7 best observatories for viewing beautiful winter scenery

7 best observatories for viewing beautiful winter scenery

While the lush greenery and colorful autumn leaves are beautiful, Hokkaido offers many breathtaking views that can only be seen in winter. The sight of snow-covered streets and mountains not only exudes beauty but also conveys a sense of strength. Here, we introduce observatories where you can enjoy the majestic snowy landscapes of Hokkaido. Please use this as a reference when planning your winter trip to Hokkaido.

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Mt. Okura Observatory

A spectacular view! It's the view ski jumpers see

Mt. Okura Observatory is located atop the Mt. Okura Ski Jump Stadium, which was used as one of the venues for the 1972 Winter Olympics. The view from the observatory, situated at the starting gate of the 307-meter-high ski jump, is truly spectacular. A vast panorama of Sapporo city and the Ishikari Plain unfolds beyond the approach slope.

  • Mt. Okura Observatory

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Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway

Various ways to enjoy! Spectacular view of Otaru City

532.4-meter-high Mt. Tengu, located about 15 minutes by car from the city center, is well known as a symbol of Otaru. It takes about 4 minutes by ropeway from the foot of the mountain to the top where there is an observation deck. You can enjoy the nostalgic view of Otaru while walking in the air.

  • Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway

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Mt. Hakodate Observatory

Hakodate's night view was awarded three stars by the Michelin Green Guide.

Mt. Hakodate is well known by citizens and tourists alike as the symbol of Hakodate. The ropeway, which can be used in any season, is a convenient way to reach the top of the mountain where the observation deck is located. The 3-minute aerial walk to the top of the 334-meter-high mountain provides a panoramic view of the cityscape in the distance. It is also accessible by bus, car, or on foot.

  • Mt. Hakodate Observatory

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Shirahige Waterfall

A representative waterfall of Biei! One of the tourist attractions in Shirogane Onsen Town

The Biei River, commonly known as the “Blue River,” splashes as underground water seeping out from between rocks flows down with great force from a height of about 30 meters. The river is named after its powerful appearance, which looks like a white beard. The different expressions of the river in each of the four seasons are a must-see.

  • Shirahige Waterfall

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Asahidake

A beautiful and majestic mountain selected as one of the "100 most famous mountains in Japan"

Asahidake, at 2,291 meters above sea level, is the highest peak in Hokkaido and the main peak of the Daisetsuzan mountain range! Its high latitude makes it a 3,000-meter environment on the main island of Honshu, and visitors can admire the unique plants of the Tennyogahara wetlands, as well as the more than 40 varieties of alpine plants that bloom in and around the Sugatami-no-Ike and its surrounding area.

  • Asahidake

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Kushiro Marsh Observatory

Enjoy a panoramic view of Kushiro Marsh

The observation and exhibition facility, whose building is designed in the motif of the “Yachibozu,” a species found in the marshlands, offers a panoramic view of the marshlands from the observation room on the third floor and the rooftop, giving visitors a vivid sense of the vastness of Hokkaido.

  • Kushiro Marsh Observatory

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Mikuni Pass Observation Deck

Spectacular Spots in Hokkaido

“Mikuni Pass” shows its beautiful face in each of the four seasons. It is a spectacular spot where you can see the magnificent scenery of Hokkaido. The name “Mikuni” comes from its location on the border of Ishikari, Tokachi, and Kitami in the old name of the area. Mikuni Pass is located in the vast area of “Daisetsuzan National Park,” and with an elevation of 1,139 meters, it is the highest pass among the national roads in Hokkaido.

  • Mikuni Pass Observation Deck

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