Key Facts
• Perennial snow at Mount Arasawa’s midsection, “Naka-Arasawa,” remains even in summer.
• Located in Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, at an altitude of 1,969 meters.
• Accessible via a 40-minute walk from Ginzan-daira Campground trailhead.
• Known as “Japan’s easiest perennial snow to reach.”
• Snowfields expanded this year due to heavy snowfall.
• Visitors can hear water flowing beneath the snow at over 1,000 meters elevation.
• Open until late October, as per guide Toshikazu Oguma (78).
• Entry hours: 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM; closed during rain.
• Entry fees: ¥200 for middle schoolers and above, ¥100 for elementary students.
• Visitors are warned against walking on or entering under the snow due to collapse risks.
• Contact Ginzan-daira Campground at 025-795-2448 for inquiries.
Summary
The perennial snow at Mount Arasawa’s midsection, “Naka-Arasawa,” offers a unique summer experience in Uonuma City, Niigata Prefecture. Accessible via a 40-minute hike from Ginzan-daira Campground, it is celebrated as Japan’s easiest perennial snow to reach. This year, heavy snowfall has expanded the snowfields, creating a cool environment where visitors can hear water flowing beneath the snow. Open until late October, the site provides a refreshing escape and a chance to enjoy rich plant life. However, visitors are cautioned against walking on or entering under the snow due to potential collapse risks. Entry is available from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM, with fees of ¥200 for middle schoolers and above, and ¥100 for elementary students. For more information, contact Ginzan-daira Campground at 025-795-2448.
