Nestled in a mountainous setting at the entrance to historic Echigo, Myoko is a bustling city in Japan’s Niigata Prefecture. Many of its attractions lie within the borders of Myoko-Togakushi Renzan National Park, including the Akakura Onsen Ski Area and snow-capped Mount Myoko.
Things to do in Myoko
If you’re visiting in the winter months, you can hit the slopes of Akakura, which is a favourite mountain retreat for Japan’s imperial family. Established in the 1930s, it is one of the oldest ski resorts in the world, with so many lifts and runs that it never feels crowded. In addition to downhill skiing, there are terrain parks to challenge snowboarders and slalom races are held in the summer months.
Akakura forms part of the Myoko Kogen ski area, which is also renowned for its onsen (hot springs), where you can soak at the end of your ski session. In the warmer months, the region is a popular setting for hiking, with spectacular displays of wildflowers and cherry blossoms in the spring. Experienced trekkers can tackle the 2,454-metre-high summit of Mount Myoko, an active stratovolcano.
History buffs shouldn’t miss a visit to the Kannondaira-Tenjindō Kofun Group, an archaeological site encompassing several Kofun-era tombs. On the western edge of Myoko lie the ruins of Samegao Castle, a 16th-century fortification built in the Yamashiro style. Wander through the remains of the terraced bailey that was once protected by dry moats and guarded the region against attack from the Takeda clan.
Getting around Myoko
Myoko is around 25 minutes’ drive from Joetsu and just over four hours from Tokyo. Narita International Airport is 4.5 hours away and is connected by train to the Arai and Nihongi railway stations. Buses travel throughout Myoko and connect most of its attractions.