25 YEARS REIMAGINING HAKUBA GORYU
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Hakuba Goryu Alpine Botanical Garden—a milestone in the remarkable reimagining of the area, blending its winter ski resort roots with a vibrant summer destination.
Originally thriving as Goryu Toomi Ski Resort during Japan’s ski boom in the 1970s, by the late 1990s, warmer winters and declining visitors prompted the resort’s leadership to rethink its future. As the chairman reflected, “a time will come when relying solely on winter operations won’t be sustainable. We must seriously consider summer business.” In response, the resort shifted focus, investing heavily in the natural restoration of the slopes, leveraging Hakuba’s rich alpine flora and reintroducing native plants.
In 2000, Goryu staff and local innkeepers came together with a shared dream: to bring life to the summer slopes of Alps Daira by creating a space where nature and people could connect. What began as the Goryu Alps Wildflower Garden was renamed the Hakuba Goryu Alpine Botanical Garden in 2010, expanding to include mountain species from across Japan and around the world, including the beloved Himalayan blue poppy.
Today, the garden is lovingly cared for by a small, passionate team, many of whom return each year. They work quietly behind the scenes, pulling weeds, nurturing soil, and tending every detail, to keep the garden thriving at this unique mid-elevation setting.
Now in its 25th year, the garden welcomes visitors with a gentle beauty that shifts through the seasons. Once known only as a winter destination, Hakuba Goryu is now home to a new kind of magic, where flowers bloom, mountains stand tall, and nature’s quiet work continues, one season at a time.
Night Gondola: Stargazing at the Top of Hakuba Goryu
This August, Hakuba Goryu invites you to experience an unforgettable night gondola ride and stargazing event during the peak of the Perseid meteor shower. Taking place at 1,515 meters above sea level, this observation deck offers clear views of the night sky, far from city lights.
On clear nights, visitors will sight constellations and occasional shooting stars with the naked eye. The event also features a constellation seminar led by an expert from the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, along with special menus at the Summit Restaurant, and hands-on workshops for children and families. Designed for all ages, it is the perfect evening activity for stargazing enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
DATES: AUGUST 9-12
VENUE: HAKUBA GORYU ALPINE BOTANICAL GARDEN
SPECIAL EVENT: PEAK OF THE PERSEID METEOR SHOWER
RELAX, RECHARGE, AND TAKE A PIECE OF HAKUBA HOME
After trekking through the trails of Hakuba Goryu, unwind with a soothing soak at Ryuujin no Yu hot spring. Complete the experience with a sauna session to help you fully reset and recover.
Before you head home, stop by the Escal Shop for an omiyage. It is the largest souvenir store in the area, filled with local specialties, snacks, and unique gifts. It is the ideal place to bring a bit of Nagano home, whether for friends and family or as a personal keepsake.
FUN FACT: SEE A REAL GLACIER! From the Kotoomi Trail, you can spot Kakunezato Glacier on Mt. Kashimayari—Nagano Prefecture’s first officially recognized glacier!
Your starting point for adventure
TRAIL 1: EASY NATURE WALKING PATH Perfect for beginners or families, this 30-minute loop introduces you to Hakuba’s alpine flora. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Jizo Pond and don’t forget to ring the handmade bear bells along the way!
TRAIL 2: MIZUSAKI-ZAKA TREKKING For a short challenge, take this 20-minute uphill path from the Jizo Cairn, climbing 400 steps to Mizusaki-zaka (1,740m). The name, meaning “look back slope” says it all. The view is so stunning, you’ll want to turn around and take it all in. It is like climbing a stairway to the sky.
TRAIL 3: TREK TO KOTOOMI MOUNTAIN (3,615.7m) Feeling adventurous? Head past Mizusaki-zaka to the summit of Kotoomi Mountain, a 90-minute trek one way. After the stairs, the trail opens up to paths with gorgeous views from Ninokagami Ridge. Hikers often say it feels like walking through the clouds.
At the summit, take a well-earned break with snacks and coffee. Everything tastes better with a 360-degree mountain view!
