Discover the mirror-like beauty of Mishaka Pond.
This tranquil hidden gem was a favorite motif of a legendary Japanese artist. The glassy water creates a flawless reflection of the forest, reaching a surreal level of beauty during the spring greenery and peak autumn colors. It’s a place where nature and art become one.
Access
Route: Alpico Kotsu Bus "Shibu-no-yu Line" from JR Chino Station
Duration: Approx. 40 minutes
Bus Stop: "Mishakaike" (The pond is right by the stop)
Touch the Sky: A 360° Panorama of Japan's Giants.
A scenic lift ride whisks you straight to the 1,925m peak, offering stunning views of Mt. Fuji and the Japanese Alps. No heavy trekking required—thanks to the wonders of modern technology (the lifts!), even beginners can enjoy a world-class view without breaking a sweat.
Access
Step 1: From JR Chino Station, board the Alpico Kotsu Bus for "Kurumayama Kogen."
Step 2: Ride for about 60 minutes and get off at the final stop.
Step 3: From the bus stop, use the scenic lifts to head to the summit.
Discover the mirror-like beauty of Mishaka Pond.
Kirigamine is a majestic plateau sitting at 1,600 meters. It is famous for having the most refreshing breeze in Japan—so legendary, in fact, that Mitsubishi Electric named its premium air conditioner brand "Kirigamine" to capture its essence. In July, the rolling hills are blanketed in vibrant yellow "Nikko-kisuge" lilies. Hiking here allows you to experience the "authentic cool breeze" that inspired the famous brand, all while enjoying panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and the Japanese Alps.
Access
Route: Alpico Kotsu Bus "Kurumayama Kogen Line" from JR Chino Station
Duration: Approx. 50 minutes
Bus Stop: "Kirigamine Inter" or "Kowashimizu"
Gravity-Defying Art: A Floating Tea House.
Designed by the world-renowned architect Terunobu Fujimori, the "Flying Mud Boat" (Soratobu Dorofune) is a surreal tea house suspended in mid-air by cables. Looking like something straight out of a Studio Ghibli film, it challenges gravity and the traditional concept of Japanese tea rooms. Nearby, you can also see the "Too-High Tea House" (Takasugi-an), making this area a creative "architectural wonderland" full of humor and imagination.
Access
Route: Alpico Kotsu Bus "Merchen Kaido Line" from JR Chino Station
Duration: Approx. 20 minutes
Bus Stop: "Togariishi Jomon Kokokan" (The site is a 10-15 minute walk from the museum)
Meet the Iconic "Venus of Jomon"
This museum is a gateway to the incredible artistry of the Jomon people who lived in Japan 5,000 years ago. The highlights are the two National Treasure clay figurines: the "Venus of Jomon" and the "Masked Goddess." Their unique, stylized forms look like pieces of modern abstract art rather than ancient relics. Come and feel the mysterious spiritual world and the timeless beauty of these prehistoric masterpieces.
Access
Route: Alpico Kotsu Bus "Merchen Kaido Line" from JR Chino Station
Duration: Approx. 20 minutes
Bus Stop: "Togariishi Jomon Kokokan" (The museum is right in front of the stop)