Many people have probably found themselves moved by a breathtaking photo they saw on social media, thinking, "Someday, I want to visit this place!" At FUN! JAPAN, together with scenic view producer Shiho, we introduce articles featuring Japan’s stunning landscapes as seen through her eyes, along with tips for capturing those moments on camera.
This time, we’re featuring “SORA terrace” at Ryuoo Mountain Resort, located in northern Nagano Prefecture. With one of the world’s largest ropeways, you can ascend above the clouds without having to hike, making it a perfect scenic destination even for first-time travelers. Let’s take a peek at the enchanting world above the clouds that Nagano is so proud of.
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This Issue’s Photo: “SORA terrace”—A Front-Row Seat Above the Clouds, Bathed in the Sunset
The ever-changing colors of the sky blend quietly into a sea of clouds.
At an altitude of 1,770 meters, what unfolds before you is another world, far above the skies we usually gaze up at. As the sun sets—not on the horizon, but on the “cloud-line”—the pure white carpet of clouds is dyed in soft oranges and purples, enveloping you in a silence and beauty so profound it leaves you speechless.
Sitting beneath the terrace parasols with a cup of coffee in hand, taking in this view, may feel like a gift from the gods—one that lets you forget the rush of everyday life.
About Shiho
Producer of “The World's Most Amazing Places to Visit Before You Die.” Her book series has sold over 630,000 copies, and she has more than one million followers across social media. As a tourism advisor for local governments and companies, she travels the world, sharing the allure of breathtaking scenery.
Official Instagram: @shiho_zekkei
Another World at 1,770 Meters—Reachable by One of the World’s Largest Ropeways
Your journey to “SORA terrace,” located in Yamanouchi Town, Nagano Prefecture, begins with a ride on one of the world’s largest ropeways, which can carry up to 166 people. Breaking through the clouds from the base station, you’ll arrive at the 1,770-meter-high summit, where a magical “world above the clouds” awaits, far removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Right next to the terrace with its spectacular views is the “SORA terrace cafe,” offering a carefully curated menu. There’s a wide variety of original dishes to enjoy alongside the scenery, such as the “Omurice Above the Clouds” and “Sea of Clouds Pie Soup,” both inspired by the sea of clouds. You can also savor “SORA Coffee,” smoothies made with plenty of local fruits, and “Instagrammable original drinks” that reflect the changing sky. There’s also a great selection of sweets, including “Sea of Clouds Marshmallows” shaped like clouds, allowing you to enjoy a unique culinary experience above the clouds.
The Allure of the Sea of Clouds at SORA terrace, as Told by Shiho
The Best Place in Japan to See a Sea of Clouds
The sea of clouds you can encounter at SORA terrace is truly a once-in-a-lifetime work of art, whimsically painted by nature itself. Looking down from the mountaintop at an altitude of 1,770 meters, you’ll find a dynamic world that is completely different from the sky we usually look up at.
Shiho, who has seen many breathtaking views, shares the charm of SORA terrace: "It’s rare to find places overseas that are equipped for viewing a sea of clouds. Here, you don’t need to hike—just take the ropeway to the observation terrace and enjoy this magical atmosphere with minimal effort. That’s a major feature."
While many famous spots are only accessible early in the morning, SORA terrace is open from around 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 or 7:00 p.m. during the green season. Shiho explains, "You don’t have to wake up early, and you can stay as long as you like to wait for the sea of clouds, so your chances of seeing it are much higher. Personally, I think this is the easiest place in Japan to see a sea of clouds."
A Carpet of Clouds That Changes Expression Every Moment
Sometimes, the sea of clouds appears as an endless, fluffy “carpet of clouds.” At other times, it transforms into a dramatic “waterfall cloud,” where clouds cascade over the mountain ridges like a waterfall. The ever-changing expressions, depending on the weather conditions, are what make the sea of clouds at SORA terrace so captivating.
