Discover the Hidden Emerald World of Kita-Yatsugatake: A Private Journey into a Mystical Forest
See the forest in a whole new way through the world of moss. How much do you really know about moss?
On this private tour, you will take a slow walk through the forests of Kita-Yatsugatake, observing moss up close as it spreads across the forest floor, clings to rocks, and blankets fallen trees. Accompanied by a moss specialist, you will learn not only the names and characteristics of different moss species, but also how people live alongside moss in this mountain environment. After the walk, enjoy a satisfying lunch at a mountain lodge, and take home a special original moss-themed souvenir. By the end of the experience, the way you see the forest will never be the same again.
Experience Highlights
- Explore a lush moss forest on a fully private guided walk
- Learn directly from a local moss expert and mountain lodge owner
- Discover the hidden details of moss through close-up observation
- Enjoy a hearty lunch at a traditional mountain lodge
- Take home an exclusive original “Koke-maru” moss-themed souvenir
This tour is operated with support from the Nagano Prefecture Regional Vitality Development Grant.
Meet your Host
Yudai Yamaura
Third-generation owner of Seitaiso Mountain Lodge and moss guide
Born in Sakuho Town (formerly Yachiho Village), Yudai is the youngest of four siblings and is known for his warm, approachable personality. After graduating high school, he spent eight years working in construction, contributing to infrastructure projects such as seismic reinforcement for bridges and tunnels.
At age 25, he returned home to take over his family’s mountain lodge following his father’s illness. For over a decade, he has continued to run the lodge in the challenging mountain environment while welcoming hikers and visitors.
His deep passion for moss even led him to dye his hair green, earning him the nickname “Koke Ojisan” (the Moss Guy). Through his unique perspective, he shares the beauty of moss and the forests of Kita-Yatsugatake. He is also rethinking what a modern mountain lodge can offer. Supported by his family, he continues to care for both the forest and the lodge, valuing human connections along the way.
Your guide for the tour is Yudai Yamaura, third-generation owner of Seitaiso. As someone who lives and works in the forest every day, he offers a rare and personal introduction to the world of moss. The setting is the moss-rich forest surrounding the lodge.
Over the course of about two hours, you will walk at a relaxed pace through the forest. Along the way, you will closely observe moss underfoot, clinging to rocks, and covering fallen trees. Simple questions like “What kind of moss is this?” or “Why does it grow here?” are answered one by one as you explore the forest.
In addition to scientific knowledge, Yudai also shares his personal experiences living in the forest, including how it has changed over time and what it means to live alongside moss. Through this lens, the forest transforms from a familiar landscape into a deeper, more layered world.
At one point, he quietly points to a faint green glow deep within a rock crevice. “This is luminous moss,” he explains. As you lean in to look, you may catch a glimpse of its subtle glow in the dim light. In that quiet moment, the forest draws everyone into its stillness.
As you begin to notice the tiny moss world beneath your feet, you may find yourself crouching down, adjusting your phone to capture the perfect angle. Within just a few centimeters, an incredible variety of colors and textures reveals itself. Before you know it, you are completely absorbed in the quiet beauty of the forest.
After the tour, return to Seitaiso for a mountain lodge-style lunch. The meal, enjoyed after your forest walk, is both comforting and satisfying. You will also receive an exclusive original “Koke-maru” moss-themed souvenir, allowing you to take a piece of the experience home with you.
Schedule
| Time | Activity | Meals |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 | Meet at Seitaiso ・Orientation ・Introduction by Yudai ・Participant introductions ・Overview of the day | |
| 10:15 | Private Moss Observation Tour A guided walk through the moss forests of Kita-Yatsugatake. Over approximately two hours, you will explore the forest while learning directly from your host. | |
| 12:15 | Lunch at Seitaiso Enjoy lunch and receive your exclusive souvenir. Spend time relaxing and chatting with your host. | Lunch |
Start times can be adjusted to the afternoon upon request.
Travel Details (Terms & Conditions)
| Availability | June to October |
|---|---|
| Price | ¥35,000 per person |
| Included | ・Guided moss tour with Yudai Yamaura ・Lunch at Seitaiso ・Original moss-themed souvenir |
| Location | Seitaiso (15-minute walk from Shirakoma Pond paid parking area) Meruhen Kaido, Sakuho Town, Nagano Prefecture Google Maps |
| Access | From JR Chuo Line Chino Station: Bus to Mugikusa Pass, then a 30-minute walk From Hokuriku Shinkansen Sakudaira Station: Bus to Shirakoma Pond Entrance By car: Drive to Shirakoma Pond paid parking area Please check seasonal bus schedules in advance. |
| Minimum Participants | Minimum: 2 guest Maximum: 6 guests |
| Clothing | Comfortable walking clothes and sneakers |
| What to Bring | No special items required |
| Cancellation Policy | ・14 days before the experience: 20% of the total fee ・10 days before the experience: 50% of the total fee ・Same-day cancellation or no-show: 100% of the total fee |
| Booking Deadline | 7 days in advance |
| Payment Methods | Credit card (VISA, MasterCard) Detailed payment instructions will be sent by email after your reservation is confirmed. |
| Additional Notes | Start times can be arranged for the afternoon upon request. |
