Hello, this is _hiroyuki.ta. This time, I would like to introduce the Yamanashi Prefecture Daibosatsu Line, which I toured by motorcycle from central Tokyo. The Daibosatsu Line, commonly known as National Route 411, is a approximately 40km road that connects Hokuto City and Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. This road was named because it crosses the Great Bodhisattva Pass. The Daibodhisattva Line is a popular spot for motorcyclists due to its rich natural scenery and easy-to-ride road with many curves. This time, we will tell you about its charm in detail.
The Daibosatsu Line, commonly known as National Route 411, is a approximately 40km road that connects Hokuto City and Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. This road was named because it crosses the Great Bodhisattva Pass. Daibosatsu Pass is a pass with an altitude of 1,414m and has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Passes. From this pass, you can see spectacular views of the Southern Alps and Mt. Fuji. Also, at Daibosatsu Pass, there is Daibosatsudo Hall, which is said to be the oldest wooden building in Japan. This hall was built during the Heian period and is designated as a national treasure. The Dai Bodhisattva Hall houses precious Buddhist statues such as the Eleven-faced Kannon statue and the Twelve Generals statue.
Route to the Great Bodhisattva Line
This time, I went on a motorcycle tour from central Tokyo. I set off on my beloved Harley-Davidson FLSB Sport Glide. First, I headed from Kamei Bridge to Ginza via Kobikicho Street. From there, I took the Shuto Expressway’s Inner Loop Line. I drove on the Shuto Expressway Inner Loop Line and transferred to the Shuto Expressway No. 4 Shinjuku Line at Miyakezaka JCT. I took the Shuto Expressway No. 4 Shinjuku Line and entered the Chuo Expressway. I took the Chuo Expressway and exited at Katsunuma IC. From Katsunuma IC, we passed through the Katsunuma Bypass and Fruit Line to arrive at Enoyama Kamihagiwara. From there, we turned right onto the Great Bodhisattva Line.
As soon as you enter the Mahabodhisattva Line, you will be overwhelmed by the view of the mountains and valleys that spread out in front of you. The road has many curves and many ups and downs, but it is a fun road for bikers. Especially in spring and autumn, you can see beautiful scenery such as cherry blossoms and autumn leaves. In winter, you can enjoy the snowy scenery, but you need to be careful about freezing and snowfall.
There are several sights to see along the Great Bodhisattva Line. Our first stop is Daibosatsu Pass, which is about 7km from Enzan Kamihagiwara. From here, you can see spectacular views of the Southern Alps and Mt. Fuji. You can also visit the Great Bodhisattva Hall. Daibosatsudo Hall is a national treasure and is considered to be the oldest wooden building in Japan. Precious Buddhist statues such as the Eleven-faced Kannon statue and the Twelve Generals statue are enshrined here.
Next is Hakushu Plateau, located about 10km from Daibosatsu Pass. This is a highland rich in nature with ranches and wineries. Here you can enjoy specialty products such as dairy products and wine. Hakushu Highlands is also home to the Suntory Hakushu Distillery, known as Japan’s first whiskey factory. Here you can learn about the whiskey manufacturing process and history. Suntory Hakushu Distillery is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free.
Finally, Kamishimori, Koshu City, located about 10km from Hakushu Highlands. This is the end of the Great Bodhisattva line. Here you can head to the center of Koshu city. Koshu City is famous for producing grapes and wine. Here you can enjoy things like grape picking and wine tasting. Koshu City also has historical sites and cultural properties related to Takeda Shingen. If you are interested in history and culture, please visit this place.
Great Bodhisattva Line motorcycle parking lot
There are several motorcycle parking lots on the Mahabodhisattva Line. Some of them are introduced below.
Lake Daibosatsu north shore parking lot (parking lot 4): This is a free motorcycle parking lot located at Daibosatsu Pass. There is space for approximately 20 cars.
Summary
This time, I introduced the Yamanashi Prefecture Daibosatsu Line, which I toured by motorcycle from central Tokyo. The Daibodhisattva Line is a popular spot for motorcyclists due to its rich natural scenery and easy-to-ride road with many curves. There are also other attractions such as Daibosatsu Pass and Hakushu Plateau. You can also enjoy local specialties and historical culture. Please come and visit us at least once.
