Sacred Alpine Vista
Hotaka, nestled in Azumino at the foot of the Northern Alps, offers a harmonious blend of spiritual heritage, art, and natural beauty. Hotaka Shrine, a revered Shinto site, is set within a sacred forest and is associated with the sea god Watatsumi, reflecting the Azumi people's maritime origins. Nearby, the Rokuzan Art Museum showcases the works of sculptor Morie Ogiwara, known as "Japan’s Rodin," within a charming ivy-clad building. The Chihiro Art Museum Azumino, surrounded by expansive gardens, celebrates the delicate illustrations of Chihiro Iwasaki and houses a vast collection of picture books from around the world. For nature enthusiasts, the Alps Azumino National Government Park in the Horigane and Hotaka region offers seasonal flower displays against the backdrop of the Japanese Alps. Additionally, the Seven-Colored Giant Maple in Omine Kogen is renowned for its foliage that transitions through seven hues over a month, providing a unique autumnal spectacle
