Enjoy a scenic drive on the 17km mountain road and savor the views from the summit parking lot
About this spot
A mountain toll road that ascends 17km from the entrance on the Sekigahara side in Gifu Prefecture to the 9th station of Ibuki Mountain. Upon reaching the summit parking lot at approximately 1,260m elevation, a grand panorama awaits—Lake Biwa and the lowland rice paddies spread out below. Ibuki Mountain, at 1,377m elevation, is Shiga Prefecture's highest peak and one of Japan's 100 famous mountains. In summer, meadows full of flowers such as Filipendula multijuga bloom across the summit area, and the plant community of the summit grassland is designated as a National Natural Monument. While a hiking trail extends from the parking lot to the summit, the views from the parking lot and surrounding shops alone are spectacular enough. The convenience of reaching above the clouds by car makes it perfect for three-generation outings from young children to grandparents as your first stop of the day.
Tips
The entrance gate is about 2km from the Sekigahara IC on the Meishin Expressway. Toll fee is 3,140 yen per regular passenger vehicle (additional passengers at no extra charge), and it typically operates from mid-April through late November only (closed in winter). The temperature at the summit parking lot is nearly 10 degrees Celsius cooler than at the base, so bring a jacket even in summer. With continuous curves, those prone to motion sickness should consider taking anti-nausea medication. The flower meadows are at their best from July to August.
Best time to visit
Approximately 2 hours. Early morning hours are recommended when the air is clear and you may encounter sea clouds
Access & map
Ibuki Mountain Driveway (伊吹山ドライブウェイ)
Model course featuring this spot
Yonehara: Scenic Drive on Ibuki Mountain and the Clear Streams of Samegai-shuku
Shiga
Explore features & model courses
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