Takabotchi Highlands

From the summit, which offers a 360-degree view, visitors can fully enjoy the scenery of not only the mountains of the Northern Alps, but also Lake Suwa, the Southern Alps, and Mt.Fuji.

The drive to the top of Takabotchi Highlands can be quite challenging, and personally I don't think it is worth the effort to drive up to here. There are other spots around that gives better view.

Took a trip up the mountain in June hoping to see Mt. Fuji in the distance - the clouds didn't cooperate but the views were still stunning! Drove up in a Toyota Voxy for car camping. Was surprised to find that we were not alone - there were a few other cars parked at the top overnight. Technically, there are designated tent camping spots, but they seem a bit overgrown. The mountain pass up to the summit is curvy with hairpin corners like all other Japanese mountain passes. Be careful on the way up, as motorcyclist also ride this pass and are harder to see. Would definitely come back again for car camping and recommend it to others. The evening and morning views of the nearby city and mountains were amazing.

A place where you can see the great view of the North Alps without walking at all. If you like mountains, you may visit this place. Because we went at the end of November, both the road and the parking lot were free, but seems to be crowded in the summer season. Driving a mountain road with narrow curves is wary of caution.

This place has some great views of the city while social distancing. Both the roads leading to and back down aren't for the nervous, especially in pitch black darkness. Memorize the turns because I had to reverse for an incoming car and I couldn't see the rail. Other than that, being some snacks. Catch the fresh air, spray some bug repellent, and close your eyes and relax.