The highest natinal road point in Japan. 2,172 m of altitude. Does it speak to you? This is one of the most famous hill climb routes among the Japanese cycling enthousiastes. The best season to attack this challenging climb is from late April to beginning of May, where you may be able to go through the snow walls. The route starts from Sun Valley Parking. You can get a certificate of arriving to the highest national road at the Shibu Toge Hotel at the top of the climb for reasonable 1,000 Japanese Yen if you would like to bring back a souvenir.
If you look for longer distance, you can start from Nagano Station and combine the route with Nagano to Snow Monkey Park.
In late Summer, very popular Shiga Kogen Hill Climb race attracts many cyclists as well.