Norikura, or Norikura-dake (乗鞍岳) is Japan’s highest paved road, peaking at about 2,700 meters.

So it was my birthday weekend, and what better way to celebrate than to ride up Mt Norikura… twice..

Mt Norikura is located on the border between Gifu prefecture and Nagano prefecture. Both of these prefectures are famous for being mountain country. The main road goes from one prefecture to the other, so you are able to climb both sides of the mountain.

One of the best parts of cycling up Mt Norikura is that there are almost no cars on the entire climb. There are shuttle buses spaced out every once in a while, but other than that, no cars, which is great.

The more popular route starts from Nagano prefecture, and it is a nice smooth and steady ride all the way to the top, with a bunch of beautiful switchbacks.

The gang made it safely up the Nagano side and took a mandatory group shot at the mountain peak sign. Left to right: Sean, Bradley, Cruise, Max

The peak’s rest area elevation is about 2,700 meters.

We the proceeded to descend down the Gifu prefecture side and ride back up.

It may have just been because I was tired from the first climb, but I felt that the Gifu side of the climb was way way way harder than the Nagano side. It is not as smooth of a gradient and features some very steep sections, so definitely not recommended for the faint of heart.

Nothing a little trip to the onsen (温泉) hot spring can’t fix.

Grabbing some snacks on the road back home.

I didn’t take many photos from this ride, but thankfully Bradley documented the entire ride on his YouTube channel. Be sure to check it out!

Link to today’s ride on Strava
https://www.strava.com/activities/699788439/segments/17162112551