Metasequoia Avenue

Spectacular Tree-Lined Road Colored by Four Seasons

The tree-lined road in Makino-cho, Takashima City, features about 500 metasequoias extending approximately 2.4km in a straight line. It began in 1981 when the local fruit growers' association planted the trees as part of a rural development project. In 1994 it was selected among the Yomiuri Shimbun's New Top 100 Japanese Street Trees, making it a famous scenic spot representing Shiga.

Autumn Foliage

From mid-November to early December, the metasequoias turn red and orange, wrapping the entire avenue in blazing beauty. When fallen leaves cover the road, both overhead and underfoot are dyed red. This most colorful period draws many photographers and tourists from across the country.

Winter Snow Scene

When snow falls, the avenue transforms into a fantastical silver world. The rows of snow-covered metasequoias are described as a silver tunnel of breathtaking beauty. In the clear winter air, the quiet snowy avenue leads visitors into an extraordinary scene.

Surrounding Activities

Makino Picland adjacent to the avenue offers seasonal fruit picking and agricultural experiences. With a nearby ski slope and beautiful Lake Biwa beaches, the area offers activities enjoyable through all four seasons, from lake swimming in summer to winter sports.

Access and Basics

• Location: Makino-cho, Takashima City, Shiga (along the prefectural road running through Makino Picland)
• Public transport: about 6 minutes by community bus from JR Kosei Line Makino Station to the avenue entrance. Service is limited, so check the timetable in advance
• By car: about 30 minutes from the Kinomoto interchange on the Hokuriku Expressway. Free parking at Makino Picland
• Viewing: the avenue itself is open year-round. Traffic may be restricted during events such as illuminations

Practical Travel Notes

• Best seasons: peak foliage is mid-November to early December. The fresh green of April to May and the snow scenery of January to February are also spectacular
• Best time of day: front light during the day is photogenic, but early morning is quieter for relaxed photography and strolling
• Avoiding crowds: parking and roads are very congested on peak-foliage weekends. Weekdays and mornings are more relaxed
• Time needed: about 30 minutes to an hour for a round-trip walk along the avenue, or about half a day including a rest or fruit picking at Makino Picland
• Nearby real spots: Makino Kogen highland, Kaizu Osaki (a famous spring cherry blossom site), and Lake Biwa beaches

A Word of Advice

The avenue also serves as a local road, so watch for traffic and avoid standing in the middle of the road when taking photos. The scenery changes greatly with the season and weather, so choose your visit timing to match the view you hope to see. Prepare for cold and rain, and enjoy the seasonal scenery to the fullest.

📚 Sources

This article was edited with reference to tourism guidance for Makino in Takashima City, home of the metasequoia avenue, and information published by the adjacent Makino Pick Land. Published information was consulted for the avenue selection among the New 100 Notable Tree-Lined Streets of Japan by the Yomiuri Shimbun. The timetable of the community bus from Makino Station to the avenue and the operating details of Makino Pick Land may change, so please check official information before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Suggested route: Enjoy the roughly 2.4-kilometer avenue by walking and viewing it, using Makino Pick Land as a starting point.
• Access: The community bus from Makino Station is limited in frequency, so check the timetable in advance.
• Parking: By car you can use the free parking at Makino Pick Land.
• Best time of day: The autumn foliage season is crowded, so quieter times are more comfortable for a leisurely view.
• Nearby: The adjacent Makino Pick Land offers seasonal fruit picking and farm experiences.
• Best season: The autumn colors from mid-November to early December and the snow-covered winter scenery are especially splendid.