So beautiful! The water is insanely clear, like a sapphire-colored river, and you just can’t stop taking pictures.
The air here is great too, and it’s really peaceful, so it feels super relaxing to walk around〜 It’s perfect for playing in the water in summer, but wow, the water is seriously freezing, so I wouldn’t really recommend fully getting in 😂
There are also a few small bridges and walking paths nearby, so you can take your time strolling around. The photos turn out amazing. Just note that there are quite a lot of bugs, so definitely bring bug spray. It’s also easier to get here by car. Parking is limited, so during busy seasons it’s better to come early.
Overall, it’s absolutely worth visiting. Such a refreshing and healing place ❤️
Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.
Atera Valley
Relax in the refreshing beauty of “Atera Blue.”
4.18
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A valley formed along the Atera River, which rises from Mt. Sunagoya in southwestern Nagano Prefecture. The crystal-clear stream, stretching Approx. 15 km in total, is known for its outstanding transparency. Combined with the sunlight filtering through the surrounding trees, it creates the stunning emerald-green scenery known as “Atera Blue.” The water is so clear that even deep spots can look shallow, and many visitors come from outside the prefecture to see this remarkable view.
On a sunny day after the right conditions come together, you can enjoy especially vivid colors. In spring, fresh greenery brings a crisp feel, summer offers lush, vibrant green, and autumn adds beautiful fall foliage, welcoming visitors with a different look in every season.
The valley is dotted with highlights, including the “Atera Valley Entrance,” the lowest point in the valley and an easy place to stop by at the shallows, “Tanukigafuchi,” where foxes and raccoon dogs are said to have used the water as a mirror to check their disguises, and the retro “Former Forest Railway Bridge.” A 0.6 km promenade runs from “Akahiko Kahi Monument Parking Lot” to “Unari Island,” and the full loop takes Approx. 1 hour.
Highlights
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A valley with a beautiful emerald-green stream known as “Atera Blue.”
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One of Nagano Prefecture’s most spectacular scenic spots, with beauty that changes through the seasons.
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Highlights are scattered throughout the 15 km-long valley.
Photos
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Relax in the beautiful emerald-green waters of “Atera Blue”
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The contrast with the brilliantly colored autumn leaves is also spectacular
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Highlights are scattered throughout the area, including the retro Former Forest Railway Bridge
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Is there free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A
No.
Q
Are there coin lockers?
A
No.
Q
Are there restrooms?
A
Yes.
Reviews
3
Some reviews are AI-translated.
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It’s nice and cool here in summer. You can play in the water, have a picnic, and every photo comes out looking great. The area is fairly clean and the vibe is really relaxing. Getting here is a bit inconvenient, but it’s definitely worth making the trip!
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Atera Valley is seriously gorgeous! The stream is so clear it practically sparkles, and when the sunlight hits it, it turns this beautiful blue-green color. No wonder they call it “Atera Blue.”
Walking along the path by the water feels so refreshing, and it’s especially nice in summer. You can even soak your feet or play in the water. The drive feels a bit deep into the mountains, but once you arrive, it all feels totally worth it!
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 阿寺渓谷
- Postal Code
- 339-5504
- Address
- Inside the national forest, Nojiri, Okuwa Village, Kiso District, Nagano Prefecture
- Phone
- 0264-55-4566 (Okuwa Village Tourism Association)
- Closed on
- Open for free walking year-round
- Hours
- Daytime
- Admission
- Free (forest environment maintenance cooperation fee: Approx. 100 yen per person)
- Access
- Approx. 20 minutes on foot from JR Nojiri Station
- Official website
- Official website (Japanese)
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