrounding mountains and forests reflected on the lake’s surface presents different expressions depending on the season of visit. Particularly during early morning hours, the mirror-like lake surface reflecting the scenery is fantastical.
Rest areas and benches are installed around the lake, creating an ideal environment for leisurely time.
Enjoying Hoko Lake
Hoko Lake is located downstream from Nenoue Lake and offers activities such as boating and fishing. It has higher recreational value than Nenoue Lake and is popular among families and groups.
Activities Available at Hoko Lake
- Boating (during season)
- Smelt fishing (winter)
- Lakeside walks
- Forest bathing
A rich forest surrounds the lake, and walks enjoying forest bathing are popular. Shiroyashio Gorge, which continues downstream from Hoko Lake, is known for its mystical landscape of massive boulders piled on top of each other.
Nenoue Plateau Through the Four Seasons
Spring: Famous for Azalea Blossoms
Spring at Nenoue Plateau arrives with the blooming of azaleas. Particularly from late May to early June, the entire plateau turns deep crimson with azaleas, offering a stunning landscape.
Spring Highlights
- Azalea clusters in full bloom (late May to early June)
- Forest walks in fresh greenery
- Spring bird watching
- The refreshing air and mild climate of the plateau
The azaleas bloom so abundantly that they turn the plateau deep crimson, and the view from the lakeside walking path is exceptional. During this period, many photography enthusiasts also visit to capture the beautiful scenery.
Summer: Appeal as a Summer Resort
At an elevation of approximately 930 meters, Nenoue Plateau offers an ideal summer resort environment. With temperatures lower than the plains and cool breezes passing through the plateau, it is a place where you can comfortably spend a hot summer.
Summer Activities
- Cool walks around the lakeside
- Forest bathing and refreshment
- Boating (at Hoko Lake)
- Camping and outdoor experiences
- Hiking taking advantage of the plateau’s cool climate
During summer, families and campers favor the area, and it bustles with people spending time leisurely in nature. Picnicking by the lake or walks in the forest provide a luxurious time that lets you forget the hustle and bustle of the city.
Autumn: Spectacular Autumn Foliage Scenery
Nenoue Plateau has been selected as one of the Hida-Mino Thirty-Three Autumn Foliage Spots, and during the autumn foliage season in particular, many tourists visit.
Autumn Foliage Peak and Types
- Peak foliage period: Mid-October to early November
- Main foliage tree species: Maple, Dodan Azalea, Maruba Noki, Japanese Maple, etc.
- Foliage areas: Nenoue Lake surroundings, Hoko Lake surroundings, along walking paths
The landscape of autumn foliage reflected on the lake is particularly beautiful, and while walking the lakeside path, you can enjoy trees turning red and yellow up close. The vibrant foliage characteristic of a plateau at approximately 1,000 meters elevation continues to captivate visitors.
Autumn Foliage Photography Points
- Foliage reflected on the lake’s surface in early morning (reflection photography)
- Overall forest foliage from the walking path
- Peaceful landscape viewed from a lakeside bench
Winter: Silence, Snowy Landscapes, and Smelt Fishing
Winter at Nenoue Plateau transforms into a silent, snow-covered world. Fewer people visit, but there are unique winter activities to enjoy.
Winter Appeal
- Quiet walks in snowy scenery
- Smelt fishing (at Hoko Lake)
- Winter bird watching
- Refreshment in clear air and silence
Smelt fishing is a popular winter activity, with fishing available on the ice or from the shore. Cooking and tasting freshly caught smelt on the spot is a popular winter experience.
Activities and Experiences at Nenoue Plateau
Walking and Hiking
Nenoue Plateau has well-maintained walking paths that beginners can enjoy. You can choose from flat lakeside paths to slightly undulating forest courses depending on your fitness level and goals.
Recommended Walking Courses
- Nenoue Lake Loop Course: Approximately 1 hour, enjoying lakeside scenery
- Hoko Lake Surrounding Course: Approximately 40 minutes, touring the boat rental area and forest areas
- Shiroyashio Gorge Course: Approximately 1.5 hours, enjoying the gorge’s mystical landscape
The walking paths are well-maintained, so no special equipment is necessary, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Boating and Water Activities
During the season, you can enjoy boating at Hoko Lake. The plateau scenery viewed from the lake offers charm different from land-based views.
Boat Usage Information
- Operating period: Spring to autumn (details require inquiry)
- Charges: Vary depending on rental boat type
- Reservations: Reservations may be accepted during peak season
Fishing Experience
Smelt fishing at Hoko Lake is a winter tradition. It is popular as a fishing experience enjoyable even for beginners, and tool rentals are available.
