Distance
230 km
Duration
1 day
Climb
1,400 m
Nagano Ina Valley & Central Alps Loop.
A sweeping circuit through the Ina Valley and the Central Alps of Nagano Prefecture. The route threads between the Kiso Mountains to the east and the Southern Alps to the west β two of Japan's highest ranges β passing Matsumoto Castle, the mirror surface of Lake Suwa, and the Komagatake Ropeway that climbs to 2,612m above the treeline. Autumn foliage from mid-October is spectacular.
Quick facts
SurfacePaved
Distance230 km
Days1
Total climb1,400 m
DifficultyModerate
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The route.
Matsumoto CastleStart Β· Start at Matsumoto Castle β Japan's oldest surviving wooden castle, a National Treasure. Fuel up in the city before heading south.
Lake SuwaScenic Point Β· Lake Suwa sits in a graben valley and can freeze solid in winter, cracking with a loud boom locals call 'Omiwatari' β the crossing of the gods. The lakeside promenade offers views of the Alps.
Komagane β Komagatake RopewayMountain Pass Β· The Komagatake Ropeway departs from Shirabi-daira (1,662m) and climbs to 2,612m in 7.5 minutes β above the treeline into alpine cirque terrain. One of the highest ropeway stations in Japan.
IidaRestaurant Β· Stop in Iida for lunch. The city is famous for its apple orchards and local specialty 'Touri-mochi' (a regional rice cake). Good ramen options downtown.
MatsumotoEnd Β· Return to Matsumoto via Route 153 and the Kiso Valley. The city has excellent izakayas for a post-ride meal.
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