- 2024-10-05
Experience Japan’s Clearest Starry Sky in Achi Village: A Celestial Adventure in Nagano
AchiVillage,locatedontheborderofNaganoandGifuprefe……
If you’re planning a trip to Japan and want to experience breathtaking views, look no further than the scenic spots and viewing terraces in Nagano and Yamanashi Prefectures.
These locations offer not only stunning landscapes but also a cool and refreshing atmosphere, perfect for a summer getaway. Here are some of the top spots to visit.
Located in the Ryuoo Ski Park in northern Nagano, SORA Terrace stands at an elevation of 1,770 meters.
Known for its impressive sea of clouds, which forms 63.5% of the time under certain weather conditions, this spot offers a breathtaking view.
On clear days, you can see the Northern Alps and even Sado Island in the Sea of Japan.
At SORA Terrace Café, you can enjoy specialty food items, smoothies made with local fruits, and the unique “SORA Coffee” with cloud-shaped marshmallows. From July 2023, the café features an artificial sea of clouds twice daily at 11:00 and 15:00, providing a stunning backdrop for photos.
Address: 11700 Yomase, Yamanouchi, Shimotakai District, Nagano 381-0405
Phone: 0269-33-6166
Operating Period: April 29, 2023 – November 5, 2023
Situated at the top of Hakuba Iwatake Mountain Resort, at an elevation of 1,289 meters, HAKUBA MOUNTAIN HARBOR offers panoramic views of the Northern Alps.
The terrace provides a spectacular vista stretching from Hakuba Happo-One Ski Resort to Tsugaike Kogen Ski Resort.
Adjacent to the terrace is THE CITY BAKERY, a popular bakery from New York, known for its delicious pretzel croissant sandwiches. Many visitors come specifically for these treats.
Address: Iwatake, Hakuba Village, Kitaazumi District, Nagano 399-9301
Phone: 0261-72-2780
Operating Period: April 28, 2023 – November 12, 2023
For a unique experience, try the Tenku Kart at Fujimi Kogen Ski Resort. This self-driving cart takes you from the base to the 1,442-meter summit, offering direct contact with nature. The route starts through a birch forest, and as you near the summit, Mount Fuji comes into view.
Located just two hours from the Tokyo metropolitan area and a 10-minute drive from the Kobuchizawa IC, this spot is perfect for a day trip. The scenic views of Japan’s three tallest mountains—Mount Fuji, Mount Kita, and Mount Okuhotaka—are unforgettable.
Address: 12067 Sakai, Fujimi Town, Suwa District, Nagano
Phone: 0266-66-2932
Operating Period: April 1, 2023 – November 26, 2023
At the top of Kurumayama Kogen Sky Park Ski Resort, at an elevation of 1,925 meters, you’ll find Sky Terrace.
You can enjoy the view while riding the lift or take a leisurely walk down the mountain.
The “Sea of Clouds Lift” operates on specific days from 6 AM, providing a chance to see Mount Fuji rising above the clouds.
Address: 3413 Kitayama, Chino, Nagano
Phone: 0266-68-2227
Operating Period: April 26, 2023 – November 5, 2023
Located in Sun Meadows Kiyosato Ski Resort, Kiyosato Terrace sits at an elevation of 1,900 meters.
Known for its high sunshine rate of 80%, this terrace offers a cool, pleasant climate even in midsummer.
The terrace features comfortable circular sofas and open counter seats.
For a more exclusive experience, the five “Premium Seats” with parasols are available by reservation.
Address: 8240-1 Nishiide, Oizumi Town, Hokuto, Yamanashi
Phone: 0551-48-4111
Operating Period: April 29, 2023 – November 5, 2023