Hida Mino Seseragi Kaido
The Seseragi Kaido: A Beautiful Year-Round Drive Between Gujo Hachiman and Hida Takayama
Often called the Hida Seseragi Kaido or simply Seseragi Kaido, this beloved scenic route runs roughly through the center of Gifu Prefecture.
Spanning about 64 km between Gujo Hachiman and Hida Takayama (National Routes 472/257, Prefectural Route 73), it follows the clear Yoshida, Maze, and Kawakami Rivers.
It's celebrated as one of the best driving roads in the Tokai region and is a major draw for motorcycle touring enthusiasts.
Driving or touring is especially pleasant in early summer (June-July), when the forests are vibrantly green and the mountain air feels cool and refreshing.
But the Seseragi Kaido truly shines during the autumn foliage season.
North of Meiho Kogen towards Kiyomi Town, the slopes are covered in deciduous trees like maple, beech, and mizunara oak, which erupt in spectacular colors.
Recognized as one of the "33 Best Autumn Foliage Spots of Hida and Mino," the route's significant elevation change – peaking at Nishiure Pass (1,113 m) with a difference of about 700 meters – allows visitors to enjoy the shifting tapestry of fall colors for nearly a month, usually from late October through late November.
| Location | Hachiman-cho, Gujo, Gifu ~ Meiho, Gujo ~ Kiyomi-cho, Takayama, Gifu, Japan |
|---|---|
| Season | Open year round *Note: Timing for fresh greenery and autumn colors varies with weather conditions. Please check the flowering information in the announcements section on our website's homepage for updates. |
| Driving the Seseragi Kaido in Winter | Driving the Seseragi Kaido in winter requires caution due to snow and ice, which create slippery conditions. The risk is particularly high north of Meiho Okusumi and in the Hida Kiyomi section, where heavy snowfall often leads to accidents and stranded vehicles due to inadequate preparation. Before you travel, always check the latest road conditions and weather forecast. Four-wheel drive vehicles (4WD/AWD) are best suited for snowy or icy roads, and you must equip your vehicle with snow tires or tire chains. Note that if chain regulations are in effect, chains are required even on snow tires. Expect potential snow and ice, requiring careful driving, typically from late November through late March. |
