Towering as a symbol of Otaru, Mt. Tengu boasts an incredible five observation decks at its summit. Did you know that? Each one offers a slightly different angle and elevation, changing the impression of the view. This time, we'll introduce all five observation decks! Let's find your favorite viewpoint.

While you can hike or drive up Mt. Tengu, the ropeway is highly recommended! Especially if it's your first visit, be sure to enjoy the scenery from the ropeway. Once you arrive at the summit, head straight up to the roof of the station building to find the "Rooftop Observation Deck."

Located at the highest point among the five observation decks, it offers a grand panorama that includes the Shakotan Peninsula, the Shokanbetsu mountain range on the opposite shore, and the vast Sea of Japan.

Photo courtesy of laufen克

Another wonderful aspect of Mt. Tengu is the chance to see the Otaru night view, which is recognized as one of Hokkaido's three great night views.

If you want to capture a photo of the moving ropeway and the Otaru cityscape together, the "First Observation Deck," located to the left of the ropeway station, is the best spot. In front of the deck, you can also see the ski slope, which boasts Mt. Tengu's steepest incline at 40 degrees.

To the right of the station building is the "Tengu Sakura Observation Deck," symbolized by a single cherry tree over 100 years old. It also features the "TENGUU Terrace," a wooden deck measuring 3.6m wide and 2.0m deep, making it the spot with the closest view of the Otaru cityscape. You can relax here while enjoying the scenery.

Proceeding further from the Tengu Sakura Observation Deck, you'll find the "Second Observation Deck," marked by a gazebo. This deck is actually designated as an "Otaru City Important Scenic Viewpoint." From here, the entire Otaru cityscape fits perfectly into your field of vision, offering a view that truly represents Otaru.

Passing through the forest from the Second Observation Deck, the "Third Observation Deck," closest to Sapporo, appears. From the "Manten Stage" set up here, you should be able to see the "Tengu Rock," which looks like a tengu's face, and just below, the planned site for the Hokkaido Shinkansen Otaru Station (tentative name).

Photo courtesy of laufen克

The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons, from autumn foliage to winter snow, so visiting multiple times to see the landscape in each season is a great idea. However, please note that the Rooftop Observation Deck, the First Observation Deck, and the Third Observation Deck's Manten Stage are closed during the winter.

Furthermore, along the summit forest bathing course, there is another scenic point with a sign that reads "Miharashidai" (Scenic Lookout). Being at a higher elevation than the other observation decks, it offers yet another different landscape to enjoy.

The trail to the 532m summit is a 1.6km loop that takes about 20 minutes, with the sounds of wild birds accompanying you. It's an easy walk even for small children, so if you've come this far, why not aim for the top!

Along the way, you'll find tree trunks with QR codes. Try scanning one with your smartphone. You'll be able to get detailed information about that tree. You can enjoy forest bathing, learn new things, and take in the views... it's like killing three birds with one stone! Be sure to experience this along with the observation decks.

Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway / Ski Area

■Address: 2-16-15 Mogami, Otaru-shi
■Contact: 0134-33-7381
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