Located in Japan’s Tomamu Resort, on the island of Hokkaido, the Unkai
Terrace is a unique scenic spot perched high atop a mountain peak that
is often above the clouds, offering tourists breathtaking views of the
white, fluffy sea beneath them.
The “unkai” (sea of clouds) phenomenon has been attracting tourists to
the resort town on Tomamu for years. The natural hot springs in the area
and the differences in temperature during the few hours when night
turns into day determine the formation of an immaculate white blanket of
clouds over the mountainous region, but only a few people had the
chance to see the unique effect from above, until a gondola system was
put in place. It takes early-bird tourists up the mountain to the Unkai
Terrace, right above the sea of clouds, where they can watch the
sunrise, take photos of the Hidaka and Tokachi mountain peaks as they
pierce the fluffy fog and enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee or a bowl of
soup. Although the gondola fare is pretty expensive (around $20), the
view from Unkai Terrace is definitely worth every yen. 12 more images after the break...
The terrace is open for tourists during the summer months until late
September, but even during this short season the sea of clouds can only
be observed about 40 percent of the time. On cloudy days, the entire
scenic spot is engulfed by thick fog, but you can still have a fun time
trekking the winding mountain slopes, and gondola operators are kind
enough to give tourists a postcard of what the view from Unkai Terrace
would be like if weather conditions were appropriate. And even on clear
days, you have to get up pretty early in the morning to catch the clouds
in action. The gondola starts transporting visitors at 4 in the morning
until just 8.30 am, so if you plan on going above the clouds, make sure
to set your alarm clock.
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