Why Yamanouchi should be your next mountain getaway

Yamanouchi: A hidden gem for nature lovers. Nestled in the heart of Nagano Prefecture in Japan, Yamanouchi is a little Japanese town that often flies under the radar of most travelers. While many visit the area for the famous Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, this charming town offers so much more. With breathtaking hiking trails, serene ponds and access to Japan’s largest ski area during the winter season, this destination offers something special year-round. For those seeking an authentic adventure, Yamanouchi should be at the top of your travel list. 

Stay at AIBIYA Guesthouse

Your home away from home. If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay in Yamanouchi, look no further than AIBIYA Guesthouse. This modern, stylish and incredibly welcoming accommodation is a favourite of ours. The inside is really cozy and the rooms are really spacious. The guesthouse has shared toilets and showers, along with a cozy breakfast/sitting area and a fully equipped kitchen. We found this to be no trouble at all, as the communal spaces were impeccably clean. The true highlight of our stay at AIBIYA was undoubtedly the wonderful couple who run the guesthouse. They were incredibly welcoming, and we thoroughly enjoyed our conversations with them. They shared great insights about the local area and provided fantastic recommendations. If you’re planning to stay overnight in or around Yamanouchi, this guesthouse is the perfect choice!

Things to do in Yamanouchi

  1. Visit the Snow Monkey Park: Of course, no trip to Yamanouchi is complete without a visit to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can observe wild Japanese macaques soaking in natural hot springs. Open year-round, the park is particularly enchanting in winter when the snow-covered landscape provides a magical backdrop. You do need to keep in mind that sometimes the monkeys leave the park since they are wild animals. Check the live camera’s on their website to see if they are in the park before going. 

 

  1. Hike to Onuma-ike Pond: For hiking enthousiasts, the Onuma-ike Pond hike is a must-do. This hiking trail takes you through lush forests and scenic views around the beautiful Onuma-ike Pond. It’s a peaceful escape that allows you to reconnect with nature and experience the untouched beauty of the region. 

 

  1. Explore Shiga Kogen Higlands: Yamanouchi serves a gateway to the Shiga Kogen Higlands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its hiking trails, alpine scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you’re visiting in the summer for wildflower covered meadows or in the winter for world-class skiing, this are is a haven for outdoor adventures. 

 

  1. Relax in an Onsen: No trip to Japan is complete without a dip in a traditional hot spring, and Yamanouchi has plenty to offer. Unwind in one of the local onsen and soak up the mineral-rich water while surrounded by mountain views. You can book a private onsen if you don’t feel comfortable in a public onsen. We booked a private one through our accommodation. 

Where to eat and drink in Yamanouchi

Yamanouchi offers a variety of culinary experiences that highlight fresh, local ingredients. Here are some of the best spots to try:

  1. Isamizuchi: For traditional sushi lovers, isamizuchi is an absolute treasure. This small, intimate restaurant focuses on locally sourced fish. The menu features traditional nigiri, sashimi and other rolls that are as delicious as they are beautifully made by an old Japanese couple. 
  1. Wkwk café food & space: This newly opened bar is just a few minutes’ walk from AIYBIYA and is an absolute gem. The owner, a skilled and seasoned bartender with international experience, has returned to his hometown to create a bar of his own. The cocktails here are phenomenal – some of the best I’ve ever had! During the first two weeks, they were priced at just 500 yen each, though prices may have changed since. The menu offers an impressive variety of drinks, and if you’re unsure what to choose, the bartender can craft a cocktail tailored to your tastes. It’s an excellent spot to enjoy great drinks and connect with locals in Yamanouchi. Highly recommended!
  1. Japanese dining GOEN: GOEN is where you’ll find some of the best fresh seafood in Yamanouchi. This cozy restaurant prides itself on using the freshest ingredients. The sushi just melted in our mouths. 
  1. Wakabaya café: One of Yamanouchi’s newest gems. A charming and inviting space opened by a young local. You can savor a variety of coffee blends crafted with care, from rich espressos to creamy lattes. I recommend the latte with espresso and matcha combined. And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss their selection of ice cream which pairs wonderfully with a hot drink on a leisurely afternoon. 

Why Yamanouchi deserves a spot on your travel list

Yamanouchi is a destination that combines natural beauty, cultural charm and incredible food while maintaining a serene and unspoiled atmosphere. This charming town offers a refreshing escape from the crowds often found in popular mountain destinations like Takayama. Here, you can enjoy a more authentic experience, immersing yourself in local culture and forging meaningful connections with Japanese residents, making your visit truly unforgettable.

 

Fun facts: this town was actually the hosting town of the Nagano Winter Olympics in 1998. From Yamanouchi you have access to the largest ski resort in Japan, Shiga Kogen.