Shin-Hotaka ropeway (Okuhida)

The Shin-Hotaka ropeway, in the Okuhida hot-spring area, is one of the great natural attractions near Takayama and the only one in Japan with double-decker cabins. In two sections it climbs to a station at more than 2.000 metres of altitude, from where a spectacular panorama of the peaks of the northern Japanese Alps opens up, including the summits of the Hotaka massif. At the top there is a viewpoint, short trails and, depending on the season, snow walls in spring, alpine green in summer and a sea of red leaves in autumn. The round-trip ticket is around 3.500 ¥. It is reached by bus from Takayama or from Hirayu Onsen, so it is worth combining it with a day in the Okuhida hot-spring area. Bring warm clothing at any time of year, as it gets quite cold at the summit even in summer, and comfortable shoes. It is an essential trip for lovers of the mountains and of the views, and one of the best ways to enjoy the alpine nature of the Hida region.