Norikura Plateau, Tableland in Matsumoto, Japan
Norikura Plateau sits on the eastern slopes of Mount Norikura at about 2700 meters above sea level. The landscape here consists of alpine meadows and natural hot springs that feed into the terrain.
Mount Norikura formed through volcanic activity and reaches approximately 3026 meters. Over time, geological processes shaped this highland region in central Japan.
Local establishments in Norikura serve traditional soba noodles made from locally sourced buckwheat, following generations-old preparation methods.
You can reach the plateau by bus in roughly 80 minutes from Matsumoto Station or about 60 minutes from Shin-Shimashima Station. The routes are well marked, so finding your way around is straightforward.
From late April through June, snow walls around 10 meters tall remain visible across much of the plateau. This unusual landscape even allows for summer skiing at this elevation.
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