RENT & RIDE JAPANKashi Pass & Shirakawa Highland (Oshu / Aizu Kaido)
Kashi Pass & Shirakawa Highland Ride
A long autumn day ride from Hachioji up the Tohoku Expressway, through the Kashi Tunnel into the Kashi Highland, mixing sweeping mountain curves with the historic atmosphere of the ancient Shirakawa Barrier.
- DISTANCE
- 380 km
- DURATION
- 12 h
- LEVEL
- Intermediate
This is a riding-focused long-distance day trip: blast north on the Tohoku Expressway, then carve the Kashi Road (National Route 289) linking Minami-Aizu and Shirakawa. Once impassable to cars, the Kashi Pass was reborn as a smooth highland route when the Kashi Tunnel opened, giving you exhilarating curves with the Nasu mountains at your back before you reach the historic gateway to the north country.
Highlights
- Kashi Road (Route 289): elevation-rich highland winding centered on the Kashi Tunnel.
- Kashi Onsen: a secluded single-inn hot spring at the old trailhead, great for a footbath or day soak.
- Site of the Shirakawa Barrier: one of the three ancient barriers of the north, a poetic place crossed by the poet Basho.
- Tora Shokudo: the pioneering shop of Shirakawa ramen for lunch.
Notes
Because the round trip from Hachioji is long, plan an early start and rely on the expressway. Watch for occasional construction restrictions around the Kashi Tunnel and winter road icing; check Fukushima Prefecture road information before you go.
- 1START
Tashilog Garage
Start point. Head from Hachioji IC via the Chuo/Ken-O Expressways toward the Tohoku Expressway.
TIPSStart early because of the long distance. Fill up and check tire pressure before departure.
- 2VIEW~15 min
Kashi Tunnel
The main tunnel of the Kashi Road (Route 289) linking Shirakawa with Minami-Aizu and Shimogo.
HISTORYFor decades Route 289 over the Kashi Pass was impassable to vehicles; the section including the Kashi Tunnel opened in 2008, finally allowing traffic to cross.
TIPSOpen in Google MapsThe approaches are pleasant, elevation-rich curves. Check road info in advance for occasional construction restrictions.
- 3ONSEN~50 min
Kashi Onsen
A secluded single-inn hot spring at the old Kashi Pass trailhead, with a day-use bath and riverside open-air tubs.
TIPSAccessed from the Nishigo side of the Kashi Road. Day-use hours are limited, so please confirm times in advance.
Open in Google Maps
Photo: Duff Figgy / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0 - 4SPOT~25 min
Marugoto Nishigokan
A farm-produce market and local goods hall in Nishigo village at the foot of the Kashi Highland, ideal for a break and local shopping.
TIPSLocal vegetables and dairy products on offer. Handy for a rest stop and close to the Shirakawa IC.
Open in Google Maps
Image - 5FOOD~70 min
Tora Shokudo
The pioneering shop of Shirakawa ramen, famous for hand-pulled noodles and an additive-free broth.
TIPSSignature dishes are the hand-pulled chuka soba and wonton ramen. Open Tue–Fri 11:00–14:30 and 16:00–18:00, shorter lunch on weekends, closed Mondays (sells out when ingredients run out). Expect a queue, so arrive early.
Open in Google Maps
Photo: くろふね / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 - 6SPOT~40 min
Site of the Shirakawa Barrier
One of the three ancient barriers of the north; Shirakawa Shrine sits atop the hill amid old moats and earthworks, a nationally designated historic site.
HISTORYA frontier checkpoint that controlled the movement of people and goods from the Nara to Heian periods. After it lost its function it became a celebrated poetic place, inspiring poets such as Noin, Saigyo, and Matsuo Basho.
TIPSThe forested approach path is quiet and atmospheric. There are stone steps to the shrine, so walk carefully in riding gear.
Open in Google Maps
Photo: dogpochi / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.5 - 7GOAL
Tashilog Garage
Return. Head back to Hachioji from Shirakawa IC via the Tohoku and Ken-O Expressways.
TIPSThe return is a long expressway run. Rest often and dress warmly for cruising after sunset.
