Norikura Skyline Road is the highest public road in Japan
Japan, asia
14.4 km
10 m
hard
Year-round
Hey fellow adventurers! Have you heard about the Norikura Skyline in Japan's Nagano Prefecture? Nestled in the Chūbu region, this paved beauty offers views that will absolutely knock your socks off.
Winding its way up Mount Norikura, a massive dormant volcano in the Northern Japan Alps, this road takes you all the way up to 2,700m (8,858ft)! Fun fact: it's the highest public road in Japan, although the actual summit is only reachable on foot.
Word to the wise: this toll road is usually buried under snow for more than half the year. Think towering snow walls over 10 meters high! It's generally open from mid-May to the end of October, with slightly different hours depending on the month. Also, private cars aren't allowed above 1,800m – you'll need to hop on a bus, taxi, or bicycle to continue.
Trust me, the experience is unforgettable. The views of the Yarigatake and Hodaka Mountain Range are simply spectacular, and you’ll get a stunning panoramic view of the Northern Alps along the way. Once you reach Tatamihira, the last stop, take a stroll and soak in the alpine plants, dwarf pines, and maybe even spot some cool birds!
This 14.4 km (8.94 miles) route climbs steeply in parts (up to 12%!), and has 10 tunnels so keep your eyes peeled. This road is a toll road that runs from Hirayutouge to Norikuradake Tatamihira.
So, if you're looking for an epic driving adventure with scenery that'll leave you breathless, the Norikura Skyline is calling your name!
Where is it?
Norikura Skyline Road is the highest public road in Japan is located in Japan (asia). Coordinates: 37.1666, 138.1040
Road Details
- Country
- Japan
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 14.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 10 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 37.1666, 138.1040
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