Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

The "UNKAI TERRACE (Sea of Clouds Terrace)" is a popular spot where you can enjoy the grandeur and beauty of the sea of clouds, a natural phenomenon that can only be encountered under specific seasonal and weather conditions. Early in the morning, a mystical sea of clouds spreads out before you, offering a breathtaking view of the sky.

You can reach this spectacular view by taking the Unkai Gondola, which takes about 13 minutes.

At the terrace, which is at an altitude of 1,088 meters, there are many observation spots where you can closely admire the sea of clouds, such as the "Cloud Pool," a large hammock-like structure shaped like a cloud, and the "Cloud Walk," which offers a 210-degree panoramic view. In August 2021, the " UNKAI TERRACE " was further renovated! A three-story observation deck, about 12 meters high, was added, allowing you to enjoy the spectacular sea of clouds created by nature even more closely.

Especially on the first floor of the deck, you can feel as if you are sailing into a sea of clouds.

The probability of encountering the sea of clouds is about 40% throughout the season. The scenery and visibility change with weather conditions and altitude, so it's recommended to explore and find your favorite spot.

Season: Mid-May to Mid-October

The breathtaking sea of clouds view from the "Unkai Terrace" transforms into the "Terrace of Frost Tree (Foggy ice terrace)" in winter, showcasing a subzero spectacle!

Foggy ice is a winter phenomenon where fog freezes onto trees at subzero temperatures. The more commonly known "juhyo" (frost-covered trees) is a type of Foggy ice.

So, what kind of scenery can you expect from the "Terrace of Frost Tree"?

Upon arriving at the "Terrace of Frost Tree" you'll be greeted by a mystical world of white brilliance from the terrace that juts out towards the sky. On clear days, the contrast between the blue sky and the Foggy ice is exceptionally beautiful! You can enjoy a serene and magical moment.

[Operating Period] December to March

Tenguyama, a symbolic mountain in Otaru, is renowned for its night views, designated as one of the "Three Great Night Views of Hokkaido" along with Hakodate and Sapporo.

In 2021, a new spot called "TENGUU Terrace" was established at the summit, offering breathtaking views. The name "TENGUU" combines "Tengu" (a mythical creature) and "Tenkuu" (sky), symbolizing the highest point in Otaru.

From the Tengu Sakura Observatory at the summit, located at an elevation of 532.4 meters, you can enjoy a panoramic view that encapsulates the charm of Otaru. The view extends beyond the cityscape to Otaru Bay, Ishikari Bay, and even the Shakotan Peninsula. You can relax in a chair and take in the scenery amidst lush nature.

The summit also features unique attractions such as the "Chipmunk Park", the "Nose-rubbing Tengu," and the "TENGUU Café", along with five different observatories offering spectacular views.

There are many Tengu-themed facilities and goods available, making them perfect souvenirs!

Visiting Tenguyama in the evening to enjoy both the daytime and night views is highly recommended. If you're lucky, you might even witness a romantic sunset sinking into a sea of clouds!

Lake Toya, rich in nature and offering the chance to enjoy the changing seasons with all five senses, is surrounded by breathtaking views in the grand geopark area of Lake Toya and Mt. Usu, marked by ancient geological changes.

The "Mt. Usu Ropeway," connecting the base of Showa Shinzan to the summit station of Mt. Usu, offers an aerial tour with a 360-degree panorama of Lake Toya, Showa Shinzan, and Mt. Yotei.

In 2020, the gondolas were renewed, expanding the glass surfaces to provide more dynamic views. Along with the gondola renewal, the "Mt. USU Terrace" at the summit observatory was grandly opened! From the "Mt. USU Terrace," equipped with sofas and a café, you can leisurely enjoy the spectacular views. The entire Lake Toya can be seen below, and in autumn, the area is beautifully colored with autumn leaves.

The summit observatory deck was partially expanded, increasing the deck area by 1.4 times and the number of sofas by four times, transforming it into a more open terrace. The expanded deck allows for a more relaxed experience, avoiding crowding.

From the summit station, you can take a walk while viewing the Great Usu, Small Usu, and New Usu mountains, leading to the Gin-numa Great Crater and the Mt. Usu outer rim observatory, where you can feel the breath of the earth.

Note: The outer rim promenade is closed during the winter period (November to April).

Mount Yotei, also known as "Ezo Fuji" and listed among the "100 Famous Japanese Mountains," is the symbol of the Niseko area. The "Yotei Panorama Terrace," located on Mount Sorioi at Rusutsu Resort, offers a vast panoramic view of Mount Yotei, Lake Toya, and the Pacific Ocean.

Ascending via the Yotei Gondola, you can enjoy the beautiful greenery below and reach a viewpoint with a magnificent panorama of Mount Yotei.

Additionally, during the summer vacation period (late July to late August), a special sunset gondola service operates, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking view of Mount Yotei illuminated by the setting sun.