Mountain Tenguyama

Mountain Tenguyama stands at 532.5 meters (1,747 feet), the highest point in Otaru, where you can get a panoramic view of the entire city of Otaru. It is known as one of the three famous night views in Hokkaido, along with Mt. Hakodate Night View in Hakodate and Mt. Moiwa Night View in Sapporo. There are five observation decks on the mountain, offering different views of Otaru's scenery. In winter, the entire Mountain Tenguyama is covered in snow, creating a romantic atmosphere that is particularly attractive. 

Snow scenery of Mountain Tenguyama

Observatories in Mountain Tenguyama

1. Rooftop Observatory

The Rooftop Observatory, situated at the highest point on top of the mountain, offers a panoramic vista of Otaru, the Shakotan Peninsula, and the Sea of Japan. As night descends, the lights of Otaru sparkle like stars, harmoniously complementing those in the sky. During the day, one can behold the colorful stacked houses of Otaru and the vast forests, which resemble a beautiful painting. Whether it be the fresh and natural scenery of the day or the dazzling spectacle at night, the Rooftop Observatory is bound to bestow an unforgettable visual experience.

2. Daiichi Observatory 

At Daiichi Observatory, you can see the cable car running against the backdrop of Otaru's street scene. Be sure to take a memorable photo with the cable car at “Otaru Photo Frame.” Moreover, in front of the observatory lies the ski slope with the steepest incline, as if one could feel the excitement and passion of skiers.

3. Daini Observatory 

From the Daini Observatory, a panoramic view of the entire Otaru unfolds. Here, while taking a walk on the forest path, visitors can relish the natural scenery. Additionally, there is a rest area for respite.

4. Daisan Observatory Starry Stage 

Daisan Observatory Starry Stage stands in a natural and rich forest, where you can see various scenery from spring to autumn, such as green mountains and autumn foliage. Directly in front of it is a “Tenguiwa” shaped like a Tengu face.

Mountain Tenguyama in winter

5. Mt. Tengu Sakura Observatory

Mt. Tengu Sakura Observatory has a cherry blossom tree called “Tenguzakura” with an age of over 100 years. When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the tree's shape resembles a heart, making it a popular tourist attraction. Many lovers like to come here to take photos during the cherry blossom season.

What to Do and Where to Go in Mountain Tenguyama

1. Otarutenguyama Ski Area

Otarutenguyama Ski Area is located behind the port, and from the top of the ski slopes, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the port and the streetscapes of Otaru. The ski slope here is quite steep, so it's suitable for those who have some skiing experience. If you're not good at skiing, there's also a snow playground where you can have fun.

Reference price: 5,000 yen - 10,000 yen
Ski season: Mid-December to mid-March
Opening hours: 10:00 - 16:00

2. Tenguyama Slider Course

It is a 400-meter grass slide where you can enjoy the beauty of nature and listen to the delightful sounds of birds while slowly gliding down the grassland.

Ticket: Adult: 600 yen; Aged 7 - 12: 300 yen; Aged at 6 and below: free of charge.
Opening time: May 11 to October 14; closed from October 15 to May 10
10:00 - 12:30, 13:00 - 17:00

3. Tenguu Zip Line

This zip line allows you to glide through the air at a height of 128 meters (420 feet) while taking in the stunning views of Otaru. It's a one-of-a-kind thrilling experience here.

Ticket: 1,200 yen per person
Opening time: Weekends and holidays during April 20 - November 4; closed from November 5 to April 21.
10:00 - 11:30, 12:30 - 17:00; Closed at 16:30 from October 15 to November 4

4. Tenguu Hot Air Balloons

Tenguu Hot Air Balloons

These hot air balloons will ascend higher than the top of the mountain, taking you on an aerial adventure where you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the beautiful scenery from the sky.

Ticket: Adult: 3,200 yen; Aged 4 - 12: 2,500 yen; Aged at 3 and below: free of charge.
Opening time: May 15 to October 20: 18:00 - 19:00
※Closed from October 21 to May 14

5. Shimarisu Park - Home to Cute Squirrels

Here you can find adorable squirrels that are not afraid of people at all. They will even come up to you and interact with you. It must be a lovely experience to buy some food to feed them and watch their cute faces when eating.

Ticket: Free of charge
Opening time: June to September: 09:00 - 21:00
※Closed from October to May

6. Otara Ski Museum

The Otara Ski Museum showcases approximately 400 valuable records of skiing domestic events and the Winter Olympics held in Otaru.

Ticket: Free of charge
Opening time: 09:00 - 21:00

7. Tengu-no-Yakata

This museum collects and displays items related to Tengu from all over Japan.

Ticket: Free of charge
Opening time: 09:00 - 21:00

Praying for blessings at Mountain Tenguyama

●Hana-nade Tengu, a sculpture of a Tengu. Legend has it that the long nose of the Tengu has magical powers and touching it can make your wishes come true.

●Enmesion, which is said to bless people with health and longevity.

●Tengu’s Takageta, a pair of wooden clogs. It is said that wearing it can eliminate bad luck and bring about a happy marriage.

How to Get to Mountain Tenguyama

Frist step: Get to Tenguyama Station

●By bus:
Depart from Otaru Station, buy a ticket to Mountain Tenguyama at the self-service ticket machine, then take bus No. 9 at platform 4 and arrive at Mountain Tenguyama in about 20 minutes.

●By taxi:
It takes about 10 minutes to get to Mountain Tenguyama from Otaru Station by taxi.

Second step: Take the cable car to the top of the Mountain Tenguyama

Mountain Tenguyama Ropeway

After arriving at Tenguyama Station, walk 100 meters (110 yards) to the cable car ticket purchase area. Sitting in the cable car and indulging in the magnificent mountain scenery is an extraordinary experience. It only takes five minutes to reach the top of the mountain.

Tickets for the cable car：

Tickets	Adults	Children	Pets
One way	JPY960	JPY480	JPY200
Roundtrip	JPY1,600	JPY800	JPY300
Note: One child under six years per adult can ride for free.

Departure time: 9:00 - 21:00, every 12 minutes
Final departure of a day: Ascent: 20:48; Descent: 21:00

Admission fee	Entry to Mountain Tenguyama is free.
Opening time	All day
Recommend tour time	2 - 3 hours; It is recommended to reach the top of the mountain around 15:00.