Kaya no Taira Highland (Nagano Prefecture) Complete Guide | Paradise of Japan’s Most Beautiful Beech Primeval Forest and Alpine Plants
Kaya no Taira Highland, located in Kijimadaira Village, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture, is a highland area at an elevation of 1,400-1,700 meters, known as “Japan’s most beautiful beech forest.” This region, spread north of Shiga Kogen in the heart of the Joshin’etsu Kogen National Park, is a hidden gem characterized by primeval beech forests with trees over 300 years old, wetlands blooming with diverse alpine plants, and activities that leverage the rich natural environment.
This article comprehensively covers everything you need to know before visiting Kaya no Taira Highland, including highlights, trekking courses, camping sites and accommodations, access methods, and the best season to visit.
What is Kaya no Taira Highland? Basic Information and Characteristics
Kaya no Taira Highland is a highland area spreading within national forest located in the Joshin’etsu Kogen National Park, in the eastern part of Kijimadaira Village, Nagano Prefecture. Approximately 14.5 million square meters are designated as a natural recreation forest and it is also certified as a forest therapy base.
Geographic Features
- Elevation: 1,350-1,750 m
- Location: Kijimadaira National Forest, Kijimayama, Kamikijima, Shimotakai District, Kijimadaira Village, Nagano Prefecture
- Position: North of Shiga Kogen, near the entrance to Akiyama Gorge
- Area: Approximately 14.5 million square meters of natural recreation forest
Natural Environment Characteristics
The greatest characteristic of Kaya no Taira Highland lies in its rich natural environment. This highland, spreading across mountains at elevations of 1,400-1,700 meters, receives nearly 3 meters of snow in winter, and this harsh environment nurtures a unique ecosystem.
This is a region with abundant vegetation where Japanese beech, white birch, and Dake birch grow densely. The primeval beech forest in particular, with towering ancient trees over 300 years old, is highly praised as “Japan’s most beautiful beech forest.” This forest is loved by many tourists and trekking enthusiasts as a forest therapy base that heals the hearts and bodies of visitors.
Highlights of Kaya no Taira Highland
Primeval Beech Forest with Trees Over 300 Years Old
The signature landscape of Kaya no Taira Highland is the primeval beech forest with trees over 300 years old. This forest, spreading at high elevations of 1,400-1,700 meters, features gigantic beech trees with trunk circumferences reaching several meters, presenting different expressions with each season.
In spring, fresh new leaves shine in vivid yellow-green; in summer, deep green shade provides coolness; and in autumn, the golden foliage creates spectacular beauty. In the beech forest’s understory, unique vegetation has developed, and trekking while enjoying forest bathing is forest therapy itself.
Kita Dobu Wetland and Alpine Plant Communities
Kita Dobu Wetland is a representative wetland of Kaya no Taira Highland, and a valuable area where diverse alpine plants grow. From late June to late August, different alpine plants such as Asian skunk cabbage, Japanese false hellebore, and Japanese cotton grass bloom seasonally.
Wooden walkways have been constructed around the wetland, allowing close observation of alpine plants while walking on the boardwalk. The profusion of Asian skunk cabbage in early summer is particularly spectacular, and because of its high elevation, it can be enjoyed longer than in lowland areas.
Scenic Beauty Through the Four Seasons
Spring (June-Early July)
Kaya no Taira Highland is closed in winter and opens from June. Right after snowmelt, the highland spreads with a fantastic landscape woven by lingering snow, fresh beech foliage, and Asian skunk cabbage in the wetland. Because of its high elevation, this is a precious time when the arrival of spring can be felt even in June.
Summer (Mid-July-August)
Deep green primeval beech forest and various alpine plants blooming in the wetland reach their peak season. Because it is located at an elevation above 1,400 meters, it remains cool even in midsummer and is ideal as a summer retreat. Average temperatures are more than 10 degrees lower than in lowland areas, making for comfortable trekking.
Autumn (Late September-Mid-October)
The autumn foliage season is the most beautiful time of year at Kaya no Taira Highland. The golden beech, red Nana-kamaido, and yellow Dake birch create an embroidered landscape of a brocade, truly a spectacular sight. Early October in particular is peak foliage season, attracting many tourists.
