When you think of Mount Tengu in Otaru, many people may have a strong impression of a ski resort. In fact, even in summer, there are plenty of places to play and see on the summit! Let's take a look.

You can walk to the top of Tenguyama, but it can be a bit hard for those who are not used to it, so we recommend going by car or ropeway. When you arrive, first visit Otaru Tenguyama Shrine. This is a historic shrine dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami, who is said to be the origin of Tengu. Pray for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Next, we met the Nose-smoked Tengu near the shrine. It is said that if you stroke the Nose-smoked Tengu's big nose and make a wish, your wish will come true. By the way, if you want to pray for an easy birth, you should gently stroke the tip of the nose... and so on. Check the sign next to it to find out!

Now that you've finished making wishes, it's time to have some fun! How about gliding through the air on the "TENGUU Zip Line" while looking down on the city of Otaru? Gliding through the air with a spectacular view as your backdrop is an experience you won't have very often.

Photo courtesy of Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway and Ski Resort

Another popular attraction is the 400m long Tenguyama Slider. You can adjust the speed of the bobsled yourself, so it can be enjoyed by both children and adults. As you slowly make your way to the starting point in an automatic car, you can hear the sounds of wild birds, which is wonderful.

Photo courtesy of Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway and Ski Resort

You can even ride in a hot air balloon! From the family slope at 530m, you can take the "TENGUU Hot Air Balloon" 30m up into the sky... the panoramic view from there will be an irreplaceable memory. The TENGUU Zip Line, Tenguyama Slider, and TENGUU Hot Air Balloon are all paid attractions that are only available in the summer, so be sure to check the official website!

After enjoying the attractions, why not try interacting with the cute little animals? There is a "Chipmunk Park" on Mount Tengu, and admission is free.

The chipmunks running around your feet are just adorable! Buy some food for 300 yen, put it down and wait for them to come and eat. This park is also only open in the summer because the chipmunks hibernate in the winter.

If you get tired after playing a lot, take a break at "TENGUU CAFE". We recommend the "Tengu Soft Serve" (400 yen including tax). The karinto shaped like a tengu's nose surprisingly goes well with the soft serve ice cream.

The shop attached to the cafe sells "Tengu's Tall Clogs." It is said that if you climb onto these clogs and pray quietly, Tengu will open the way and grant your wish. Since clogs come in pairs, they are also said to be associated with finding love.

Behind Takageta is the entrance to the Otaru Ski Museum, and after passing through the museum you will arrive at the Tengu House. On display here are about 700 large and small Tengu-related items collected from all over Japan. The Tengu masks that cover the entire wall are particularly impressive.

The projection mapping inspired by Tenguyama is also a sight to behold. Many people are probably surprised to learn that Tenguyama has so many things to see and attractions to enjoy. Please come and enjoy a fun time at Tenguyama.

Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway and Ski Resort

■Address: 2-16-15 Mogami, Otaru City ■Contact: 0134-33-7381 See details of "Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway and Ski Resort" on Domingo