Guide: Ishizawa Kenichiro
Certified Naeba Geopark Guide, Forest Instructor, and Nature Observation Leader accredited by the Nature Conservation Society of Japan.
A “geopark” is, quite literally, a “park of the Earth.” It’s a space where you can observe the formation of our planet, learn about its ecosystems, and connect with the history and culture shaped by the land. In the Snow Country Tourism Zone, the Naeba Geopark spans an impressive 442 square kilometers across Tsunan Town in Niigata Prefecture and Sakae Village in Nagano Prefecture. Recently, a trail course was established to explore this remarkable area—and we set out to experience it firsthand.
Naeba Geopark: Shaped by Volcanoes and Rivers
Naeba Geopark offers a unique opportunity to learn about the volcanic and fluvial forces that shaped the region. Over millennia, volcanic activity, fault movements, river terraces, and landslides have carved this diverse landscape. Among its highlights is one of Japan’s most renowned stepped terraces (river terraces), visible from National Route 405 on the opposite bank of the Nakatsugawa River. In ancient times, avalanches made it perilous to travel along the steep V-shaped valley, so a safer path along the river’s left bank was used. Today, this historic trail has been restored as the Nakatsugawa Walking Path, a 27-kilometer route from Ishioka Temple in Tsunan Town to the ruins of Yabitsu Village in Sakae Village. Part of the Snow Country Trail (SCT) now incorporates this path, offering breathtaking views of the area’s geological features.
Walking Through History and Nature
Starting at the Chufukami bus stop, we crossed the Nakatsugawa River and climbed a steep slope to reach the Okinohara Highlands. Known for asparagus and carrot farming—and sunflowers in summer—this area is also an archaeological treasure, with numerous Jomon pottery finds. From here, the trail diverges into a forested path that follows the Naeba Lava Flow’s Columnar Jointing, also known as Ishiotoshi.
“Columnar jointing occurs when volcanic lava cools and solidifies, creating pillar-like formations,” explains our Naeba Geopark guide, Kenichiro Ishizawa. “Around 300,000 years ago, lava flowed from Mt. Naeba and was later revealed through the erosive power of the Nakatsugawa River.”
A Living Museum of Flora and Fauna
Naeba Geopark is a haven for biodiversity, often called a “living botanical museum” with over 1,300 plant species. From snow-covered camellias (Yukitsubaki) to rare Ezogurumi trees, the park’s flora reflects its unique environment. As we walked, Ishizawa shared stories of how villagers once used plants like Tamushiba and Kuromoji as ingredients for cosmetics and medicinal liquors. Even berries like Akamono and Iwanashi served as childhood snacks. These anecdotes brought to life the deep connection between local life and the natural abundance of the mountains.
Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted—about 120 bird species call the area home, including peregrine falcons and mountain hawk-eagles, which nest on the cliffs. During the falcons’ nesting season in May, SCT routes are adjusted to protect their habitats.
Cultural and Historical Highlights
As we moved through the trail, we encountered remnants of abandoned villages, the scenic terraces of Ryutatsumine, and the historic Azuki-zaka slope. The latter is named after a tale in which villagers would cook azuki beans while waiting for a monk to arrive to perform last rites for the deceased.
Further along, we reached the Tekkando Water Pipeline, a waterway built in the Taisho era for the Nakatsugawa No. 1 Hydroelectric Power Plant. This plant supplied electricity to Tokyo and stands as a testament to the region’s industrial history.
A Rare Intersection of Trails
One of the most unique points on the route is the junction of three major trails: the Snow Country Trail, the Shinetsu Trail, and the Naeba Geopark Trail. Walking this path, we marveled at the soft, mossy forest floor and panoramic views over the terraces.
The Grand Finale
The trail concluded at the Yukito village area, near the Katakuri-no-Yado hot spring inn. Here, you can relax, stay overnight, or arrange an on-demand taxi back to Tsunan Town. The SCT offers more than a hike—it’s an invitation to witness the powerful forces of nature, connect with local history, and experience the timeless beauty of Snow Country.
Embark on this unforgettable journey and immerse yourself in the stories written into the land of the Naeba Geopark!
