A new facility where you can enjoy art amidst a grand panorama at an elevation of 1,300 meters has been completed at Akakura Kanko Resort & Spa in Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture.
The vast natural landscape stretching across Akakura, Myoko City, at an elevation of 1,300 meters. Akakura Village Square, which opened in July, features benches offering panoramic views of Lake Nojiri and Mt. Madarao, alongside artworks created by Tokyo university students that harmonize with nature.
Akakura Kanko Resort & Spa Goto, General Manager
“We considered how to attract visitors to the ski resort during summer. Artists have always visited the Akakura area. We redeveloped the area with the keywords ‘art’ and ‘arts’ to see if we could draw them in.”
Akakura Village Square is a development project that R&M Resort, operator of Akakura Kanko Resort & Spa and other properties, has been advancing for the past three years around the Myoko Sky Cable area. Including the replacement of the gondola, the total renovation cost amounts to approximately 1.8 billion yen. The concept centers on enjoying culture and the arts within nature.
The spacious multipurpose hall, filled with a sense of liberation, was renovated from a lift station that fell into disuse about 20 years ago. It can accommodate up to 130 people and is used as a venue for concerts and workshops.
At the Sky Terrace & Garden café, located just near the gondola’s final stop, you can enjoy cold brew coffee made with spring water from Mt. Myōkō and donuts supervised by the pastry chef of the Akakura Kanko Hotel.
Additionally, a massive panel measuring approximately 16 meters wide was displayed in the gondola departure point, the “Front Lounge,” showcasing the history of Akakura Onsen and sightseeing in Myoko. Visitors can also sit on sofas and watch videos introducing tourist attractions around Akakura.
Akakura Kanko Resort & Spa General Manager Goto
“Having artworks outdoors allows visitors to experience nature with all five senses—touching, seeing, feeling the breeze. It lets them fully enjoy the existing natural environment, not something artificially created. The best time for autumn colors is approaching, so we hope you’ll come visit.”
Akakura Village Square is seeking groups to participate in art exhibitions, concerts, and other events. For details, please contact Akakura Kanko Resort Ski Area.
Myoko Kogen Sky Cable
Address:
Tel: 0255-87-2503
URL: https://akr-sky.com/
