Nishi Azuma Sky Valley

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Nishi Azuma Sky Valley

A scenic route where you can enjoy the rich natural beauty of Tohoku.

4.07 2

Last update :
Head Editor : Urabandai Tourism

Located between the northern shore of Lake Hibara in Ura-Bandai, Fukushima Prefecture, and the famous hot springs of Shirabu Onsen in Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture, this approximately 17.8 km tourist road runs through the mountains of Tohoku, surrounded by lush natural beauty, providing a thrilling and scenic driving experience. The autumn foliage along this road is particularly stunning, with a tapestry of red, yellow, and deep green creating picturesque landscapes that unfold beyond the car windows.

The route crosses a mountain pass, so drivers will encounter a series of hairpin curves that require careful attention. On the south side of Shirabu Pass, there is a famous spot known as "Higashi Hachiyama Nanamagari" (Seven Curves of East Hachiyama), where the artistic curves of the road are popular among driving enthusiasts.

There are several observation parking lots along the route, which takes about 45 minutes to travel. From the observatory at Shirabu Pass, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the lush mountains of Ura-Bandai and Lake Hibara below, as well as the distant Iide and Asahi mountain ranges on clear days. There are also observatories where visitors can appreciate the beauty of waterfalls such as "Aka-taki" (Red Waterfall) and "Kuro-taki" (Black Waterfall), as well as the beauty of the ravines. Enjoy a leisurely drive through the rich natural beauty of Tohoku.

Highlights

  • A 17.8 km tourist road that crosses Shirabu Pass.
  • Open from late April to mid-November. Closed during the winter.
  • It can snow around Shirabu Pass just after the road opens or just before it closes, so it is safer to equip your vehicle with snow tires.

Photos

  • Known as one of the best spots for autumn leaves in Tohoku.

    Known as one of the best spots for autumn leaves in Tohoku.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)

A

There is a ignboard in English

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?

A

No free Wi-Fi available.

Q

Are coin lockers available?

A

Not available.

Q

Are there any restrooms available?

A

Yes, restrooms are available at the Shirabu Pass parking lot.

Reviews

2
  • Top Reviewer

    mizuiro_lawson Top Reviewer

    福島県と山形県の県境をまたぐ快適な道路。晴れると最高の景色が広がり、峠付近からは磐梯山や湖を望むことができます!

  • 簡蓉

    這有最大的湖泊,設有營地與小木屋等住宿選擇。裏磐梯亦有許多溫泉度假村哦

Details

Name in Japanese
西吾妻(にしあづま)スカイバレー
Postal Code
966-0501
Address
Hibara, Kitashiobaramura, Yamagun, Fukushima
Telephone
0242-62-3102 (Fukushima Prefecture Inawashiro Civil Engineering Office)
Closed
Always open during the season
* Closed during winter (mid-November to late April), please inquire.
Hours
Open 24 hours.
* Road may be closed at night (17:00pm - 7:00am).
Fees
Roadway is free.
Access
About 30 minutes by car from JR Yonezawa Station
Official Website
Fukushima Guide (English)