Access/Facilities

Norogawa-Hirogawara Information Center is located in a mountain hiking base in the northern part of the Minami Alps, and looks out on natural landmarks ranging from Hakuho Valley to Mt. Kitadake. It offers a relaxing space where visitors can view exhibits regarding the Minami Alps and mountain-related books and maps. The center also serves as a traffic center, featuring bus and taxi departure and arrival platforms. Its facilities are environmentally friendly and include solar systems, ozone decomposition treatment toilets, and pellet stoves.

Minami Alps Shizen Fureai Center (Southern Alps Nature Experience Center) is located adjacent to Sawarajima Lodge, a lodging facility for mountain climbers exploring the Minami Alps. The center features natural material exhibits including mountain photographs, provides mountain-hiking directions for guests of the Sawarajima Lodge, and organizes nature observation group classes. It also serves a valuable function as an evacuation and rescue base.

The Minami Alps Ashiyasu Mountain Museum is involved in the excavation, research and preservation of mountain-related cultural artifacts. It aims to disseminate information regarding nature protection and mountain climbing safety practices, and act as an intermediary for a wide range of exchange activities with mountainous areas.
It is located in a Satoyama (community-based forest area) that has developed culture, industry and technology deriving from a lifestyle in high-elevation mountain areas (3000 m), which are home to species that have survived the ice age such as the Callianthemum hondoense and rock ptarmigan. The Ashiyasu area is rich in natural and cultural attractions and the Sangakukan Museum aims to cultivate awareness of these among visitors.