Metasequoia Alley (Shiga Prefecture) Complete Guide | Four Seasons Spectacular Views, Access, Photography Spot Information
The Metasequoia Alley located in Makino Town, Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture is a representative scenic spot in Japan, featuring approximately 500 metasequoias lined neatly over about 2.4 km. This tree-lined avenue, selected as part of the New Japan Street Trees Hundred Scenic Spots, changes its appearance with each season, continuing to captivate visitors. This article provides comprehensive information about the attractions of Metasequoia Alley, access methods, best seasons, photography tips, and nearby tourist information that you should know before visiting the site.
What is Metasequoia Alley? Basic Information and History
Overview of Metasequoia Alley
Metasequoia Alley is a tree-lined avenue extending along Shiga Prefecture’s Koaraji Makino Sawa Line (prefectural route) in Makino Town, Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture. Approximately 500 metasequoias are planted at equal intervals on both sides of a 2.4 km road that continues from Makino Pickland to Makino Kogen (Makino Plateau). The magnificent mountains of the Nozaka mountain range stretch across the distant view, forming an open-air landscape characteristic of a highland area.
Metasequoia is a deciduous tree of the Cupressaceae family native to China, with the Japanese name “Akebono Sugi” (dawn cedar). Because it was once only visible as a fossil, it is also called a “living fossil.” It was named “Meta (modified) Sequoia” because its appearance resembles the sequoia, which can reach maximum tree heights of 115 meters.
History of the Alley’s Creation
This beautiful tree-lined avenue was first planted in 1981 (Showa 56) as part of the development project for the agricultural learning facility “Makino Land Learning from Soil,” initiated by the Makino Town Fruit Growers Association. Although the project initially aimed at agricultural education and regional revitalization, as the trees grew over time, their beautiful landscape began to attract attention.
Today, it has been selected as part of the “New Japan Street Trees Hundred Scenic Spots” and has become a representative tourist spot in Shiga Prefecture, attracting numerous visitors from both Japan and abroad annually. As it is also an important local living area road, efforts are being made centered on the “Association to Protect and Nurture Makino’s Metasequoia Alley” to achieve both the preservation of the alley and appropriate tourism use.
Four Seasons of Metasequoia Alley | Respective Charms and Best Viewing Times
The greatest charm of Metasequoia Alley is that it displays a different appearance with each season. No matter which season you visit, you can encounter the spectacular views unique to that time of year.
Spring (March to May): Season of Budding and Fresh Green
From late March to April, metasequoias awakening from winter sleep begin to sprout pale green buds. Soft young leaves gradually cover the branches, and from late April through May, fresh greenery reaches its most beautiful period.
The spring alley is enveloped in transparent, bright green, and combined with the clean highland air, offers a refreshing scenery. This period has relatively few tourists, allowing for leisurely walks. The Nozaka mountain range may still have remaining snow, making it possible to photograph beautiful contrasts between fresh greenery and snowy mountains.
Best viewing time for spring: Late April to mid-May
Summer (June to August): Dense Deep Green Shade
After June, fresh green transforms into deep green, and densely dark leaves cover the entire alley. The summer Metasequoia Alley becomes a thick green tunnel, with shade providing pleasant coolness.
The contrast between the blue summer sky and deep green creates a sense of nature’s powerful life force. In early morning and evening, soft light passes through the trees, creating a fantastical atmosphere. Summer has strong sunlight, so attention to light angles is necessary during photography, but it’s also a season where striking photos with distinct shadows and highlights can be captured.
Best viewing time for summer: June to August
Fall (Mid-November to Early December): Brilliant Autumn Colors
The most popular season attracting many tourists is the fall autumn foliage period. From mid to late November, metasequoia leaves beautifully change color from yellow to orange and then to reddish-brown.
The autumn foliage tunnel extending over 2.4 km is nothing short of spectacular. On clear days, the contrast between blue sky and autumn leaves is wonderful, while on cloudy days, the subdued color tones create a fantastical atmosphere. On days when morning mist appears, the mist-wrapped alley creates a mystical scene.
During peak foliage season, many tourists concentrate in the area, so visiting early morning or on weekdays is recommended. Additionally, since the progression of autumn foliage varies year by year depending on temperature and weather, it is recommended to check current color condition information before visiting.
Best viewing time for autumn foliage: Mid-November to early December
Winter (December to February): Snow-Covered Fantasy World
From December to February, Makino Town, Takashima City may experience snowfall. The snow-covered Metasequoia Alley creates a monochrome world resembling an ink painting.
