What is the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway?
The Shin-Hotaka Ropeway is a sightseeing ropeway in the Northern Alps area of Gifu Prefecture, Japan, notable for being the only ropeway in the country with a two-story gondola.
It rises rapidly from an elevation of 1,117 meters to 2,156 meters, allowing visitors to feel the grandeur of the Northern Alps up close.
The ropeway operates year-round, offering different views each time you visit: fresh greenery in spring, crisp air in summer, colorful leaves in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter.
The view from the summit is breathtaking, making it a popular attraction for both domestic and international travelers.
Features of the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway
1. Japan’s only two-story gondola
The biggest attraction of the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway is its two-story gondola.
From the spacious cabin you can enjoy panoramic views in every direction.
The upper deck in particular offers glass-framed, close-up views of the mountains, making it ideal for photography.
2. Summit observation deck “AlpScape (アルプスケープ)”
“AlpScape (アルプスケープ)” at the summit station is an observation deck at 2,156 meters above sea level.
On clear days you can take in sweeping views of the great peaks of the Northern Alps, including Mount Hotaka.
Experience the power and beauty of nature at this special spot.
3. Nature through the four seasons
The Shin-Hotaka Ropeway offers different scenery throughout the year.
- Spring: As the snow melts, fresh green foliage stands out.
- Summer: Enjoy the cool highland air — it’s a great place to escape the heat.
- Autumn: The mountains are painted with vivid autumn colors, creating picture-perfect landscapes.
- Winter: Snow-covered peaks feel like another world. You can also combine a visit with winter sports.
How to get there
Access by public transportation
- Get off at Takayama Station on the JR Takayama Line.
- Take a bus bound for the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway from the Takayama Nohi Bus Center — about 1.5 hours.
- Get off at the final stop, “Shin-Hotaka Ropeway” bus stop.
Access by car
- From Nagoya
- Take the Meishin Expressway to Ichinomiya JCT, then use the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway, passing through Takayama city.
- Follow Route 158 and Route 471 to the ropeway parking area. Travel time is about 3 hours.
- From Tokyo
- From the Chuo Expressway take the Matsumoto IC and follow Route 158. Travel time is about 3.5 hours.
Parking costs about ¥600 for approximately 6 hours.
How to enjoy the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway
1. Panoramic views from the gondola
Just riding the ropeway takes you up more than 1,000 meters in elevation, allowing you to fully enjoy the majestic natural scenery.
Ride times are approximately 5 minutes for the first ropeway and about 7 minutes for the second ropeway.
2. Summit walking courses
There are easy walking trails around the summit station where you can casually enjoy the Northern Alps’ great outdoors.
In winter, guided snowshoe tours across the snowfields are also offered.
3. Local food and souvenirs
At the summit station and the ropeway boarding area there are shops where you can enjoy Gifu specialties and dishes made with local ingredients.
Popular items include Hida beef croquettes and sansai soba (mountain vegetable soba). For souvenirs, Hida region specialties and ropeway-limited goods are recommended.
Useful information for travelers
- Operating hours
- Ropeway 1: 8:30–16:00 (varies by season)
- Ropeway 2: 8:45–16:15 (varies by season)
- Fares
- Round trip (Ropeways 1 & 2 connected): Adults ¥3,300–¥3,700 / Children ¥1,650–¥1,850 (seasonal rates).
- Round trip (Ropeway 2 only): Adults ¥3,200–¥3,600 / Children ¥1,600–¥1,800.
- Clothing and items to bring
- Temperatures at the summit are low, so bring warm clothing even in summer.
- Wear comfortable, easy-to-walk-in shoes for walks.
- Best time to visit
- Autumn foliage season (late September to mid-October) is especially popular, but winter snow scenes are also well worth seeing.
Summary
The Shin-Hotaka Ropeway is a wonderful destination that makes it easy to enjoy spectacular views of the Japanese Alps.
Its attractions include not only the natural beauty across the four seasons but also Japan’s only two-story gondola and the summit’s panoramic viewpoints.
It’s an experience that will surely impress international travelers as well.
When planning your trip, check the weather and crowd conditions before you go.
For a memorable trip enjoying the nature of Gifu Prefecture, be sure to visit the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is the ropeway operational in winter?
Yes. The ropeway operates in winter, but services may be suspended depending on weather conditions.
Check the official website for the latest information.
Q2. Are there restaurants at the summit?
Yes. There is a café at the summit station where you can enjoy light meals and hot drinks.
It’s especially nice to use on cold days.
Q3. Is there English information available?
There are English signs at the stations and inside the ropeway.
Some staff can also assist in English.
Enjoy Japan’s magnificent nature and unique experiences at the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway!
