Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

When it comes to night views in Hokkaido, the "night view from Mt. Hakodate," famous as one of Japan's Three Major Night Views, comes to mind. It has long been counted among the world's three major night views and has received a three-star rating in the 'Michelin Green Guide Japan,' introduced as a spot "worth traveling to."

The city of Hakodate, nestled between Hakodate Bay and the Tsugaru Strait, features a distinctive fan-shaped terrain centered around Mt. Hakodate. The light silhouette along the dramatically curved arch-shaped coastline enhances the jet-black sea, creating a beautiful night view with a perfect contrast of light and darkness. The best time to visit is just before dusk, as the gradually darkening sky and the city lights turning on create a very romantic atmosphere. The view from the ropeway is also spectacular.

If the "night view from Mt. Hakodate" is the "front night view," then looking towards Mt. Hakodate from the mountains on the opposite side is the "back night view." This hidden gem has been gaining attention in recent years. For a different perspective, consider visiting the " Shirotai Pasture Observatory," a representative spot for the back night view, and enjoy a unique nightscape.

Sapporo, selected as one of "Japan's New Three Most Spectacular Night Views," is the largest city north of the Tohoku region. Its night view is often described as a "carpet of lights" or a "sparkling jewelry box." Sapporo is also considered the birthplace of night view culture, with the "Sapporo White Illumination," which began in 1981, being regarded as a pioneer of modern illuminations.

The night view of Sapporo can be enjoyed from various perspectives, from high-rise buildings to mountaintop observatories. Changing viewpoints reveals different aspects of Sapporo's nightscape. For example, Mount Moiwa, located at a moderate distance from the city center, is a night view spot with an excellent view, as the Ainu people called it "Inkarushipe" (a place to always climb up and watch). The night view of Sapporo from Mount Moiwa, which offers a panoramic view of the vast cityscape spreading across the plains, is also selected as one of Hokkaido's three major night views.

To fully enjoy the night view of Sapporo, don't settle for just one spot! Explore various locations and find your favorite night view spot.

When it comes to night view spots in the port town of Otaru, the Otaru Canal is a must-see. At dusk, the gas lamps along the promenade light up, and the stone warehouses are illuminated, creating a nostalgic atmosphere and a fantastical scene different from the daytime. In recent years, the "Otaru Canal Cruise," which has become a staple, has seen a rise in popularity for its night cruises that depart after sunset. The gas lamps and building lights reflect on the canal's surface, offering a romantic experience.

Historical buildings in the city, such as the former Otaru Branch of the Bank of Japan, are also illuminated, beautifully decorating the entire city. Among the many night view spots in Otaru, the night view from Mt. Tengu, overlooking the city, is selected as one of Hokkaido's three major night views, alongside the night views from Mt. Hakodate and Mt. Moiwa in Sapporo. The view spreading out below is as beautiful as a scattering of jewels. This breathtaking night panorama is also featured with a one-star rating in the 'Michelin Green Guide Japan.'

Muroran, one of the leading industrial areas in Hokkaido, is also gaining attention as a factory night view spot. The scenes of illuminated factories look like something out of a sci-fi movie, captivating fans from all over the country. Muroran, with its bowl-shaped terrain centered around the port, has observation decks scattered throughout the city, allowing visitors to enjoy various factory night views. Among them, the "Shukutsu Park Observatory," where you can simultaneously see the factory lights and the illumination of the "Hakucho Bridge," the largest suspension bridge in eastern Japan at 1,380 meters long, is registered as a Japan Night View Heritage site.

The popular night cruising allows you to see various plants of the steelworks up close and view the Hakucho Bridge from directly below. Departure times vary according to sunset, so be sure to check!