13/05/2026
[This way to Oze! Vol.70: The Four Seasons of Oze]
Oze is the largest high-altitude marshland on the main island of Honshu, located at an elevation of around 1,400 meters. Because cold air tends to accumulate, spring arrives late, summers are short, and autumn arrives early and deepens quickly. Another characteristic is that seasonal changes are often signaled more by changes in plant life than by temperature. In addition to conveying the sense of the four seasons, we would also like to provide guidance on appropriate clothing, keeping in mind the mountain climate.
In Oze, spring extends from early May through June. Temperatures can drop to as low as -5°C in the mornings and evenings, so it is advisable to wear long-sleeved wool clothing, as well as lightweight down jackets, and windproof and waterproof outerwear and pants. This is also the season when snowmelt becomes active, boardwalks are often wet from melting snow, and strong winds are common. Even when it feels like spring in urban areas, we recommend being well prepared for the cold in Oze, as it is still winter there. At Katashina Village, the gateway to Oze, the Hariyama Tennozakura (cherry tree)—designated as a Natural Monument of Gunma Prefecture—blooms in full glory. So renowned is this cherry tree that photographers from across Japan gather to capture its beauty. This year, due to light snowfall and higher temperatures around March, it reached full bloom earlier than usual on April 19. Typically, however, the best viewing period is from late April to early May. During the illumination held from sunset until 9:00 p.m. near peak bloom, the blossoms reveal a different, enchanting appearance from that seen during the day, delighting visitors.
From July to mid-August, Oze enters summer, the peak season for alpine plants. Daytime temperatures range from about 15°C to 25°C, while mornings and evenings can drop to around 10°C. This is also a time when thunderstorms are likely to occur in the afternoons. For clothing, it is recommended to wear lightweight long-sleeved shirts, long pants, light fleeces, and hats. Don’t forget protection against UV rays and insects as well. During this season, many rare alpine flowers bloom, including daylilies (Nikkōkisuge), Kinkōka, and, on Mt. Shibutsu—one of Japan’s 100 famous mountains—plants such as Ozesō and Hosoba Hina-usuyukisō, a relative of edelweiss. Depending on the progress of the snowmelt, hiking is expected to be possible from June 20 this year.
From late August to mid-October, Oze enters autumn. While intense heat may still persist in urban areas, temperatures in Oze drop to around 0–5°C in the mornings and evenings, and frost is not uncommon. During this season, it is reassuring to have warm clothing such as long sleeves and fleeces. As temperatures begin to fall, the marshlands transform into a golden landscape of kusamomiji (autumn foliage of grasses), resembling a sea of ripened rice fields.
From November to early April, Oze is in winter, and general tourism is not possible. Oze is also known as a region of heavy snowfall and becomes a full-fledged snow-covered mountain area during this time.
Oze is like a walking museum of nature. It is a place full of charm for those who love mountains, nature, flowers, or simply wish to refresh themselves. With convenient access from urban areas, why not take the opportunity to visit Oze?
For more information about Oze, visit TEPCO Renewable Power website!
【Oze & TEPCO】 https://www.tepco.co.jp/rp/oze/