Myoko Activities | Things to do in Myoko

Golf Courses

There are three Myoko golf course in Myoko Kogen (as below) but there are also numerous others very nearby such as Madarao Tokyu, Myoko Sunshine GC and APA Resort (formerly Pine Valley). Most open in April (snow dependent) and usually close by early to mid November. Online bookings are available for many.

Myoko Kogen Golf Course

Myoko Kogen Golf Course is one of the most popular Myoko golf courses, offering wide fairways, cool alpine conditions, and beautiful views of Mount Myoko. Ideal for golfers of all levels, the course features well-kept greens, forest-lined holes, and easy access from Akakura Onsen. Visitors enjoy a peaceful highland setting, quality facilities, and convenient rentals. It’s a top choice for travellers searching for Myoko golf options during summer, combining a relaxed round with nearby hot springs and outdoor activities.

Myoko Country Club

Myoko Country Club is a standout Myoko golf destination, known for open fairways, rolling terrain, and scenic mountain views. Its layout suits both improving players and confident golfers, making it a reliable option for anyone exploring golf courses in Myoko. The club provides rental sets, practice greens, and a friendly clubhouse for meals after the round. Close to Myoko’s resort villages and natural attractions, it’s a great choice for travellers wanting accessible alpine golf in the Myoko Kogen region.

Akakura Golf Course

Akakura Golf Course offers a relaxed Myoko golf experience with scenic views of Mount Myoko and forested highland terrain. The course layout appeals to casual golfers while keeping advanced players engaged through gentle elevation changes and strategic hazards. Located near Akakura Onsen, it’s ideal for visitors seeking golf courses in Myoko close to hot springs, hiking, and summer attractions. With rental options and a welcoming clubhouse, Akakura Golf Course is a convenient and enjoyable choice for Myoko Kogen holidaymakers.

Sekiyama Shrine

Every year, on the third Saturday of July, a fire festival is held whose tradition stretches back more than 1300 years and is attended by many worshipers. Local young people of traditional dances and bojutsu. Bojutsu is a staff-fighting technique that can be traced back to techniques developed by mountain priests to protect themselves after the armies of Oda Nobunaga attacked Sekiyama and burned down the mountain’s 70 temples and shrines. Ceremonial sumo matches are also held, adding to the lively atmosphere. Alternatively it’s a delightful area to stroll around under the cover of winter snows.

Highlights of Myoko: Japan Snow Monkeys

A must visit if you are in the area during winter. Many tours run out of Nagano City, but there are others available ex Myoko Kogen. There are tour operators that do snow monkey day-trips or private transfers (click here) and these can be combined with other local attractions such as Zenkoji Temple and Togakushi. Peak snow scenes are best December through February. Early March still good. Outside of those months, there may be little snow, and fewer monkeys will bathe in onsen. Morning or early day visits are often better as the snow monkeys sometimes bathe more in the morning and you’ll encounter fewer tourists.

Myoko highlights, Myoko golf courses, Things to do in Myoko, Myoko activities

Things to do in Myoko: Mountain Treks

The Joetsu-Myoko area has countless hiking trails featuring forests, lakes, waterfalls and old-growth Japanese beech and birch groves. Hikers of all levels will find a trail perfect for their skill and interests.

Myoko Highlights: Nojiri Lake

Lake Nojiri, located across the prefectural border from Myoko Kogen, offers the perfect summer escape for lovers of the great outdoors. Nojiri Lake is an ancient glacial lake – Nagano’s second largest. It has an old-fashioned rustic charm and pace and is quite affordable for family visits.

Myoko highlights, Myoko golf courses, Things to do in Myoko, Myoko activities

Myoko Activities: Naena-Taki Waterfalls

The Naena-Taki Waterfalls is fed by the Sekikawa river, which forms the border between Niigata and Nagano Prefectures. Plummeting from columnar joints of basalt rock and splashing with great effect into the pool below, the power and dynamism of Naena-Taki have caused it to be named one of Japan’s 100 best waterfalls. It is especially magnificent in spring and autumn. Snowshoe tours to the falls can be arranged during winter.

Things to do in Myoko: Joetsu-Myoko Luxury Train

The Echigo Tokimeki Resort Setsugekka train offers fantastic sightseeing train rides in the Joetsu-Myoko/Itoigawa region. There is enough room on board to accommodate 45 seated passengers while it journeys through JoetsuMyoko Station, Itoigawa Station, and Myoko-Kogen Station for a total of three hours. In the first car, travellers can take in the superb views while lounging in high-spec chairs and sofas, all facing the stunning mountain and ocean scenery outside of the huge windows. Materials used for the interiors have been sourced locally as much as possible, with the timber coming from Niigata Prefecture, as well as Kawara tile, which is native to the region. The second carriage has been set up as a French restaurant, with delicious meals served up to accompany the vistas.

Setsugekka operates two times a day, in the morning and in the afternoon, only on weekends. The seats are limited, and the train is often fully booked for months. Ask your hotel well in advance to book you a seat. Go to the website here (JP only) or see a trip journal here.

Things to do in Myoko: Myoko Farmers Market

The ‘Tomato’ Farmers Market in Myoko Sekiyama is a vibrant destination for local produce, artisanal goods, and seasonal specialties. Located near Myoko’s resort villages, it offers fresh fruits, vegetables, handmade crafts, and regional delicacies directly from local farmers. Visitors can explore a variety of stalls while enjoying the friendly alpine atmosphere. It’s a perfect stop for food lovers, families, and travellers seeking authentic Myoko experiences. Open regularly, the market also hosts occasional events showcasing local culture. Whether you’re picking up fresh ingredients, tasting specialty treats, or discovering unique souvenirs, the Farmers Market Myoko is a must-visit for an authentic local experience. There is an additional market further down the hill opposite the Myoko Arai Road Station.

Things to do in Myoko: Mountain Biking Myoko

Myoko is a great destination for mountain biking, offering trails that wind through lush forests, alpine meadows, and rugged volcanic terrain. Alpenblick Ikenotaira Onsen offers a variety of courses in the green season with spectacular views of Lake Nojiri and Mount Myoko in the background.

Riders of all levels can enjoy scenic single tracks in the local area, downhill runs, and cross-country routes that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Summer lifts at other nearby resorts often provide bike transport, making higher-altitude descents easily accessible. Local guides and rental shops are available. After a day on the trails, bikers can relax in Myoko’s hot springs or enjoy regional cuisine. Myoko mountain biking combines adventure, stunning scenery, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Things to do in Myoko: Kids Activities

Coming soon!