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妙高日帰りルート

Myoko Day Trip

5–6 hours 6 stops ~50 km round trip Spring / Summer / Autumn

Most visitors come to Myoko for skiing. But off the slopes, Myoko is volcanic ponds, waterfalls, highland soba, and some of the oldest onsen in Niigata. This route is a full day — mountains in the morning, hot water in the afternoon.

You'll need a car for this one. The stops are spread across the Myoko highlands, connected by winding mountain roads with views that make you pull over.

01

高田から妙高へ

Drive to Myoko (from Takada)

Head south on Route 18 toward the mountains. The landscape shifts fast — rice paddies give way to cedar forests and volcanic terrain. Myoko-san (2,454m) fills the windshield.

Local tip: Stop at the roadside michi-no-eki (rest stop) in Arai for local produce, fresh mochi, and mountain views.
25–30 min drive Open in Maps →
02

いもり池

Imorisike Pond

A mirror-still pond at the foot of Myoko-san. A flat boardwalk loops around it — easy walking, stunning reflections. In spring, mizubasho (skunk cabbage) flowers bloom white across the wetland.

Local tip: Go early morning for the best reflections. The visitor center has clean restrooms and a small exhibit on local wildlife.
30–45 min Open in Maps →
03

苗名滝

Naena Falls

A 55-meter waterfall known as "Earthquake Falls" for the rumble it makes. A 15-minute walk from the parking lot through forest leads to a suspension bridge with a direct view.

Local tip: Best in late spring (snowmelt) and autumn (foliage). Wear shoes with grip — the path can be slippery.
45–60 min (incl. walk) Open in Maps →
04

妙高そばランチ

Soba Lunch in Myoko

Mountain soba is the thing to eat here. Buckwheat grows in the highlands and the water is clean. Find a place in Suginosawa or Akakura — the simpler the shop, the better the noodles.

Local tip: Order "zaru soba" (cold soba on a bamboo tray) in summer, "kake soba" (hot broth) in cooler months. Add tempura if hungry.
30–45 min Open in Maps →
05

赤倉温泉

Akakura Onsen

Akakura has been an onsen town since 1816. Several day-use baths are available — some large and modern, others small and old-fashioned. The water is naturally heated by Myoko's volcanic activity.

Local tip: Bring your own towel or buy one at the entrance (¥200–300). Tattoos are generally accepted at smaller local baths. Check before entering larger facilities.
60–90 min Open in Maps →
06

夕景ドライブ

Sunset Drive Back

Head back toward Takada as the light turns golden. The drive down from the mountains offers wide views over the Kubiki Plain — rice fields stretching to the Sea of Japan.

Local tip: If the sky is clear, pull over at one of the viewpoints along Route 18. The sunset behind the Kubiki Plain is one of Niigata's quiet treasures.
25–30 min drive Open in Maps →

Practical Info

Before you go.

Getting There

Car recommended. 25 min from Takada to Myoko area. Rental cars available at Joetsumyoko Station. Some buses run but schedules are limited.

Best Season

Late April–November. Spring for mizubasho flowers and snowmelt waterfalls. Summer for green mountains and escape from heat. Autumn for fiery maple corridors.

Budget

Soba lunch ¥1,000–1,500. Onsen day-use ¥500–800. Gas for the drive ~¥1,000. Most of nature is free.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes (light hiking for Naena Falls). Towel for onsen. Layers — mountain weather changes fast. Camera for the views.

The mountains are 25 minutes away.

Stay at the kominka, drive to Myoko, and be back for dinner in Takada.

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