Mount Kirigamine

What it is

• A volcano in central Nagano Prefecture within a quasi-national park.
• The highest peak is Mount Kuruma reaching 1,925 meters above sea level.
• The site is considered the birthplace of gliding in Japan.
• Ancient obsidian mining sites here date back to the Jomon period.

What to see

• Three wetlands designated as national natural monuments including Yashimagahara.
• A weather radar station located on the summit of Mount Kuruma.
• Daylilies blooming along a designated walking path.
• The Family Gelande Kirigamine Ski Resort for winter activities.

When to go

• Mid-July to see the daylilies in bloom.
• Winter months to visit the local ski resort.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.