【Cool】Secret Drive! A journey traversing the Crystal Line at an altitude of 1700m in Yamanashi Prefecture

Seeking unseen driving courses, I aimed for the Crystal Line located in the highlands around 1700m in Yamanashi Prefecture. I will report on the unique scenery and refreshing experiences only found at high altitudes.

From the roadside station in Makikō, Yamanashi Prefecture, I entered the forest road

I arrived at the roadside station in Makikō by taking Route 411 from the Tokyo area. The weather was exceptionally nice, with a brilliant contrast between the deep blue sky and the pure white clouds. From here, I drove along National Route 206, aiming for the Crystal Line.

Entering the forest road along National Route 206, I encountered the flow of the Kogawa River and the dam. Right by the road, there was someone who looked like a local resident or a fisherman sitting in front of the dam. This location was already at an altitude of around 1,000 meters, giving off a very pleasant atmosphere. It was a scene where I felt like relaxing and taking it easy.

Arriving at the Koto River Dam, I got attacked by flies, and I also encountered a road closure

I quickly arrived at the Koto River Dam after driving. It's not a large dam, but the refreshing breeze makes it a very pleasant place.

However, as I got out of the car with my camera to take some pictures, I felt pain in my calf and confirmed the presence of flies. I tried to ignore them and headed down to the lakeshore, but they persistently tried to bite me, so I decided to retreat... Flies and black flies are often associated with beautiful streams and watersides, so surely the water quality of this dam is also good.

Although I planned to join the Crystal Line via National Route 140 from the roadside station, that route is currently closed as shown in the image above. From July 1, 2025, it is completely closed for the removal work of the slope collapse area, so please be careful.

By the way, I was able to notice this in advance since it was reflected on Google Maps.

This is a mountain road! To the Crystal Line

Now, this is where the Crystal Line begins. The scenery is already beautiful, and I am very excited about what kind of views are about to unfold.<

The Crystal Line has a narrow road width and uneven surfaces, giving it a distinct mountain road feel. It somehow reminds me of the Okumusashi Green Line in Saitama Prefecture. Once I entered the area surrounded by trees, a refreshing breeze flowed, which felt very pleasant. At this point, the elevation seemed to be about 1500 meters.<

I stopped by the Otome Kogen parking area along the way. It appeared to have a cute scale compared to the large plateaus like those in Nagano. However, I could see typical plateau plants and many insects, which evoked a peaceful atmosphere.

Amidst this, I was reminded of the fear of horseflies today, so I quickly took some photos and hurried on.

Along the way, there were scenic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding mountains. The varying landscapes were very enjoyable while running.

What I want to note is that there are drainage grates and their step differences everywhere. With my Jimny, which has a not-so-great suspension, I feel quite a jolt if I don’t slow down, and for a motorcycle, it might be a bit tough.

Just before reaching the destination, the weather suddenly changed, and I was hit by a thunderstorm, ending the drive.

For this trip, I had planned to reach the Tokusato Pass Viewing Platform, a scenic spot that offers a view of Mount Fuji, but a thunderstorm occurred nearby. Even if I were to descend, it seems that the viewing platform is the closest route, so I decided to head there.

Upon arriving at the viewing platform, the rain only became heavier. Since I was scared of lightning while sheltering from the thunderstorm near the mountaintop, I decided to end the drive here.

Source: Yamanashi Prefectural Tourism Promotion Organization

I was planning to enjoy breathtaking views like the ones in the image and be completely satisfied, but I was satisfied with thoroughly enjoying the hidden driving course. Next time, I want to pay attention to the changing weather and aim for the spectacular view.

Report & Text: Kazuma Tanaka

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