Norikura Skyline (Gifu and Nagano Prefecture)
The Norikura Skyline is legendary among Japanese mountain roads. It’s the highest road in Japan, climbing up to a dizzying 2,702 meters, with sweeping views of the Japanese Alps that can make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. But there’s a catch: the Skyline is now closed to private vehicles, including motorcycles. That’s right…no bikes, no cars. The only way to the top is by bus, taxi, or bicycle.
But don’t roll up the route map just yet. The journey to Norikura’s base, plus the chance to switch to a bus and go higher, makes for a fantastic day out. Here’s how to get the best of what you can experience on two wheels, plus a little extra with four.
The Start: Riding to Hirayu Onsen
The ride starts in Hirayu Onsen, a cozy mountain town famous for its hot springs. You’ll want to make this your base, not only because it’s a perfect spot for soaking away the post-ride soreness but also because it’s where you’ll catch the bus up the Norikura Skyline. Getting to Hirayu is a treat in itself, with scenic roads and long stretches that let you lean into the curves, surrounded by lush forests and dramatic mountain views.
After grabbing a quick bite (ramen at the local spot by the bus station is a must), you’re ready for the next leg of the journey. This is where the Norikura Skyline adventure really begins.
The Climb: Taking the Bus Up Norikura Skyline
Here’s where things get interesting. You’ll park your bike and switch to a bus (Hear me out… it's worth it!) at the Hirayu Onsen Bus Terminal. The buses are frequent and cater to riders and hikers alike, taking you on a winding route up to Tatamidaira, the highest point of the Skyline. It’s not as wild as riding it yourself, but the bus ride has its own charm. You’ll get to kick back, enjoy the scenery, and maybe even chat with other adventurers on the way up. And honestly, with the narrow curves and sheer drop-offs, it’s kind of nice to let someone else do the driving for a change!
The bus route itself is something special. As you ascend, you’ll notice the trees thin out and eventually disappear as you hit the alpine zone. The views just keep getting better, with mountains stretching out in every direction and the air getting colder and crisper. And let’s not forget, there’s still plenty of road to explore around the base on your bike after your bus ride!
The Summit: Tatamidaira and the Trails
Once you reach Tatamidaira, you’re at 2,702 meters: the highest bus terminal in Japan. The views here are next level, literally. On a clear day, you can see the Northern Alps stretching out like a jagged skyline in the distance. There are hiking trails of all levels that begin at Tatamidaira, so you can stretch your legs and get a closer look at the alpine scenery. For those feeling ambitious, the hike to Kengamine, Norikura’s highest peak, is about an hour and a half from the terminal.
Even a short wander around Tatamidaira offers breathtaking views, and there’s a small café where you can grab a warm drink and a snack before heading back down. And let’s not forget that even though you had to hop off the bike for the last stretch, there’s something pretty epic about having reached Japan’s highest road.
The Ride Back: Exploring the Base and the Surrounding Area
Once you’re back at Hirayu Onsen, it’s time to get back on the bike and explore the area around Norikura. The roads here may not take you to 2,702 meters, but they still deliver on those sweeping mountain vistas. There are several routes that branch off from the base, each with its own flavor. Try the Echo Line on the Nagano side for some beautifully winding roads and incredible valley views.
If you’ve still got the energy, take a side trip to Shinhotaka Ropeway, which offers more jaw-dropping mountain views (and yes, another chance to rest those legs on a cable car). This area is rich with scenic routes and peaceful spots to pull off, grab a snack, and just soak in the surroundings.
Wrapping It Up: Making the Most of Norikura
The Norikura Skyline may be closed to bikes, but that doesn’t mean it’s off limits for a memorable adventure. The combination of riding up to Hirayu Onsen, switching to the bus for the climb, and then cruising the area around the base offers a unique experience. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’ve made it to one of the highest points accessible in Japan, even if the final stretch required a bit of bus support.
So gear up, grab a friend, and head for Hirayu Onsen. Norikura might make you park the bike early, but it’s still a day you won’t forget. And hey, you get the best of both worlds: a killer ride and a chance to kick back on the way up. Not a bad deal for a place this high up!
Connecting /Nearby Routes
Just because this route is closed off most of the way to private motor vehicles doesn't mean the adventure is over… Park your bike up so that when you return from the shuttle bus, you can explore these three additional scenic routes nearby which you will be able to ride on:
1. Kamikochi Road (Route 158)
Route 158 is a scenic road that leads to the Kamikochi Valley, famous for its natural beauty, clear rivers, and stunning mountain views. Although vehicles can’t enter the protected core of Kamikochi, Route 158 allows access to the nearby Kamikochi Visitor Center and offers parking with shuttle services to explore the valley further.
- Location: Runs from Matsumoto City toward Norikura Kogen, connecting to shuttle services and trailheads.
- Search Terms: "Kamikochi Route 158" or 上高地 国道158号
- Route Number: National Route 158
- Tip: Plan to park near Sawando and take a shuttle bus into Kamikochi.
2. Shirahone Onsen Route (Route 300)
This accessible road winds through peaceful forested areas and offers a relaxing complement to the more rugged, mountainous sections nearby. While the Norikura Skyline may be closed to private vehicles, Route 300 provides a scenic drive with opportunities to stop and enjoy the natural hot springs.
- Location: Near Norikura Kogen, connected to Route 158, with easy access to onsen facilities and the Norikura area.
- Search Terms: "Shirahone Onsen Route 300" or 白骨温泉 国道300号
- Route Number: National Route 300
- Tip: Visit Awa no Yu at Shirahone Onsen for a soak in open-air baths surrounded by nature..
3. Norikura Kogen Road (Prefectural Route 84)
Prefectural Route 84 takes you through Norikura Kogen, a highland area with open fields, hiking trails, and beautiful views of Mount Norikura. This route is an excellent option for those wanting to experience the highland atmosphere with a more accessible, vehicle-friendly road.
- Location: Runs through the Norikura Highlands, offering access to scenic viewpoints and trails.
- Search Terms: "Norikura Kogen Route 84" or 乗鞍高原 国道84号
- Route Number: Prefectural Route 84
- Tip: Explore the Sanbon Falls area and take in the scenic views of the Norikura Highlands.
Planning Your Own Japan Motorbike Tour?
If you're planning your own motorbike tour through Japan, renting a bike is a great option. Our friends at Rental819 are a fantastic choice for foreign riders—they offer a wide selection of well-maintained bikes at reasonable prices, with locations all across Japan. They're also known for being very foreigner-friendly, making the process easy even if your Japanese isn't perfect.
Whether you're after a quick weekend trip or a full-blown tour, Rental819 has got you covered. And if you need any tips or advice along the way, feel free to reach out! At Shogun Motorbike Adventures, we're always happy to help fellow riders experience the incredible roads and rich culture that Japan has to offer.
Experience This Route On A Shogun Adventure:
While the Norikura Skyline is closed to private vehicles, our upcoming Mountain Strider Tour running in 2026 will bring you some incredible alternative routes to explore as we base ourselves in the amazing mountain town of Takayama, in close proximity to the Norikura Skyline. On this tour we will hit some alternative high octane routes.
If you can’t wait until then, and want to experience what else Japan has on offer, check out our Fuji Explorer Tour, with 7-day and 10-day options, both running in May and October 2025 and 2026.
As well as the Mountain Strider Tour, in 2026 we will be running the Volcanic Voyage Tour and Wilderness Expedition Tour. These are brand new tours that you can read up about and register interest for right now.
