The Central Alps from Japan’s Highest Ropeway

Admire the mountainous majesty of the Senjojiki Cirque in all four seasons

The Central (“Chuo”) Alps in Nagano are an alluring destination for alpinists and nature lovers of all stripes. The Komagatake Ropeway climbs 950 meters in just over seven minutes to a vantage point 2,612 meters above sea level. Here you can gaze out over the Senjojiki Cirque, a vast basin forged by glaciers some 20,000 years ago, with the Southern Alps and Mt. Fuji rising in the distance.

From lingering spring snow in spring to autumn foliage, the Senjojiki Cirque offers beauty year-round, plus mountain hiking trails for every experience level. In winter, enjoy unique views of frozen trees and snow-swept slopes from the warm comfort of the Senjojiki Hotel, where the restaurant serves up many local delicacies.

From Tokyo Station, take the Chuo Line (Azusa Express) to Okaya Station (about 150 minutes). From Okaya Station, take the Iida Line to Komagane Station (about 65 minutes). From Komagane Station, take the bus to Komagatake Ropeway Shirabidaira bus stop.

Chuo Alps Komagatake Ropeway