“The weather here changes very quickly. Even if it’s raining when you arrive, it’s not uncommon for the skies to clear within an hour,” says Shiho. She also surprises us by saying, “The worse the weather, the better your chances of seeing the sea of clouds.” When the clouds move and descend, a beautiful sea of clouds often appears. According to Shiho, it’s best not to give up and to wait patiently.
💡Tips for Capturing the Perfect View
Most people take photos from the terrace after getting off the ropeway, but Shiho’s tip is to “head to the elevated area near the restaurant, about 20–30 meters above the terrace, and include the terrace in your composition.” This way, you’ll capture not just the sea of clouds, but also the unique scale of SORA terrace in your photo.
The Moving Moment of Capturing Sunset and Sea of Clouds Together
The “Spiral Staircase to SORA,” which debuted as a new landmark in July 2025, is also highly recommended. Climb this staircase that seems to reach up into the sky, and you’ll be rewarded with an even more spectacular panoramic view from a higher vantage point. A remote camera system is also available, allowing you to use your smartphone to capture a special photo of your own. It’s a great feature for solo travelers, making it easy to take stunning photos even when traveling alone. (Access to the staircase is free. The photo service costs 500 yen per group.)
The sea of clouds is said to occur about 60% of the time, with the highest chance of seeing it in the evening. Shiho shared an episode about capturing this magical, special photo: "I was able to witness the scene of the sea of clouds and the sunset together, and even take a photo that looked as if I was playing with the setting sun. Actually, I had been waiting patiently since midday, but the sea of clouds just wouldn’t appear... Still, I kept waiting and waiting, right up until the last ropeway, and finally, at sunset, the sea of clouds spread out and the sky turned a brilliant red."
💡Tips for Enjoying Your Trip Even More
The best time to photograph the sunset and sea of clouds together is at sunset, but to increase your chances of seeing the sea of clouds, it’s important to stay for a long time. According to the official guide, it’s recommended to arrive about an hour and a half before sunset.
Playing with the Sky: Luxurious Ways to Enjoy SORA terrace
Elegant Moments at the Scenic Café and Herb Garden
At the summit, the "SORA terrace cafe" offers gourmet dishes and drinks inspired by the sea of clouds, allowing you to relax on sofa seats or in the library. Some seats are equipped with power outlets, making it possible to work remotely while enjoying the breathtaking view.
Shiho was deeply moved, describing the experience of enjoying a cup of coffee while taking in the magical sea of clouds as "truly luxurious." She also recommends spending a leisurely day here while waiting for the sea of clouds to appear.
More than just an observation deck, this space serves as a comfortable lounge where you can spend your time as you wish throughout the day.
In addition, at the nearby "Sea of Clouds Herb Garden," you can admire more than 150 varieties of rare alpine plants up close. Shihosan commented, "Being able to easily view rare alpine plants like the blue poppy, which only grows at high altitudes and is usually only seen by mountain climbers, is a truly valuable opportunity."
Glamping and Night Cruises Embraced by the Starry Sky
If you want to immerse yourself even deeper in nature, staying at the "SORA GLAMPING RESORT," where overnight accommodation is available, is highly recommended. Spending a night in the mountain foothills is truly the ultimate extraordinary experience.
At night, the experience of gazing at a sky full of stars while swaying in a hammock is sure to become a lifelong memory. Even for adults, it will be an unforgettable and romantic moment.
Additionally, at Ryuoo Mountain Resort, where SORA terrace is located, the "Starry Sky Night Cruise" is held on designated dates. By joining this tour, you can enjoy the night sky at the summit area of SORA terrace until 9:00 p.m. (Last ropeway ascent at 20:20, ends 40 minutes before closing time.)
Ryuoo Mountain Resort: Enjoyable All Year Round
The best season for viewing the sea of clouds is from spring to autumn, but in autumn, the mountains are colored with vibrant autumn leaves, and the panoramic view from the ropeway is breathtaking. In winter, the area transforms into a ski resort with superb powder snow. Throughout the year, this resort offers the wonderful opportunity to fully enjoy the nature of Shinshu, whether actively or elegantly.