The silhouette of branches covered with snow creates a delicate and beautiful image. Especially on clear days right after snowfall, the contrast between blue sky and white silvery alley creates spectacular scenery. With few tourists during winter, the tree-lined avenue is enveloped in silence, allowing visitors to enjoy photography and walks in a fantastical atmosphere.
However, since winter conditions can bring frozen roads and snow accumulation, sufficient care is needed when visiting. Do not forget to equip your vehicle with studless tires and prepare winter gear.
Best viewing time for winter: January to February (when snow is present)
Access Methods | How to Get There by Car, Train, and Bus
Access by Car
From the Kansai region:
- Approximately 90 minutes from “Kyoto Higashi IC” on the Meishin Expressway
- Head north on National Route 161 via the Lake Western Road
- Proceed to “Makino” direction and transfer from Prefectural Route 287 to Prefectural Route Koaraji Makino Sawa Line
From the Hokuriku region:
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Komatsu Honshi IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway
- Via National Routes 8 and 161
Car Navigation Settings:
- Setting the destination to “Makino Pickland” (835-1 Terakubo, Makino Town, Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture) is convenient
- Parking: Makino Pickland Parking Area (Free, capacity approximately 230 vehicles)
Access by Train and Bus
Nearest Station: JR Lake Western Line “Makino Station”
- Approximately 50 minutes from Kyoto Station (using rapid trains)
- Approximately 90 minutes from Osaka Station (using rapid trains, transfer at Kyoto Station)
From Makino Station to Metasequoia Alley:
- Community Bus “Makino Kogen Line”
- Board from the west exit of Makino Station
- Get off at “Makino Pickland” (approximately 6 minutes)
- Since the frequency of service is limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance
- Rental Bicycle
- Rental bicycles are available at the Makino Station Tourist Information Office
- Approximately 3 km from the station to the alley (approximately 15 minutes by bicycle)
- Enjoy the fresh breeze and scenery along Lake Biwa while cycling
- Taxi
- Approximately 5 minutes from Makino Station by taxi
- Fare is approximately 1,000 yen
Parking and Traffic Control Information
Metasequoia Alley is an important local living road. Please note the following:
- Street parking is absolutely prohibited: As it obstructs traffic, always use the designated parking area
- Makino Pickland Parking Area: Free, capacity approximately 230 vehicles
- Congestion during autumn foliage season: Parking may be full on weekends in November. Early morning visits are recommended
- Winter precautions: Studless tires are essential in snowy conditions
Photography Spots and Photogenic Photography Techniques
Recommended Photography Points
1. Makino Pickland Area (North Entrance)
This area serves as the starting point of the alley, where the entire tree-lined avenue stretching straight ahead can be captured—a classic spot. With the Nozaka mountain range as backdrop, you can photograph with a sense of perspective. Especially in the morning, the sun provides front lighting, creating bright and vivid photographs.
2. Central Section of the Alley
This is the area where metasequoias most strongly create a green tunnel effect, with trees overhanging from both sides. Symmetrical compositions using the road center line and compositions emphasizing depth are popular.
3. South Area (Makino Plateau Side)
Photography from the opposite direction of the north side is possible, with different light angles creating impressive photographs depending on the time of day. Silhouette photography using backlighting is also enjoyable in the evening.
Season-Specific Photography Tips
Spring and Summer (Fresh Green and Deep Green):
- Capture the transparency of green under soft morning light
- Use a polarizing filter to suppress leaf reflections and make colors more vivid
- Photographing against blue sky creates a refreshing impression
Fall (Autumn Foliage):
- On cloudy days, colors appear more subdued, creating a settled atmosphere
- Clear weather brings out the contrast with blue sky
- Mornings with mist provide a chance for fantastical photographs
- Fallen leaves on the road are attractive subjects
Winter (Snow Landscape):
- The best is after freshly fallen snow on clear days
- Set exposure compensation to positive to express the whiteness of snow
- Simple compositions that make use of the monochrome world are effective
Photography Precautions
- Never dash onto the road: This is a living road where vehicles pass through. Do not dash into the road while focusing on photography
- Consideration when using tripods: Install them in positions that do not obstruct pedestrians or vehicle traffic
- Drone photography: Comply with local rules and aviation laws, and obtain necessary permissions
- Early morning photography benefits: Few people are present, and soft light enables photography. Especially during autumn foliage season, early morning is recommended
Nearby Tourist Spots and Recommended Courses
Makino Pickland
An agricultural park located at the starting point of Metasequoia Alley. You can experience fruit picking with different fruits available each season—strawberries in spring, blueberries in summer, grapes, chestnuts, and sweet potatoes in fall. The park features a direct sales shop for local agricultural products and a restaurant, where you can taste dishes using fresh Takashima City ingredients. It’s an ideal spot to visit before or after a Metasequoia Alley walk.
