What makes the Tsugaru Iwaki Skyline famous?
Japan, asia
10 km
441 m
hard
Year-round
Ready for a wild ride in northern Japan? The Tsugaru Iwaki Skyline, near Hirosaki city in Aomori Prefecture, is calling your name! This paved beauty, open from mid-April to late October, is famed for one thing: hairpin turns. 69 of them, to be exact! Starting from Ajigasawa Highway at the base of Mount Iwaki, you'll climb 806 meters over 9.3 km (5.77 miles) to the eighth station, sitting pretty at 1,247 meters (4,091 feet). The average gradient is 8.66%, but get ready for some seriously steep 10% sections. Ditch the bike, though—cyclists aren't allowed.
While you can't drive all the way to the 1,625 meters (5,331 feet) summit (a lift will take you the rest of the way), the views from the eighth station are totally worth it. Think breathtaking 360-degree panoramas. Feeling adventurous? Hike from the eighth station to the summit, and don't miss the 90-year-old beech forest near the 3rd station. Just be sure to hit the road between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., as it closes at 5:00 p.m.!
Road Details
- Country
- Japan
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 10 km
- Max Elevation
- 441 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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