Autumn from the Sky: These 5 Cable Cars in Japan Are Perfect for Momijigari
What to do in Japan during autumn? If you’re traveling around September to November in Japan, it’s a must to see the leaves turn red and yellow before falling to the ground.
Locals look forward to this sight, celebrating the colorful phenomenon with momijigari, which directly translates to “red leaf maple hunting.” This autumn leaf-viewing tradition is similar to spring’s hanami or cherry blossom viewing wherein people flock to scenic places to appreciate the transient beauty of nature.
One way to experience this, of course, is by having a picnic underneath the crimson trees. However, if you’re looking for a different yet equally spectacular way of enjoying momijigari, consider admiring the view from up above. How? Well, simply hop on cable cars in Japan to get a stunning bird’s-eye view of vivid autumn foliage.
Here are the best ropeways to enjoy autumn in Japan. Hop on them to see a sea of red autumn leaves from up in the sky.
(1) Hakkaisan Ropeway (Niigata prefecture)
Measuring a total length of 2,217 meters, Hakkaisan Ropeway in Niigata Prefecture is one of the best cable car rides in Japan for catching autumn views. Seven minutes long, the ride rises from the foot of the Muikamachi Basin, which is known as the production center of Koshihikari rice of Minami Uonuma, to the area of the fourth station of Mt. Hakkai or Hakkaisan.
From the summit observatory, the Sea of Japan and even Sado Island (Sadoshima) can be seen on a clear day. In autumn, lots of tourists visit this place as one of the best spots to view the autumn leaves in Niigata Prefecture.
From the summit of Mount Hakkai, you can see Japanese rowan trees, maple trees, beech trees, and others gradually change to autumnal colors from around the middle of September. In November, the contrast between the white snow and the flaming-red autumn leaves on Mt. Hakkai is a sight to behold.
Peak season
The best time to see the autumn leaves is from mid-October to early November.
Must-see spots
The recommended spot for viewing autumn leaves is the Hakkaisan Ropeway Observatory by the Hakkaisan Ropeway Sancho Station.
Facility Information
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Name: Hakkaisan Ropeway Website: Hakkaisan Ropeway (Japanese) |
2) Rokko-Arima Ropeway (Hyogo Prefecture)
Rokko-Arima Ropeway runs between the summit of Mt. Rokko (Rokkosan) and Arima Onsen for about 12 minutes.
At the top of Mt. Rokko, you can also drop by the Rokko Garden Terrace and Mount Rokko Athletic Park GREENIA, which are two of the most recommended spots for families.
In March 2020, a new gondola started operating at Mt. Rokko. This features large glass windows showing a spectacular 360-degree view, allowing you to feel the thrill as you view the magnificence of Mt. Rokko.
On this cable car ride in Japan, you’ll get to see the native Enkianthus perulatus trees, which are dyed a vivid red in autumn. During the peak season in November, you can also see a picturesque scene that looks similar to a Nishiki-e print, a type of Japanese art that is printed with multi-colored woodblocks.
Peak season
See the autumn leaves from the beginning to the end of November.
Must-see spots
Autumn colors start appearing by the Rokko Sancho Station (in front of Rokko Garden Terrace / GREENIA) in mid-October. Make sure to check out the colors that change depending on the altitude, such as yellow beech trees near the summit station and red maple trees near Arima Onsen.
Facility Information
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Name: Rokko-Arima Ropeway Website: Mt. Rokko and Mt. Maya Aerial Ride (English) |
3) Unzen Ropeway (Nagasaki Prefecture)
Unzen Ropeway, located in Unzen, Nagasaki Prefecture, Kyushu, takes you from the parking lot of Nita Pass to the 1,333-meter-high peak of Mt. Myokedake in approximately three minutes.
Unlike most cable cars in Japan, the Unzen Ropeway is still operated manually by well-trained drivers who ensure your safety as you enjoy momijigari.
Mt. Myokendake is worth seeing for its wide variety of flora. On your trip to the top, you’ll spot garden maples, Honshu maples, Hawthorn leaf maples, and Enkianthus perulatus that turn yellow and red.
Named one of the top places where you can see autumn leaves in Kyushu, Japan, this spot gives you a view that looks just like bright coral reefs under the sea. For its beauty, this seasonal spectacle has even been designated as a national natural monument named Fugendake Autumn Leaves Forest.
Peak season
The autumn leaves are at their best from the end of October to the beginning of November.
Must-see spots
The short ride up to the top of Mt. Myokendake gives you an expansive view of mountain slopes covered with orange foliage, so keep your phone cameras ready for picture-taking when you board! After a thrilling ride, head to the observatory near the summit so you can take the time to appreciate the sights.
Facility Information
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Name: Unzen Ropeway Website: Unzen Ropeway (English) |
Bonus: Ropeways in Kanto Region
Hakone Komagatake Ropeway in Kanagawa Prefecture connects Hakone-en Station to Komagatake Chojo Station at an altitude of around 1,327 meters. Riding this cable car in Hakone, Japan, is also recommended during autumn as it gives you a glimpse of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi surrounded by a sea of scarlet trees.
Akechidaira Ropeway in Tochigi Prefecture, Kanto region, also provides a panoramic view of the wonderful scenery of Nikko, such as Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, and, most importantly, the autumn leaves of Irohazaka.
Doesn’t autumn in Japan sound a hundred times more fun when you’re seeing it from the skies? If you’re planning to enjoy momijigari as well, make sure to plan ahead. Schedule your trip to these cable car spots during peak season to experience the best that autumn has to offer.
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