Sasagamine

Sasagamine

Located deep in the Myoko mountain range and part of Myoko Togakushi Renzan National Park. The Sasagamine plateau is located 1,300m above sea level, receives little rainfall and is cool even during the summer months. The area covers over 132 hectares so there is a lot to explore. The grassland is dotted with huge Japanese elm trees and the Myoko mountain range frames the background. There are many walking and hiking routes to explore and the area is also the starting point for climbing Mt Hiuchi. Below we have listed some of the popular spots in Sasagamine.

For bus timetables please check our local bus page.

For Sasagamine hiking trails check our trail page here.

POPULAR AREAS IN SASAGAMINE

sennin-pond

SENNIN POND

Sennin Pond is a beautiful little spot that you pass on your way to Sasagamine on the road. If you have your own car you can stop in the small parking area or alternatively you can walk from the main area to the pond. The pond itself is small but beautiful. In the right weather it beautifully reflects the mountains in its still waters.

Sasagamine farm area

SASAGAMINE FARM AREA

Sasagamine farm is a large area of expansive greenery with large Japanese elm trees dotted across it. From July, the cows are put out to graze in this area and the fields are covered with bright yellow buttercups and other flowers. There are numerous paths around the farm area and surrounding woodland areas which are great for walking. All are well sign posted.

shimizuga ike

SHIMIZUGA POND

Shimizuga Pond can be reached from the farm area. Most of the trails will lead that way and the pond is sign posted. This is a very picturesque spot and is a nice area to stop and have a picnic. This area is beautiful in both spring and autumn.

Otomi Lake

SASAGAMINE DAM & OTOMI LAKE

To cross over to the forest area (see below), you must first cross this amazing dam. In the heart of Sasagamine this dam holds back the waters of Otomi lake. It is amazing to walk across and provides some great views of the lake and surrounding area and mountain ranges.

FOREST AREA & WETLAND AREA

This is one of the best areas to take a walk in Sasagamine. It becomes accessible from mid-May after the snow has melted. To get to this area you must cross over the dam and ascend a steep stairway. From the top, the paths are then reasonably level with no steep inclines. It’s a great place for the whole family to take a walk. The woodland and wetland areas are filed with amazing flowers and plenty of wild life. It is a truly stunning area. The small loop will take 2-3 hours to walk around depending on your pace and how often you stop to take photos. In spring, the area is filled with skunk cabbages. At the half way point you will come across a large wetland area called Yume Mi Daira. This open area is filled with skunk cabbages and Mt Mitahara fills the background. This is one of the most famous photo spots in Sasagamine.

For a trail map check our page here.

SEASONS IN SASAGAMINE

Sasagamine is a great place to experience the different seasons. The area is drastically different depending on when you visit. In spring the area is fields of yellow, summer it is lush green and then in autumn the trees turn shades of yellow orange and red.

PLACES TO EAT

Green House Restaurant

Green house is a great place to eat. They are famous for the jumbo steak they serve. we recommend their teishoku set (set meal). You will get a variety of small dishes which includes steak, mountain vegetables, soup, rice and more. Its very delicious.

  • Green House famous jumbo steak – 5,500 Yen
  • Sasagamine set meal – 2,500 Yen
  • Hamburg set meal – 1,300 Yen
  • Pork Cutlet set meal – 1,300 Yen
  • Ramen – From 800 Yen
  • Variety of soba and udon dishes – From 800 Yen
Other places to visit
Koya Pond

Mt Hiuchi

Mt Hiuchi is one of Japans 100 famous mountains and is situated in Myoko Togakushi Renzan National Park.

togakushi

1-Day Hike in Togakushi & Myoko

A one-day hike from Togakushi to Sasagamine with a local guide. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park.

Ryotei Ukiyo

Ryotei Ukiyo

Ryotei Ukiyo is a traditional high-class Japanese restaurant that represents the region’s food culture.

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