Trekking Courses and Hiking
Primeval Beech Forest Trekking Course
The most popular course starting from Kaya no Taira Highland General Information Center. The course takes about 2-3 hours and features a relatively flat route that can be enjoyed even by beginners.
Course Features
- Close observation of ancient beech trees over 300 years old
- Designated as a forest therapy road offering healing trails
- Routes through Kita Dobu Wetland for alpine plant observation
- Constructed walkways make for easy walking
Takadai Mountain Trekking Course
For those seeking more serious mountain climbing, trekking to Takadai Mountain (elevation 1,747 m) is recommended. From Kaya no Taira Highland General Information Center, this one-way course takes about 2 hours, and the summit offers a panoramic view of the Shinshin Five Peaks and the mountains of Shiga Kogen.
Course Features
- Full-fledged climbing course with an elevation gain of about 400 meters
- 360-degree panoramic view from the summit
- Observation of vegetation changes from primeval beech forest to subalpine zone
- Intermediate level; climbing equipment required
Trekking Guide Service
Trekking guide services by local guides are provided at Kaya no Taira Highland. By walking with guides possessing specialist knowledge about the ecosystem of the beech forest, explanations of alpine plants, and support for safe mountain climbing, you can develop a deeper understanding of Kaya no Taira Highland’s nature.
Guide Service Inquiries
- Kaya no Taira Highland General Information Center
- Kijimadaira Village Tourism Promotion Bureau
- Prior reservation is recommended
Kaya no Taira Highland Campground
Located at an elevation of approximately 1,700 meters, Kaya no Taira Highland Campground is a nature-rich campground surrounded by primeval beech forest. It remains cool even in summer and offers ideal conditions for stargazing.
Campground Overview
Fee Structure
- 1 tent: 1,500 yen
- Fixed tent: 2,000 yen
- Auto camping (1 vehicle): 4,000-8,000 yen
- Motorcycle camping (1 bike): 2,000-4,000 yen
- Facility fee: 200 yen per person
Equipment and Services
- Cooking facilities, toilets fully equipped
- Staff stationed at management office (during operating season)
- Rental equipment available
- Firewood for sale
- Garbage disposal service
Campground Appeal
Because of its high elevation of 1,700 meters, even on summer nights there is a chill, allowing for comfortable camping. Surrounded by primeval beech forest, the environment is truly camping in the forest. Early morning forest bathing and the starry night sky are special experiences not available in lowland areas.
Online Reservation
Kaya no Taira Highland Campground has introduced an online reservation system. Especially on weekends during autumn foliage season, the area becomes crowded, making advance online reservation recommended. Reservations are available through the official website.
Lodging Facility: Kaya no Taira Highland Lodge
As an alternative to camping, Kaya no Taira Highland Lodge offers accommodation. This mountain lodge-style building is surrounded by beech forest and, while not a hot spring facility, offers comfortable lodging amenities.
Lodge Features
- Mountain lodge-style building with the warmth of wood
- Meal plans available
- Heating equipped (mornings and evenings get cold)
- Ideal base for trekking
- Nature observation programs for lodge guests
Reservations and Inquiries
Reservations for Kaya no Taira Highland Lodge are accepted by phone or online. The operating season is limited from June to October.
Access Methods
Access by Car
From Shinshu Nakano IC on the Joshin’etsu Expressway
- Travel time: Approximately 70 minutes
- Take National Route 292 toward Shiga Kogen
- Pass through Kijimadaira Village to reach Kaya no Taira Highland
- The final approximately 10 km is mountain road (some narrow sections)
Precautions
- Road is closed during winter (November-May)
- Mountain road requires careful driving
- Car navigation may provide inaccurate directions; prior map confirmation recommended
Access by Public Transportation
Kaya no Taira Highland is difficult to access by public transportation. Options include taking a taxi from the nearest Iiyama Station or Togari-Nozawa Onsen Station, or joining an organized tour bus.
Guided Taxi and Tour Bus
Companies such as Morimiya Transportation operate guided taxis and tour buses through Akiyama Gorge and Kaya no Taira Highland. Available by advance reservation with guided tours.
Operating Season and Best Season
Operating Period
Kaya no Taira Highland is closed during winter due to snow.
