Minakami Cherry Blossom Viewing

Being the other side of the mountains to the rest of the Snow Country Region, Minakami is often the first to have cherry blossoms in bloom as they make their way up the country. Minakami is dotted with great places to stretch out a blanket (or blue sheet if you are a local) and enjoy a picnic as you admire the flowers. A great option is Kenshin no Sakasa Zakura.

The ancient cherry trees are not the only attraction in the area. Located just off the old trade route there are some amazing old inns around, each with onsen that will delight even the most picky onsen purist. There is a large lake nearby with some great walking trails and also some points of historical interest.

Check out this link for more information and a guide to some of the reccommended hotels and activities within striking distance of these cherry blossoms - more than enough to fill a relaxing spring break in the country.

Winter fun in Minakami

Minakami has a fantastic reputation as an outdoor adventure paradise. Much of its fame comes from the abundance of activities in summer. It is sometimes overlooked as a great winter destination too. Whether you are looking for fun on the slopes, a gondola ride to the top of the mountains, some extreme backcountry riding or a peaceful snowshoe tour, there is plenty to keep everyone in the family occupied.

There are lots of ski resorts in the area too. In fact, did you know that Minakmi boasts 10 resorts in all? And though you may not have heard of all of them, each of them is worth a visit.

Tenjindaira has already opened but the other resorts won't be far behind. Below are the planned opening dates for the other 9 Minakami ski resorts.

Dec 15th - Houdaigi
Dec 20th - Norn
Dec 21st - White Valley, and Okutone
Dec 22nd - Minakami Kogen, Fujiwara, Oana, and Akasawa
Depending on snow - Kanosawa

There is also plenty of great accommodation in Minakami if you are looking for a memorable stay.

Minakami Happiness Campaign

The Minakami marketing machine has gone into overdrive this summer showcasing the many attractions of their town under the banner of the Minakami Happiness Campaign. They have put together a bit of a teaser video to tempt you into a visit. Check it out below.

The outdoor sports are famous with bungy jumping, canyoning, rafting, paragliding, canoeing and mountain biking all on offer, and snow sports also well represented.

It is also well-known for its stunning natural beauty with some great shots in the promo video.

Check out the video. (.wmv download)

Tempted?

Sarugakyo Fireworks - Aug 25th

Fireworks festivals are a big part of summer in Japan. Sitting back and watching the fireworks with a cool drink and some snacks is a great way to spend a warm evening. Most areas have their summer festival complete with fireworks and Saturday August 25th it is the turn of Sarugakyo, the little township on the way from Minakami to Naeba.  It is a beautiful area if you have never been - heavily wooded hills and a large lake..

There is a full schedule of events with live music and performance from mid-afternoon, culminating with the fireworks at 2000 and then the traditional Bon dancing.

Sarugakyo Fireworks

Hoshi Onsen

Snow Country has plenty of fantastic onsen and if you find one that even the Japanese are in awe of, you know it must be a good one. Hoshi Onsen is definitely in that category.

It is well known as a traditional onsen and is situated on what used to be the main road from Tokyo over into Niigata Prefecture. The expressway tunnel under the mountains reduced the importance of Route 17, but Hoshi Onsen is still there offering rest and relaxation to the weary traveler as it has been for over 100 years. If you are looking for a true onsen experience, you can't go wrong.