Unkai Terrace

Tomamu

Fantastic landscape overlooking a cloud sea

Surrounded by ski slopes and hotels, Tomamu mountain resort area is located near the center of Hokkaido. The most celebrated spot in this area is the Unkai Terrace of Hoshino Resorts Tomamu. From this vantage point, fortunate visitors can witness the spectacular cloud sea (called unkai in Japanese), which appears in the early morning under special atmospheric conditions. The cloud sea can be closely observed — and almost touched — because Unkai Terrace elevation of 1088 meters is a perfect altitude to encounter this phenomenon. You’ll be astounded as the cloud sea rolls over the mountains of the region, like a panoramic Japanese scroll painting.

The café closest to heaven on earth

Unkai Terrace is only open from mid-May to the end of October. Ropeway gondolas run from around 4:30 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. allowing visitors to easily access Unkai Terrace on a nearby mountaintop. Not only hotel guests but also general visitors are admitted to the observation area. A café is located near the terrace, so you can have breakfast while enjoying incredible scenic views. Depending on the season, Unkai Terrace offers free yoga lessons and a trekking guide to the top of Mount Tomamu.

Check weather conditions before visiting

The cloud sea is not visible every day. But even if you can’t see this spectacle, the ever-changing cloud patterns on the landscape will reward your effort to go up to Unkai Terrace, and the panoramic view of the Hidaka Mountains alone is worth your visit. A ropeway gondola is available without reservation, but please note that this service may be canceled in bad weather. Phone confirmation in advance is recommended.

For reference

Address

Tomamu, Azanaka, Shimukappu-mura, Yuhutsu-gun, Hokkaido
Telephone

0167-58-1111 (Hoshino Resorts Tomamu) Unkai Dial: 0167-58-1205
Open

4:30-8:00 a.m. (varies depending on season)
Service period for 2014

May 17 to October 14
Charge

Adult: 1,900 yen Child under 12: 1,200 yen
Season

mid-May to the end of October
Web Sites

http://www.snowtomamu.jp/unkai_terrace/

Access

3 hours and 30 minutes by “Airport” Special Express from New Chitose Airport to Minami-chitose Station and transfer to “Super Ozora” to Tomamu Station. Take the free shuttle bus from Tomamu Station to Hoshino Resorts Tomamu. 50 minutes by “Airport” Special Express from New Chitose Airport to Kanjo-dori Higashi Station via Sapporo Station.

Access to the nearest airport (New Chitose Airport)

From Tokyo International Airport (Haneda) - 1 hour and 30 minutes
From Chūbu Centrair International Airport- 1 hour and 40 minutes
From Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport) - 1 hour and 50 minutes
From New Kansai International Airport - 1 hour and 45 minutes
From Kobe Airport Terminal - 1 hour and 50 minutes
From Fukuoka Airport via Tokyo International Airport (Haneda) - 3 hours and 35 minutes