It’s hard not to fall in love with the stunning landscapes you’ll see. Whether you’re a nature lover or a fan of scenic drives like us, the Plateau Road Venus Line is a must-visit destination in Japan. Get ready for a memorable journey that you’ll cherish for a lifetime! 

The Venus Line in Japan (a scenic drive through the heart of Nagano) is by far my favorite road trip in Japan. Here I couldn’t decide where not to stop to take pictures.

In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the Plateau Road Venus Line and explore its many scenic wonders. From stunning views of the surrounding mountains to charming towns and attractions, I’ll cover everything you need to know about this must-see destination. So fasten your seatbelt and get ready for an unforgettable ride!

Plateau Road Venus Line Nagano: Little Background

The Venus Line is a popular attraction in Japan that winds its way through the heart of Nagano. The road is named after the goddess Venus, who is said to have inspired its stunning beauty. Venus Line road stretches for 80 kilometers and climbs to an elevation of 2,172 meters above sea level.

💡Did You Know: The Venus Line is closed during winter due to heavy snowfall? However, it opens again in the spring, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the beautiful landscapes in a different season.

The road was constructed in the 1960s to improve transportation between the towns of Nagano and Gunma. Today, it’s a popular destination for tourists who enjoy the scenic drive by car or bike.

What Makes the Plateau Road Venus Line Beautiful

The road offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including the Northern Japan Alps and the Yatsugatake Mountains. As you drive along the winding roads, you’ll discover charming towns, hot springs, and many other natural awe. Keep an eye out for the famous Kiso horse, a breed native to the region and often seen grazing along the roadside.

Getting There and Around

The Venus Line is accessible by car, bike, or bus, and the best starting point is usually the city of Matsumoto. 

If you’re coming from Tokyo, it’s about two to three hours to Matsumoto.

Once you arrive, several rental car companies (Toyota rent-a-car, Nissan Rent-a-car) are available, or you can take a local bus along the route. Remember that the road can get quite crowded during peak season, so plan accordingly.

The Best Time to Visit the Venus Line

The Plateau Road Venus Line is open from late April to mid-November, and the best time to visit is during the spring and fall (autumn) when the colors are particularly sensational. 

In the spring, you can see the cherry blossoms in full bloom, while in the fall, the changing colors of the leaves create a picturesque landscape.

During the summer months, the road can get quite busy with tourists, but it’s still worth visiting if you can handle the crowds.

💡Did You Know: The Plateau Road Venus Line features over 30 hairpin turns, allowing drivers to test their driving skills while enjoying the breathtaking views. 

Route Map

Click Here or image Below to open map in google maps.

Driving through Nagano Mountains

Here comes the fun part, the Venus Line is an 80-kilometer stretch of road that winds through the Japanese Alps in Nagano Prefecture. As you drive along the road, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Asama and the Yatsugatake Mountains.

If you’re a photography enthusiast like me, don’t forget to charge your camera batteries and watch out for photo opportunities. Learn more about best camera setting to use for Japan Alps. 

The Scenic Viewpoints

There are several scenic viewpoints along the Venus Line, each offering a unique perspective on the landscape. 

One of the most famous viewpoints is the “360-degree Panorama View”. It offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Another great spot is the “Utsukushigahara Open-air Museum,”. Here, you can take a walk through an outdoor sculpture garden while enjoying the scenic views. 

And if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, consider stopping at the “Karasawa Bridge,”. Here you can walk across a suspension bridge while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

💡Notes: The best time to visit the Venus Line for the best scenic view is early morning or late afternoon when the sun is low in the sky and the shadows create a dramatic effect on the mountains and valleys. The changing light also offers excellent opportunities for photography.

Things to Do Along the Way

As you drive along the Venus Line, there are plenty of stops and attractions to explore. Here are some suggestions for things to do along the way:

Exploring Nagano’s Attractions

Nagano is a region steeped in history and culture, with plenty of attractions along the Venus Line. Some of the must-see stops include:

• Shiraito Falls: Located at the foot of Mt. Asama, Shiraito Falls is a stunning waterfall with a drop of over 70 meters. Take a short hike to the viewing platform for an up-close view of the falls.
• Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum: This museum features a collection of over 350 sculptures and artworks set against the beautiful natural scenery of the Venus Line.
• Kurumayama Kogen Sky Park: This park is an excellent spot for a picnic or a hike, with panoramic views of the mountains and valleys below.

💡Did You Know: The road was constructed with a unique drainage system to help prevent landslides during heavy rain.

Cultural Experiences

In addition to the natural wonders, the Venus Line also offers opportunities to immerse in Japanese culture. And not to mention experience the local lifestyle as well. Here are some options:

• Onsen hot springs: Nagano is famous for its hot springs and many onsen resorts along the Venus Line. Take a break from driving and soak in the mineral-rich waters while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
• Local cuisine: Sample some of Nagano’s regional specialties, such as soba noodles, oyaki dumplings, or Shinshu beef.
• Festivals and events: Check the local event calendar. And participate in one of the many festivals or events that take place in Nagano throughout the year.

💡Did You Know: Did you know that Nagano is known as the “Roof of Japan” due to its location in the Japanese Alps and 15 out of 23 of Japan’s 3,000-meter-high mountains are here? It hosted the Winter Olympics in 1998 and is home to some of Japan’s best skiing and snowboarding.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an unforgettable road trip through Japan’s incredible Nagano mountains or Japan Alps, then the Venus Line is the perfect destination for you. 

Start planning your trip today and experience the beauty of this scenic drive for yourself. Remember to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and make memories that will last a lifetime. 

You can visit directly from Tokyo or add a day trip when visiting Nagano, the snow corridor, or Tateyama Alps. Add with any trips to Japan’s Alps you will not regret it.

The Venus Line in Japan is more than just a scenic drive. It’s an experience that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes surrounding you. From the mountain views to the cultural experiences, there’s so much to discover.