Route Overview
The Okushiga Forest Road is a scenic 42 km mountain road that connects Shiga Kogen in Nagano Prefecture with Akiyamago (Sakae Village) and Tsunan Town in Niigata Prefecture. The road runs at an elevation of around 1,500 meters, passing through pristine beech forests, gorges, waterfalls, and offering views of mountains like Mt. Naeba and Mt. Myoko. It is typically open from mid-May to late October and is closed during the snowy winter season.
Recommended Driving Section
The 25 km section from around the Okushiga Kogen Hotel to Kiriake Onsen in Akiyamago is especially recommended. This stretch features a winding route with climbs and descents, and it’s particularly stunning in the autumn when the leaves change color.
Road Conditions & Safety Information
The entire route is paved but narrow, with rough surfaces and many unguarded sections. Drivers should proceed with caution. Cell phone coverage is very limited, and there are no gas stations or vending machines along the way. Be well-prepared with supplies, fuel, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Scenic Stops
- Primeval beech forests in Okushiga Kogen
- Kaya-no-Taira Highlands
- Akiyamago (Kiriake Onsen and natural riverside footbath)
- Viewpoints of Mt. Naeba and Mt. Myoko
Local Food
There are few restaurants along the road itself, but in the surrounding areas, you can enjoy hand-made Shinshu soba noodles, mountain vegetable dishes, grilled iwana (mountain trout), and traditional “matagi” (hunter-style) meals.
Fees & Access Information
No toll is required. The road is accessible from the Shinshu-Nakano IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway, followed by about a 1-hour drive to Shiga Kogen. Once on the forest road, conditions can be rough, so drive carefully.
Best Season & Climate
The road is usually open from mid-May to late October. Fresh greenery peaks in early June, and autumn colors are best from early to mid-October. Due to high elevation, summers are cool, while spring and fall can be quite chilly.
Touring Plan Example
Day Trip Model Route
Start at Shiga Kogen → Drive through Okushiga Forest Road → Stop at Kiriake Onsen for a riverside footbath → Continue to Tsunan Town → End in Tokamachi.
Optional detour: stop at a scenic viewpoint of Mt. Naeba along the way.