Explore Madarao’s serene, snow-covered forests and frozen landscapes with self-guided snowshoeing trails that offer a refreshing escape from the crowds. Located in northern Nagano Prefecture, Madarao is part of Japan’s legendary Yukiguni (Snow Country) and is known for its deep powder, tranquil woods, and opportunities for shinrin-yoku (forest bathing meditation).
Each winter, two well-marked snowshoe courses open to the public—perfect for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone seeking a short, beginner-friendly, self-guided experience in a peaceful winter setting.
Two Scenic Courses: Rabbit & Squirrel Trails
1. Usagi (rabbit) Course
- Location: Furusato no Mori
- Distance: Approx. 3.0 km
- Estimated Time: 2–3 hours (depending on snow conditions)
Starting just beyond the No. 7 parking lot of Madarao Kogen Ski Resort, this trail briefly follows the ski slopes before veering into a gentle beech forest. In winter, the area transforms into a quiet, snow-draped wonderland with tall trees, soft light, and a calming atmosphere. Trail markers featuring rabbit illustrations are placed roughly every 30 meters on trees to guide you along the loop.
It’s possible to extend the course by about 1 km by adding the Kitsune (Fox) Course, which runs alongside a ski slope before crossing the main road and continuing through a secluded forest. Check in advance to see if this course is currently marked.
With gentle gradients and a peaceful setting, the Usagi Course is ideal for beginners and families looking to reconnect with nature at a relaxed pace. Take your time, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and enjoy the muffled silence that only a snow-covered forest can offer.
2. Risu (squirrel) Course
- Location: Lake Nozomi (Kibōko) Area
- Distance: Approx. 1.7 km
- Estimated Time: Around 1.5 hours
This slightly shorter yet equally scenic trail descends through a peaceful larch forest to the frozen shores of Lake Nozomi. In just 700 meters, you’ll reach the lake—blanketed in snow and only accessible on foot during winter. With snowshoes strapped on, you can walk across its frozen surface and take in the stark, otherworldly beauty of this alpine lake.
You can also follow the Kuma (Bear) course, which adds 500 meters to the descent and continues along the shoreline, offering stunning views.
For a longer adventure, the Kamoshika (serow) course adds around 2 km to the loop, exploring a more remote section of the lake and circling open terrain that serves as tennis courts in summer.
Please note: Trails around Lake Nozomi are not marked, and walking on the frozen lake is at your own risk—especially during low-snow years when ice may be thinner. For safety and navigation, we recommend hiring a local guide if you wish to explore the full 2.5 km lake circuit or connect to nearby trails like Numanohara Marsh or Kenashi peak.
Safety Tips & Trail Conditions
Snowshoe trails in Madarao typically open from mid-January to April, depending on snowfall and weather conditions. Be cautious of areas where underbrush is still exposed or hollow snow may collapse underfoot. After heavy snowfall, some trail markers may become buried—carrying a map is strongly recommended.
Trail maps are available at the Madarao Kogen Mountain House (Yama-no-ie), where friendly staff can give you advice on current trail conditions.
Snowshoe Rentals
Rent snowshoes at La Colina Gear, and enjoy complimentary round-trip transportation from your accommodation in Madarao or Tangram to the trailhead.
- Price: ¥4,000 per set for one day (includes snowshoes and poles)
📞 Contact
📧 Email: gear@lacolinaretreat.jp
Madarao / Myoko Snowshoeing Tour
Experience the magic of winter in Madarao and Myoko on this full or half-day snowshoeing tour. Hike through snow-covered forests and admire stunning mountain and lake views. Discover the beauty of satoyama in winter, explore the vast white spaces of yukiguni, and visit a serene lake or pond, abandoned ski resorts, or waterfalls. No prior experience needed. Book your adventure today!
Togakushi Snowshoeing Tour
Venture deep into the snow-covered forests of northern Nagano, where towering cedar trees whisper ancient secrets and every step crunches through pristine snow. On this unique snowshoe tour in Togakushi, you won’t just walk through a winter wonderland—you’ll journey into the birthplace of Japan’s legendary Togakure-ryu ninjutsu, one of the oldest ninja traditions. Trek past sacred shrines buried in snow, frozen ponds, the occasional curious snow monkey, and through towering cedar forests that have stood for centuries. Whether you're drawn by the mystery of the mountains or the legacy of the ninja, this tour promises a memorable and meaningful experience—less than an hour from Myoko or Madarao.