A quiet rural landscape frames a straight road lined with 500 metasequoia trees. Known as “Metasequoia Avenue” in Makino Town, Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture, this spot transforms with each season into a breathtaking scene. Fresh spring leaves, vibrant autumn foliage, and snowy winter vistas welcome every visitor with a different charm.

This article introduces access to Metasequoia Avenue, suggested time for a visit, and key Q&A for travelers. Even first-time visitors to Japan or solo travelers will find all the essential information for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Why not walk this road, discovering its unique beauty each season? Here, we deliver moments that will stay with you long after your journey.

Metasequoia Avenue Access Guide

Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews]

By Train

Kyoto Station

• Take the JR Kosei Line Rapid to “Omi-Imazu Station” (about 50 min)
• From Omi-Imazu Station, take the JR Takashima Line bus to “Makino Station” (about 15 min)
• From Makino Station, transfer to the Makino Kogen Line bus and get off at “Makino Pickland” (about 6 min)
• Total travel time: about 1 hr 20 min

Osaka Station

• Take the JR Rapid to “Kyoto Station” (about 30 min)
• From Kyoto Station, take the JR Kosei Line Rapid to “Omi-Imazu Station” (about 50 min)
• From Omi-Imazu Station, take the JR Takashima Line bus to “Makino Station” (about 15 min)
• From Makino Station, transfer to the Makino Kogen Line bus and get off at “Makino Pickland” (about 6 min)
• Total travel time: about 1 hr 50 min

Nagoya Station

• Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to “Maibara Station” (about 30 min)
• From Maibara, take the JR Hokuriku Main Line Rapid via Nagahama to “Makino Station” (about 50 min)
• From Makino Station, transfer to the Makino Kogen Line bus and get off at “Makino Pickland” (about 6 min)
• Total travel time: about 1 hr 30 min

One Point Advice
Buses from Makino Station run only 1–2 times per hour, so checking the bus timetable in advance is recommended for visitors traveling in Japan.

Visitor Information: Hours & Admission

• Hours: Open year-round, free walking access for all visitors to this popular Japanese spot
• Closed: None
• Admission: Free
• Takashima Tourism Official Website

Metasequoia Avenue Highlights & Itinerary

Metasequoia Avenue｜2.4 km Seasonal Road

A straight road lined with about 500 metasequoia trees stretches for 2.4 km, a rare sight in Japan. In spring, soft green shoots appear, in summer the trees form a dense green tunnel, in autumn they turn golden to red, and in winter they are cloaked in snow. Each visit brings a different seasonal landscape worth capturing, making it a popular Japanese photo spot. The wide path makes for an easy stroll, even for solo travelers.

• Time required: 30–40 min
• Admission: Free

Makino Pickland｜Fruit & Farm Experiences

At the heart of the avenue lies “Makino Pickland,” a visitor facility offering seasonal fruit picking, processing workshops, and a café. Stopping here during your walk lets you enjoy local Japanese produce and rest in between. The scenery, where orchards and the tree-lined avenue merge, is also ideal for photography.
Enjoy seasonal fruit picking details on the Makino Pickland Official Website

• Time required: 40–60 min
• Admission: Free entry, but additional fees apply for fruit picking and other activities

Hilltop Viewpoint｜Avenue Scenic Overlook

Instead of only walking the avenue, head up a gentle slope nearby for a bird’s-eye view. The straight line of trees set against distant mountains creates a striking panorama that maps cannot convey. The play of light changes with the season and weather, with mornings and evenings being particularly atmospheric.

• Time required: 20–30 min
• Admission: Free

Metasequoia Avenue｜Nearby & Next-day Plans

On Foot｜Makino Kogen Onsen Sarasa

About a 15-minute walk from the avenue, “Makino Kogen Onsen Sarasa” is a hot spring facility surrounded by trees. Its open-air baths soothe away the fatigue of walking, and light meals with local ingredients make it a worthwhile stop even for a short visit.

Biwako Hakodateyama｜Highland Resort (15 min by car)

About a 15-minute drive from Metasequoia Avenue, “Biwako Hakodateyama” is a highland resort where you can enjoy the beauty of every season. In winter, it is lively as a ski area popular with families and beginners, while from summer to autumn it becomes a scenic spot with panoramic views of Lake Biwa from the mountaintop. A gondola takes you quickly to the summit, where you’ll find an observation deck and a restaurant, offering different charms in each season. It is an ideal stop for travelers who want to refresh themselves in nature.

By Train｜Shirahige Shrine Torii on Lake Biwa

About 20 minutes by train from Makino Station, “Shirahige Shrine” is one of Shiga’s iconic photo spots, known for its torii gate standing in Lake Biwa. Depending on the time of day, the gate reflects on the water, creating a sacred and serene scene. It contrasts beautifully with the natural landscapes of Metasequoia Avenue.

Next Day｜Nagahama Kurokabe Square

About 50 minutes by train from the avenue, Nagahama City’s “Kurokabe Square” features Meiji-era architecture repurposed into glass workshops, retro cafés, and shopping streets. This cultural stroll balances nature with history, enriching the overall experience of a trip to Shiga.
Explore glass art and local crafts on the Kurokabe Square Official Website

Metasequoia Avenue Travel Q&A

What is the best season to visit?

Autumn foliage and snowy winter scenes are most popular in Japan, but fresh greenery in spring and summer is also beautiful.

How long should I plan to stay?

About 30 minutes to 1 hour is enough for a relaxed walk and photo taking.

Are there recommended spots for photography?

The central section of the avenue provides a symmetrical view that captures the beauty of all four seasons.

Is it suitable for children and seniors?

The road is flat and easy to walk, but since it runs beside a roadway in this Japanese countryside, caution is advised.

Any tips for visiting in winter?

Roads may be icy, so warm clothing and non-slip shoes are recommended.

Metasequoia Avenue Summary & Next Steps

Metasequoia Avenue is one of Shiga’s most popular scenic spots in Japan, showcasing seasonal beauty throughout the year. It is free to enjoy, easily accessible by JR and bus, and suitable for both first-time travelers and solo visitors.

The avenue’s changing landscapes—whether autumn foliage or snowy vistas—offer new experiences with each visit, making it a memorable destination.

Next, why not extend your journey to explore the views of Lake Biwa or a stroll through Nagahama’s historic townscape?