Takabocchi Highlands offers an exquisite vantage point at an elevation of 1,665 meters. From mid-October to early December (before road closure), early mornings unveil an awe-inspiring sea of clouds. This spectacle creates the illusion of a white sea enveloping Lake Suwa and its surroundings.

Visitors can marvel at Mt. Fuji, towering between the Yatsugatake Mountains and the Southern Alps, including Mt. Kita (Kita-dake: north peak) and Mt. Kai-Koma (Kai Koma-ga-Take). As the morning sun illuminates the sea of clouds, it transforms into a golden, dreamlike world.

Nature enthusiasts cherish this spot for its ability to create moments of perfect harmony with the environment.

Getting there: Two routes lead to Takabocchi Highlands – the Gake no Yu route (from Shiojiri IC) and the Higashiyama route (from Okaya IC), both about 30 minutes by car. Closed in winter (early December to late April). Exercise caution on narrow city roads. Parking available (roadside parking strictly prohibited). Check the website for the latest information.
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Photographed: Late October 2018, 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM
Temperature: 2°C

Text/Kenji Sakamoto
Photo/Kenji Sakamoto
Translation/Yumiko Sushitani