Shinhotaka Ropeway
新穂高ロープウェイ
Japan’s only double-deck cable car, climbing in two stages to Nishihotaka-guchi at 2,156 meters, with 360-degree views of the Hotaka range and Mount Yari in the Northern Alps.
The Shinhotaka Ropeway lies in the deepest part of the Okuhida hot spring area, at Shinhotaka Onsen. It consists of two cable car sections: the first runs from Shinhotaka Onsen Station to Kohira Plateau Station, and the second, from Shirakaba-daira Station, uses Japan’s only double-deck cable car to climb to Nishihotaka-guchi Station at 2,156 meters. The rooftop observation deck at the summit station offers a 360-degree view of the Northern Alps, including Nishihotakadake, Okuhotakadake (3,190 meters, Japan’s third-highest peak), Mount Yari and Mount Kasa. On clear days the scenery is magnificent, and autumn foliage and winter snow each have their own appeal. Near the summit is the “Senkoku Garden” walking path, which offers snow play in winter. Experienced hikers can set off from here toward Nishihotaka Hut (about 1.5 hours). Round-trip fares are over ¥3,000 (fares have changed, so check the official website). Operating hours are approximately 08:30–16:45 (starting at 09:00 in winter). Access: take a bus heading to Shinhotaka from the Takayama Norikomi Bus Center, about 1.5 hours, or transfer at Hirayu Onsen. Stay a night in Okuhida Onsen and head up early in the morning for the best views. Note that the summit is more than 10°C colder than the base, so bring a jacket even in summer. In poor weather, the mountain views may be hidden, so check the live camera on the official website before setting out.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:30–16:45 (adjusted by season)
Nearby sights
- Okuhida Onsen Villages
- Hirayu Great Falls
- Hida Great Limestone Cave
- Senko-ji Temple
- Higashiyama Walking Course
- Sakurayama Hachiman Shrine & Takayama Festival Floats Exhibition Hall
- Shiroyama Park (Takayama Castle Ruins)
- Takayama Museum of History and Art