Address: 835-1 Terakubo, Makino Town, Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture
Business Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (varies by season)
Phone: 0740-27-1811
Makino Kogen (Makino Plateau)
A highland resort that extends beyond Metasequoia Alley. It operates as a ski area in winter and as a campground and ground golf course during the green season. Its high altitude means it remains cool even in summer, which is appealing.
From the plateau, you can see Lake Biwa, and on clear days, mountains on the opposite shore are visible. Forest trails are maintained and perfect for hiking while enjoying forest bathing.
Lake Biwa Surrounding Area
Makino Town is located on the northwestern shore of Lake Biwa with good access to the lakeside. Makino Sunny Beach is known for its transparent water quality and attracts many swimmers in summer. Additionally, the cycling road along the shore is a popular course where you can enjoy riding while taking in the magnificent views of Lake Biwa.
Recommended Tourist Courses
Half-Day Course:
- Arrive at JR Makino Station (9:00 AM)
- Travel to Metasequoia Alley by rental bicycle (9:15 AM to 10:30 AM)
- Experience fruit picking at Makino Pickland (10:30 AM to 12:00 PM)
- Lunch (12:00 PM to 1:00 PM)
- Lake Biwa cycling (1:00 PM to 2:30 PM)
- Depart from Makino Station (3:00 PM)
Full-Day Course:
- Early morning photography at Metasequoia Alley (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM)
- Breakfast and shopping at Makino Pickland (9:00 AM to 10:30 AM)
- Hiking at Makino Plateau (10:30 AM to 1:00 PM)
- Lunch at plateau restaurant (1:00 PM to 2:00 PM)
- Lake Biwa scenic drive and sightseeing (2:00 PM to 4:00 PM)
- Visit nearby spots like Shirahige Shrine (4:00 PM to 5:30 PM)
Pre-Visit Local Information Worth Knowing
Clothing and Items to Bring
Spring and Fall:
- Bring layers as mornings and evenings can be cool
- Comfortable sneakers or trekking shoes
- Sunscreen and hat
Summer:
- Breathable clothing
- Parasol, hat, sunglasses
- Insect repellent spray
- Plenty of drinking water
Winter:
- Warm clothing, gloves, scarf
- Non-slip shoes (waterproof is preferable)
- Hand warmers and other heating aids
Best Times to Visit
Early Morning (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM):
- Few people present, allowing leisurely photography
- Morning mist may appear, creating a fantastical atmosphere
- Soft morning sun is beautiful
Morning (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM):
- Bright front-lit photography possible
- Moderate number of people with lively atmosphere
Evening (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM):
- Evening sun illuminates the alley with a warm atmosphere
- Silhouette photography using backlighting is possible
- The magical hour after sunset is also charming
Crowding Conditions and How to Avoid Them
Crowded seasons and times:
- Autumn foliage season (mid to late November) on weekends and holidays
- 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM time slots
- Golden Week period
Tips for avoiding crowds:
- Weekday visits
- Very early morning (before 7:00 AM) or evening (after 4:00 PM)
- Before and after peak foliage season
- Winter or rainy seasons have fewer tourists
Consideration for the Community and Proper Etiquette
Metasequoia Alley is, before being a tourist destination, an important local living road. Centered on the “Association to Protect and Nurture Makino’s Metasequoia Alley,” efforts are being made to achieve both the preservation of beautiful scenery and appropriate tourism. As a visitor, please observe the following etiquette:
- Never park on the road: Always use designated parking areas
- Take trash with you: To protect the natural environment
- Do not trespass on private property: Surrounding land includes farmland and private property
- Avoid loud noise: Residential areas are nearby
- Obey traffic rules: Exercise full care when crossing roads
- Do not damage trees: Do not break branches or damage bark
About the Metasequoia Tree
History of “Living Fossil”
Metasequoia was widely distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere approximately one million years ago but was thought to have become extinct after the ice age. In 1939, Japanese paleontologist Shigeru Miki studied fossils and named it as a new genus and species, “Metasequoia.”
Subsequently, in 1945, living specimens were discovered in Sichuan Province, China, drawing worldwide attention as a “living fossil.” Seeds were sent to Japan via the United States in 1949, and the tree began to be planted in various locations.
Characteristics of Metasequoia
- Scientific Name: Metasequoia glyptostroboides
- Family: Cupressaceae (Some classifications place it in Taxodiaceae)
- Japanese Name: Akebono Sugi (Dawn Cedar)
- Tree Height: 30 to 40 meters (Over 50 meters in native habitats)
- Leaves: Compound pinnate leaves, deciduous
- Growth Rate: Fast-growing, often extending over 1 meter per year
- Lifespan: Estimated to exceed hundreds of years
Metasequoia grows quickly with beautiful tree form and is planted as a street tree and park tree throughout Japan. However, the Makino Metasequoia Alley is rare in forming such a large-scale, unified landscape, which is one reason for its high evaluation.
