Bijinbayashi Beech Forest
美人林
A pure beech forest of about 3 hectares in Matsunoyama, Tokamachi. The trees grow tall and straight, like beautiful women, which gave the forest its name. The reflections of fresh green and yellow leaves on the water are stunning.
Bijinbayashi is located in Matsunoyama, Tokamachi city. It is a beech forest with trees about a century old that regenerated naturally after logging in the early Showa period. The trees are straight and orderly, earning it the name “Beautiful Forest.” The forest offers different scenes throughout the year: fresh green in May with patches of lingering snow, deep green in June and July, golden foliage in late October, and snowy landscapes in winter. The small pond among the trees, which reflects the trunks, is a popular photo spot. It is also a site connected to the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, and nearby is the Matsunoyama Natural Science Museum, “Mori no Gakko Kyororo.” Entry is free. There is a paid parking lot. The forest is least crowded early in the morning. It takes about 50 minutes to drive from Echigo-Yuzawa.
Opening hours
Open all day (watch for deep snow in winter)
Nearby sights
- Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel
- Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort
- GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort
- Takahan Ryokan Kasumi Room
- Maiko Snow Resort
- Yuzawa Kogen Ropeway & Alp no Sato
- Yukiguni-kan Museum
- Echigo-Yuzawa Onsen Town