Fishing Information
- Main fish species: Smelt (winter)
- Season: November to March approximately
- Fishing permit: Required (available for purchase on-site)
- Rentals: Fishing equipment rentals available
Camping and Accommodation Facilities
There are camping grounds and accommodation facilities around Nenoue Plateau where you can spend time leisurely in nature.
Main Accommodation Facilities
- Enasan Lodge: Accommodation facility within the plateau
- Campgrounds: Tent camping and bungalow stays available
- Nearby private lodges and pensions
Staying overnight allows you to experience the quiet lakeside at dawn and the night sky—attractions not available on day trips.
The Mystical Landscape of Shiroyashio Gorge
Shiroyashio Gorge, which extends downstream from Hoko Lake, is a hidden gem of Nenoue Plateau. The landscape where massive boulders are piled together with streams flowing through them creates a mystical and unique atmosphere.
Gorge Highlights
- Moss-covered massive boulder groups
- Unique rock formations such as Nurikabe Rock and Hoko no Iwato
- Giant trees including Sawara and Tsuga
- Babbling streams and forest silence
The gorge interior is covered with trees, remaining cool even in summer, and provides a space full of negative ions. While walking paths are maintained, there are rocky areas, so caution is advised while walking.
Tourist Spots Around Nenoue Plateau
Recommended Spots in Nakatsugawa City
Within a 30-minute drive from Nenoue Plateau, tourist spots are scattered throughout Nakatsugawa City.
- Magome Station: A famous tourism destination as a post station on the Nakasendo Trail
- Nabiki Castle Ruins: A popular historic site known as the castle in the sky
- Tsutsuiki Gorge: A scenic spot with beautiful emerald-green streams
Recommended Spots in Ena City
- Iwamura Castle Town: The castle town of Iwamura Castle, one of Japan’s three great mountain castles
- Ena Gorge: A scenic area with a dam lake and fantastic rock formations
- Japan Taisho Village: A theme park recreating the atmosphere of the Taisho era
When visiting Nenoue Plateau, combining it with these nearby tourist spots allows you to plan a more fulfilling travel itinerary.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting Nenoue Plateau
Clothing and Items to Bring
- Clothing: Since the elevation is approximately 930 meters, temperatures are lower than in plains. Prepare outerwear appropriate to the season
- Footwear: While walking paths are maintained, comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes are recommended
- Items to Bring: Drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellent (summer), rain gear
Nature Conservation Etiquette
- Always take garbage with you
- Plant collection is prohibited
- Refrain from feeding wild animals
- Walk only on designated trails
- Do not light fires outside designated areas
Seasonal Precautions
Spring and Summer
- Do not forget insect repellent measures
- Drink water frequently for heat stroke prevention
Autumn
- The foliage season is crowded, so early arrival is recommended
- Prepare warm clothing as mornings and evenings are cold
Winter
- Be careful of snow and icy road surfaces
- Studless tires or chains may be necessary
- Take thorough cold-weather precautions
Event Information
Various events are held at Nenoue Plateau each season.
- Azalea Festival (spring): Events held during azalea bloom season
- Autumn Foliage Walking (autumn): Guided fall foliage walks
- Stargazing Events (year-round): Astronomical observation in the plateau’s clear air
Details and dates for events can be confirmed on the Nenoue Plateau official website and the tourism association websites of Nakatsugawa City and Ena City.
Conclusion: Fully Enjoy the Appeal of Nenoue Plateau
Nenoue Plateau, spanning Nakatsugawa City and Ena City in Gifu Prefecture at an elevation of approximately 930 meters, is a spot where you can enjoy beautiful nature of each season centered around two lakes—Nenoue Lake and Hoko Lake.
With spring azaleas, summer’s comfort as a resort, autumn foliage, and winter smelt fishing, each season offers different appeal, and there are new discoveries with every visit. This plateau, known as the “Karuizawa of Tokai,” is an ideal area for refreshing yourself away from the bustle of the city in nature.
Various activities are available—lakeside walks, boating, fishing experiences, and exploration of Shiroyashio Gorge—and you can spend fulfilling time whether visiting for the day or staying overnight.
The accessibility is also appealing, being approximately 30 minutes from Nakatsugawa IC or Ena IC, and combining it with nearby tourist spots for a travel plan is recommended.
Why not spend time at the nature-rich Nenoue Plateau, feeling the passage of seasons while refreshing both body and mind? In this place of nothingness, something is to be found—that is the greatest appeal of Nenoue Plateau.
