The Shinhotaka Ropeway is a unique attraction in Japan known for its impressive elevation gain and double-decker gondola cars. It ascends more than 1000 meters up the Hotake Mountain Range, which includes Oku-Hotakedake, the country's third highest peak. The ropeway offers breathtaking views of the Okuhida Region.

The ropeway consists of two sections. The first is a short climb of 200 meters on a single-story ropeway from the bus stop to Nabedaira Kogen. At Nabedaira Kogen, visitors can explore the Shinhotaka Visitors Center, enjoy a public bath, dine at restaurants, browse a gift shop, view a small art gallery, access hiking trails, and board the double-decker ropeway. While Nabedaira Kogen can also be reached by car, there is no bus service available.From Nabedaira Kogen, the double-decker ropeway continues its ascent, covering over 800 meters to reach the upper station at an altitude of around 2150 meters. The upper station features a restaurant, gift shop, and an observation deck that provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

During the snow-free season, typically from late June to September, the upper station serves as the starting point for a hiking trail further into the mountains. The trail initially ascends for approximately 90 minutes to reach the Nishiho mountain hut. From there, experienced and well-equipped mountain climbers can choose to descend to Kamikochi , or continue climbing to the peaks of Nishi-Hotakadake and Oku-Hotakadake. It's important to note that the trail beyond Nishi-Hotakadake is hazardous and should only be attempted by experienced climbers with proper equipment. The other trails in the area are also challenging and require appropriate hiking shoes and preparation.

Shinhotaka Ropeway Hours and Fares

• 8:30 to 16:45 (April to November), 9:00 to 16:15 (December to March). Longer hours in August and on weekends and holidays in October.
• From the bottom: 3300 yen (roundtrip), 1900 yen (one way).From Nabedaira Kogen: 3200 yen (roundtrip), 1800 yen (one way).

How to get to Shinhotaka Ropeway

The lower station of the Shinhotaka Ropeway is connected by direct hourly buses to Hirayu Onsen (35-45 minutes, 910 yen one way) and Takayama Station (90 minutes, 2200 yen one way). Get off at the final stop, Shinhotaka Ropeway. Paid parking is available at both the ropeway's lower station and at the Nabedaira Kogen Station, but buses serve only the lower station.