Utsukushigahara Highlands
On the eastern edge of Matsumoto City lies Utsukushigahara (literally beautiful highland). From here you can begin a short refreshing walk or a long adventure. Not far from the parking lot here is a peaceful meadow with grazing cows and lovely wild flowers, along with an old bell tower once used by those lost in the fog.
On a clear day, the 360 degree view is breathtaking and worth a few pictures. One can see Mt. Fuji and Mt. Kitadake to the south, the Hotaka Range and Mt. Yari to the west, and Mt. Asama to the east. A short ways down the road you will also find the Open-air Art Museum looking out on Matsumoto and a gift shop selling interesting treats. It has some of the craziest and eclectic outdoor art anywhere in Japan.
| Access | BUS:See the explanation below CAR:1 hour from the Matsumoto Interchange |
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