How to Check Recent Information
To enjoy Metasequoia Alley to the fullest, it is important to check current conditions before your visit.
Official Information Sources
Takashima City Official Website:
The Takashima City official website regularly updates information about Metasequoia Alley. Current site information including autumn foliage color conditions and snowfall information is posted with photographs.
Lake Biwa Takashima Tourism Guide:
Operated by the Takashima City Tourism Association, this site contains abundant event information and details about nearby tourist spots.
Association to Protect and Nurture Makino’s Metasequoia Alley:
The official homepage disseminates information about alley preservation activities and requests to visitors.
Information Gathering via SNS
Searching for hashtags such as “#MetasequoiaAlley” or “#Makino” on Twitter and Instagram allows you to check photographs and information posted in real-time by visitors. Especially during autumn foliage season, it is convenient for grasping current color conditions.
Accommodations and Food Information
Nearby Accommodations
Makino Kogen Hot Spring Sarasa:
About 5 minutes by car from Metasequoia Alley. This natural hot spring facility offers day-use bathing and accommodation options. Dishes using local ingredients are highly regarded.
Lake Biwa Waterfront Hotels and Inns:
Scattered along the waterfront are resort hotels and hot spring inns with views of Lake Biwa. You can enjoy spectacular lake views and hot springs while relaxing.
Makino Kogen Campground:
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Makino Plateau campground is recommended. With high altitude, it remains cool even in summer, and you can enjoy a starry night sky.
Local Cuisine
Omi Beef:
A branded beef that Shiga Prefecture takes pride in. Restaurants in the Makino area offer steaks, grilled meat, and sukiyaki made with Omi beef.
Sweetfish Dishes:
Wild sweetfish from Lake Biwa and freshwater fish from clear streams are famous. Various cooking methods including salt-grilled and condiment-braised preparations are available.
Lake Fish Dishes:
Dishes using fish unique to Lake Biwa such as Biwa char and Honmoroko. You can taste flavors unique to the local area.
Gelato at Makino Pickland:
Gelato made with fresh local fruits is popular. You can enjoy seasonal flavors that change throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the best time to view Metasequoia Alley?
A: The most popular time is the autumn foliage season from mid-November to early December, but each season offers different beauty. Fresh greenery is best from late April to mid-May, deep green from June to August, and snowy landscapes from January to February.
Q: Is there an entrance fee or toll?
A: Since Metasequoia Alley is a public road, there are no entrance fees or tolls. The parking area is also free to use.
Q: Can wheelchair users and strollers pass through?
A: The alley is paved, so wheelchairs and strollers can pass through. However, since vehicles use this road, full care is necessary.
Q: Can I bring pets?
A: Pets are allowed, but always keep them on a leash and observe proper etiquette. Always clean up after them.
Q: Are there restrooms nearby?
A: Public restrooms are available at Makino Pickland. Since there are no restrooms along the alley, it is recommended to use them beforehand.
Q: Can I enjoy it on rainy days?
A: Rainy days offer their own unique atmosphere, and the somewhat wet alley is also charming. However, care is necessary as the ground becomes slippery.
Q: How long does it take to walk the alley round-trip?
A: At approximately 2.4 km per direction, a round-trip takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. If walking slowly while photographing, plan for about 2 hours.
Conclusion: A Spectacular Spot Enjoyable Throughout the Four Seasons
Metasequoia Alley in Makino Town, Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture, is a fascinating tourist spot where approximately 500 trees create a 2.4 km spectacular view that displays different expressions with each passing season. The freshness of new green, the strength of deep green, the brilliance of autumn foliage, and the serenity of snowy landscapes—no matter which season you visit, you will encounter beauty unique to that time of year.
Selected as part of the “New Japan Street Trees Hundred Scenic Spots,” this tree-lined avenue attracts numerous visitors from both Japan and abroad, while simultaneously serving as an important local living road. To preserve this beautiful landscape for the future, it is important to enjoy it while following proper etiquette.
Access is relatively good, and it is possible to visit from Kyoto or Osaka as a day trip. Nearby are charming tourist spots such as Makino Pickland, Makino Plateau, and Lake Biwa waterfront.
By confirming current conditions in advance and visiting at the best time, you can have a more fulfilling experience. With your camera in hand, appreciate the passage of the seasons while thoroughly enjoying this spectacular view.
