I had a little escape from the city to the mountains and this time, I am in the Yatsugatake mountain range. The name Yatsugatake literally means the eight peaks in Japanese language. However, the mountain range of Yatsugatake has more than eight peaks so the word 'yatsu' here doesn't merely means 'eight' but also the nuance of 'many' in Japanese language.
There is a cool legend behind these magnificent mountain ranges. It was said that Mt Yatsugatake was once just one tall mountain, very similar to Mt Fuji and was protected by a god. This issue doesn't sit well with the proud goddess of Mt Fuji. It wasn't long before the two protectors started to fight over the two mountains' height. Each insisted that one is taller than the other. The Buddha who was the judge of this conflict created a gutter between the two mountains. He then pours water into the gutter and the water flows from Mt Yatsugatake to Mt Fuji proving the former being the higher one. The goddess of Mt Fuji was angry to be proven wrong and struck Mt Yatsugatake multiple times with her magic long stick till the mountain become a chain of jagged mountains range as we see today. I think the goddess may have done a good deed by making Mt Yatsugatake and its surroundings more stunning.
Although this area used to be a wasteland, but today, it is a popular summer resort known for its natural surroundings, wildlife and greenery. One can enjoy bird watching, cycling, hiking and even star gazing as it has been found that the terrain of this place offers wide flat land which allows a 360 degree view of the skies. Nobeyama is the place for some serious star observation. Some hotels also have its own telescope for its guest.
Walking around this area has been therapeutic with lots of quiet pathways to walk and very few cars. I guess this place is busy, mostly during the summer. Also, due to the infrequency of public transportation in this area, less people will travel here after the peak season. It is absolutely a wonderful place for nature lovers, as the cabins of Yatsugatake are located in the woods with awesome views.
Like I said, this place is a heaven for those who love walking and strolling and the landscape is best to savour if you are not rushing for time (why would you while in the mountains?). Probably, it is a good idea to travel with a car as you will be able to drive on one of the most scenic roads, the Yatsugatake Kogen Line Road. The best time is of course in late Oct till Nov.
If you are travelling using the public transportation like me, then, it is wise to check the schedule for the train and bus before you head out.
The JR East Koumi line is also known as the Yatsugatake Kogen line is one of the most scenic train lines in Japan. The line starts from Kobuchizawa station in Yamanashi-ken and ends at the Komoro station in Nagano-ken with Nobeyama station being the highest JR station in Japan. This train ride is a must-ride train ride in Japan.
Just bring your camera or your favourite drink on board, sit back and enjoy your ride through the mountains of Yatsugatake.
Although this area used to be a wasteland, but today, it is a popular summer resort known for its natural surroundings, wildlife and greenery. One can enjoy bird watching, cycling, hiking and even star gazing as it has been found that the terrain of this place offers wide flat land which allows a 360 degree view of the skies. Nobeyama is the place for some serious star observation. Some hotels also have its own telescope for its guest.
Walking around this area has been therapeutic with lots of quiet pathways to walk and very few cars. I guess this place is busy, mostly during the summer. Also, due to the infrequency of public transportation in this area, less people will travel here after the peak season. It is absolutely a wonderful place for nature lovers, as the cabins of Yatsugatake are located in the woods with awesome views.
Like I said, this place is a heaven for those who love walking and strolling and the landscape is best to savour if you are not rushing for time (why would you while in the mountains?). Probably, it is a good idea to travel with a car as you will be able to drive on one of the most scenic roads, the Yatsugatake Kogen Line Road. The best time is of course in late Oct till Nov.
If you are travelling using the public transportation like me, then, it is wise to check the schedule for the train and bus before you head out.
The JR East Koumi line is also known as the Yatsugatake Kogen line is one of the most scenic train lines in Japan. The line starts from Kobuchizawa station in Yamanashi-ken and ends at the Komoro station in Nagano-ken with Nobeyama station being the highest JR station in Japan. This train ride is a must-ride train ride in Japan.
Just bring your camera or your favourite drink on board, sit back and enjoy your ride through the mountains of Yatsugatake.
 |
| Our cabin lodging in the mountains |
 |
| Barbequeing our mushrooms as snack |
Where is your favourite autumn spot in Japan?
No comments:
Post a Comment