- Open Period: Early June to late October (varies depending on snow conditions)
- Campground Operation: Mid-June to mid-October
- Lodge Operation: Early June to late October
Best Season
Fresh Greenery and Alpine Plants (Late June-July)
A period when fresh leaves and Asian skunk cabbage communities are visible after snowmelt. With less crowding, you can enjoy a quiet highland.
Summer Retreat and Trekking (Late July-August)
Summer vacation season ideal for family camping and trekking. High elevation makes it cool and comfortable.
Autumn Foliage (Late September-Mid-October)
The most popular season. The golden foliage of beech trees is spectacular, with early October being peak season. Weekend visits are crowded, so visiting on weekdays or making early reservations is recommended.
Kaya no Taira Highland as a Forest Therapy Base
Kaya no Taira Highland is certified as a forest therapy base by the Forest Therapy Society. Forest therapy is health promotion activity utilizing the scientifically proven healing effects of forests.
Effects of Forest Therapy
- Stress reduction
- Improved immune function
- Lowered blood pressure
- Relaxation effects
- Mental and physical refreshment
Walking on forest trails surrounded by primeval beech forest allows you to experience these effects. In particular, phytoncide (forest fragrance components) released by ancient beech trees over 300 years old provides deep relaxation effects.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Akiyama Gorge
Approximately 30 minutes by car from Kaya no Taira Highland, Akiyama Gorge is a secret area with mountain villages with Heike clan legends. You can experience hot springs and traditional ways of life.
Shiga Kogen
Shiga Kogen, adjacent to the south, is a popular area for winter skiing and summer highland resort. Multiple lakes and mountain landscapes can be enjoyed.
Kijimadaira Village
Kijimadaira Village, serving as the gateway to Kaya no Taira Highland, is an agricultural village where fresh highland vegetables and rice are specialties. Hot spring facilities are also available, ideal for bathing after trekking.
Precautions and Items to Bring When Visiting
Clothing and Equipment
- Because of high elevation, long sleeves and warm clothing are necessary even in summer
- Trekking shoes (mountain boots recommended)
- Rain gear (weather changes suddenly)
- Hat, sunscreen
- Insect repellent spray (summer)
- Drinking water and snacks
Safety Precautions
- Mobile phone signals are unavailable in some areas
- Bears inhabit the region. Equipment that makes noise such as bells is recommended
- Watch for sudden weather changes and avoid reckless activities
- Gather information at Kaya no Taira Highland General Information Center before trekking
Manners and Rules
- Always take garbage with you
- Plant collection is prohibited
- Avoid entering areas outside designated courses
- Feeding wildlife is strictly prohibited
- Campfires only in designated areas
How to Enjoy Kaya no Taira Highland: Seasonal Guide
June: Snowmelt and Arrival of Spring
- Asian skunk cabbage communities (Kita Dobu Wetland)
- Contrast of lingering snow and fresh beech foliage
- Leisurely time on quiet highlands
July-August: Summer Highland Resort
- Summer retreat camping
- Alpine plant observation (Japanese false hellebore, Japanese cotton grass, etc.)
- Early morning forest bathing trekking
- Nighttime stargazing
September-October: Spectacular Autumn Foliage
- Golden autumn foliage of primeval beech forest
- Autumn foliage trekking
- Autumn alpine plants (Japanese gentian, etc.)
- Autumn foliage photography
Conclusion: Special Natural Experiences at Kaya no Taira Highland
Kaya no Taira Highland is a highland resort characterized by primeval beech forest over 300 years old called “Japan’s most beautiful beech forest,” Kita Dobu Wetland where diverse alpine plants bloom abundantly, and crisp air at elevations of 1,400-1,700 meters.
This remote area, open only during the limited period from June to October, allows you to experience the vibrant seasonal changes of spring through autumn compressed into a short time. Forest therapy base certified healing forest offers a precious opportunity to refresh mind and body, providing valuable time that makes you forget your daily routine.
With accommodations such as camping sites and lodges fully equipped, the area can be enjoyed as either a day trip or overnight stay. The appeal is heightened by various courses suited to all trekking levels, from beginners to advanced hikers.
At Kaya no Taira Highland in Kijimadaira Village, Nagano Prefecture, please enjoy this special natural experience in a primeval beech forest. Before visiting, confirm the latest information at Kaya no Taira Highland General Information Center or Kijimadaira Village Tourism Promotion Bureau and plan a safe and fulfilling highland stay.
