The Minamiuonuma region of southern Niigata Prefecture is perhaps best known for winter sports, onsen hot springs and the 'koshihikari' variety of rice that is grown in the region (and generally thought to be the best in Japan).  The very distinct seasons reveal different faces of Ishiuchi Maruyama...

Winter
Winter is when the region transforms into a white wonderland.  From December until April, incredible amounts of snow fall in the area.  As well as the popular Ishichi Maruyama ski and snowboard resort, there are over 20 other ski and snowboard resorts in the region - making the area one of the most popular snow resort regions of Japan. 

Spring
Even though you are able to ski and snowboard at some of the resorts in the area into late April and even May, the snow usually disappears from town level in early April.  That's when the "Green Season" officially begins - comfortable temperatures, pretty "new green" mountainsides, sakura cherry blossoms, planting rice....

Summer
Summer is generally hot in Japan, but the Ishiuchi Maruyama region experiences more comfortable conditions.  Summer is a good time for hiking and other outdoor activities. 
  

Autumn/Fall
In autumn the leaves on the trees change color to give us some fantastic multicolour "koyou" views.  It truly is a great time to be in the area - don't forget your camera!  Autumn is also the time when you will see locals busy preparing for the winter season.
 
 

Untoan  
This very interesting temple is located in peaceful surroundings just to the north of the Ishiuchi Maruyama area.  A visit to Untoan is highly recommended if you are in the area.

Tel: 025-782-0520 (Japanese)

   
Kankouji  
This temple, located nearby in Ishiuchi Maruyama, has a 600 year history.

Izumi Museum  
Located just off Route 17, Izumi Museum presents exhibits from Papau New Guinea and also over 160 other countries including a collection of rare masks and dolls.

Tel: 025-783-4500


Iijiyama (1111.8 meters)  
Visible from Ishiuchi Maruyama, this mountain is known by some as the "Fuji-san" of the region.  Hiking courses, including those for beginners, can be found around the mountain area.

Uonuma Skyline  
The road that spans the mountain from Ishiuchi Maruyama to Muikamachi is known as "Uonuma Skyline" and on clear days provides spectacular views of the region.  Due to snow, the road is closed in the winter months.

Daigenta Canyon  
Daigenta Canyon is located in neighbouring Yuzawa Town and is a beautiful area surrounded by spectacular scenery and complete with a peaceful lake and hiking courses.

Shakunage Lake  
Shakunage Lake and the Sagurigawa Dam make for a great drive with spectacular scenery.  There are also many hiking courses in the region.
 
 

Hakkai-san (1778 meters)  
The Hakkai-san ropeway takes you up to 1147 meters and from there you can either take in the views or make your way to the summit for an interesting climb and even more spectacular views.

Makihatayama (1967 meters)  
One of the "100 famous mountains of Japan", Makihata is a beautiful mountain.  If you make your way to the top, you'll be rewarded with amazing views of the surrounding regions.

Joetsu Kokusai Playland  
This popular summer family attraction at Joetsu Kokusai features water slides, a water bobsleigh, "Wild River" and other fun attractions.

Tel: 025-782-1141


Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Resort  
The biggest resort close to the Kanetsu expressway and Joetsu Shinkansen, Ishiuchi Maruyama has courses for everyone from young children to experienced skiers and snowboarders.  Check out the 4 park areas complete with half pipe, superpipe, jump, kicker and more fun attractions.

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