Midagahara is a stunning highland plateau located along the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. Renowned for its expansive wetlands, alpine flowers, and spectacular seasonal landscapes, Midagahara sits at an elevation of approximately 1,930 meters. Designated as a Ramsar wetland, this area is known for its ecological richness, hosting various plant species that change in appearance with each season. The walking trails, which span wooden boardwalks across the wetlands, provide easy access to this beautiful landscape for hikers of all skill levels.

Route Highlights

1. Wetland Boardwalk Trail

   • Distance: 2 km loop

   • Duration: 30–45 minutes

   • Difficulty: Easy

   • This scenic boardwalk path loops through the heart of Midagahara's wetland area. It’s an easy walk, perfect for those who want to explore the unique flora and enjoy panoramic views without a challenging hike. Along the trail, you’ll find marshes and ponds filled with plants like cotton grass and alpine wildflowers in spring and summer, and colorful autumn foliage by October.

2. Forest and Marshland Trail

   • Distance: 1.5 km loop

   • Duration: 30–40 minutes

   • Difficulty: Easy

   • A less-frequented trail that leads through parts of the Midagahara forest. This trail offers a quieter atmosphere and stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Interpretive signs along the way explain the unique geology and ecosystem of the region, making it an educational as well as scenic walk.

3. Observation Deck

   • Location: Near the Midagahara Hotel

   • A viewing deck near the hotel provides sweeping vistas of the Tateyama Range and, on clear days, Mount Fuji in the distance. Sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful, as the sky colors reflect off the ponds and marshes below.

Seasonal Highlights

• Spring to Summer (June–August): Midagahara’s alpine flowers bloom in full, creating a colorful landscape against the green wetland background.

• Autumn (September–October): The wetland turns a vibrant orange, red, and yellow, making it one of the best spots for autumn foliage on the Alpine Route.

Access

• From Tateyama Station: Take the Tateyama Cable Car to Bijodaira, followed by the Tateyama Highland Bus to Midagahara (approx. 30 minutes from Bijodaira).

• From Murodo: Take the Tateyama Highland Bus downhill to Midagahara, a convenient option for hikers descending from higher points on the Alpine Route.

Nearby Tips

• Midagahara Hotel: The hotel offers refreshments, restrooms, and serves as a good rest point for longer hikes.