Highlights include a distinctive mountain on the prefectural border, seasonal natural attractions and a rich cultural heritage. Chausuyama lies on the border between Toyone in Aichi Prefecture and Neba in Nagano Prefecture. At 1,415 meters, it is the highest mountain in Aichi. When planning your trip, it is worth taking the season into account: Chausuyama Kogen is used as a ski resort in winter and turns into a flower-covered hillside in spring.
Mountains and Blossoms Through the Seasons
The seasonal change is especially striking at Shibazakura Hill in Chausuyama Kogen, where around 400,000 moss phlox plants bloom across approximately 2.2 hectares. The usual flowering period runs from mid-May to early June; exact dates vary from year to year. A Shibazakura Festival is held during the flowering season, and its dates may also vary.
Planting on the hill began in fiscal year 2007 as part of a five-year plan to make Chausuyama Kogen a spring day-trip destination. Hagitaro-yama lies south of Chausuyama. From there, the panoramic view extends across the Southern Alps; on clear days, Hamamatsu and Nagoya are also visible.
Stargazing Tours and Living Traditions
From September to November, special stargazing tours for a maximum of three groups are offered at the Peak Observatory. Before your trip, check whether the seasonal tours are running on your dates. The Tenku Stargazing Society offers tours with explanations in Japanese about the stars of the Mikawa region, as well as telescope viewing. Since schedules may change, it is a good idea to check the latest information before your visit.
The Sakauba Hana Festival is held at Hachiman Shrine, lasts all night and is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. The tradition is more than 700 years old. As event dates vary from year to year, check the dates for your trip.
Bathing, the Outdoors and Local Cuisine
湯～らんどパルとよね offers eight types of hot spring baths, including an open-air bath surrounded by greenery. The two water qualities alternate depending on the period. There is also a lift at Chausuyama Kogen; check its operating hours before your trip.
Several sections around the Shin-Toyone Dam have been developed as walking trails and are suitable for hiking. Some roads are currently closed, so check local access conditions before your visit. Green Stage Han no Ki offers trout fishing, a large maze and charcoal grilling. Reservations are required for grilling. Seasonal activities run from spring through autumn; confirm current availability before your visit.
Local produce and dishes are also part of the experience: The restaurant at Michi-no-Eki Toyone Green Port Miyajima serves homemade dishes made with sturgeon farmed in Toyone’s clear natural water, as well as fresh vegetables. A shop at Green Port Miyajima sells blueberries and products made from them. This is a way to experience the community’s natural surroundings, culture and cuisine as distinct facets, while factoring flowering seasons, events and seasonal offerings into your plans.
Discover more destinations: Shinshiro, Tokoname, Chita District, Kitanagoya, Higashiura, Tahara, Nishio, Toyoyama
Back to the main travel guide: Aichi Prefecture.
