Minakami is a mountainous town known for its array of outdoor adventures and having one of the country’s most popular ski resorts. This picturesque town is captivating year-round, with tranquil hot springs and local culinary delights.

Things to do

Minakami boasts some of the closest ski resorts to Tokyo, making it a hotspot for skiers and snowboarders. Its mountainous and forested setting is also ideal for white-water rafting, canyoning and bungee jumping along the scenic Tone River.

Hike to Mount Tanigawa to find a trail along the length of its ridge that’s particularly beautiful in autumn when the foliage turns shades of red, orange and yellow. If you’d rather stay inside, sign up for cultural experiences, such as traditional tofu making and ceramics classes.

Rest your weary muscles while marvelling at the region’s natural beauty at one of Minakami’s hot springs. Takaragawa Onsen has some of the most famous “rotenburo” outdoor baths in the country, while Hoshi Onsen is nestled deep in the mountains of Minakami, where water bubbles up through the stones on the floor of the tub.

Sample Hegi-soba noodles, a local specialty made with fresh water. Sign up for a noodle-making course or take a self-guided tour of the local food scene with a bowl of handmade soba or udon at Kadoya restaurant.

Getting around

The easiest way to get around Minakami is by foot or bicycle. You can arrive by train via Tokyo at the JR Minakami Station in around one hour, with buses running from the station to the city centre in 20 minutes. Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport in Tokyo are both around a three-hour drive away.