Truly a Treasure Trove of Spectacular Views: The Charm of Northern Nagano
As Shihosan says, "Nagano Prefecture is a treasure trove of spectacular views!" There are countless attractions in Nagano that are well worth visiting in person.
The Mystical Sea of Clouds, Nurtured by the Mountains
One of the great charms of Nagano Prefecture is its varied terrain, woven by countless mountains. Shihosan explains, "Having many mountains not only means there are many places with great views, but also more valleys, which creates the perfect conditions for the sea of clouds to form." SORA terrace is located in a spot where the terrain makes it easy for the sea of clouds to appear, and it is precisely because of the mountains that you can encounter such diverse and spectacular scenery—this is the true essence of this region.
The dramatic seasonal temperature variations in Shinshu bring vibrant colors to each of the four seasons, revealing a different side of the landscape with every visit.
Recommended Sightseeing Spots and Gourmet Foods in Northern Nagano by Shiho
The northern part of Nagano Prefecture, where SORA terrace is located, is dotted with fascinating sightseeing spots. Shiho recommends a leisurely itinerary, such as visiting the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can see monkeys bathing in hot springs, staying at a ryokan in Shibu Onsen, a hot spring town with a charming retro atmosphere, and exploring the surrounding area at a relaxed pace.
Shiho also introduced an “interesting shop” near Nagano Station on the approach to Zenkoji Temple: the long-established Yawataya Isogoro. Here, you can enjoy a uniquely Japanese experience by blending your own spices to create a one-of-a-kind “original shichimi” (seven-spice blend).
And Shiho says, “If you visit Shinshu, the first thing you should try is its soba noodles.” The soba at the local favorite “Iwamoto Sobaya” is a special treat that lets you directly taste the flavors of the region. Savor Shinshu soba and add delicious color to your trip to Nagano.
Yawataya Isogoro Main Store
Iwamoto Sobaya
A Journey Woven with Nature, Culture, and Gastronomy in Northern Nagano, Presented by Travel Experts JTB
The northern part of Nagano Prefecture is full of rich nature, historic culture, and delightful gourmet experiences! Japan’s leading travel agency JTB offers trips that let you fully enjoy the charms of northern Nagano.
A Historic Inn Full of Character
The long-established ryokan Rekishi no Yado Kanaguya in Shibu Onsen is a distinguished inn where wooden buildings dating from the Taisho and Showa eras are still in use today. From Shibu Onsen, you can easily visit Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you can witness the magical sight of wild monkeys soaking quietly in open-air hot springs amidst the steamy, snow-covered mountains—a scene that attracts travelers from all over the world.
Rekishi no Yado Kanaguya
- Website: https://kanaguya.com/
- Reservation site: https://www.japanican.com/hotel/japan/nagano/rekishi-no-yado-kanaguya
Exquisite Sweets in the Town of Chestnuts
Obuse, known as the town of chestnuts, is a treasure trove for strolling, with cobblestone paths lined with long-established chestnut confectionery shops and unique boutiques, all designed to make the entire town feel like a single garden. Among them, the seasonal Mont Blanc “Suzaku” at Obusedo Main Store is a one-of-a-kind treat, lavishly topped with freshly squeezed chestnut paste, drawing many visitors from afar every year. The Mont Blanc at Kurino-ki Terrace also offers a blissful moment, enjoyed at a leisurely pace while gazing at the lush garden. Both are signature sweets of Obuse, well worth a special visit.
One of Japan’s Three Great Soba Regions
Also, if you are visiting the northern part of Nagano Prefecture, you can't miss Togakushi, which is counted as one of Japan's three most famous soba noodle regions. The cedar-lined approach to Togakushi Shrine, with its history of over 2,000 years, is a mystical space where towering trees seem to reach the sky, renowned as a spiritual power spot. After visiting the shrine, it's customary to enjoy Togakushi soba, nurtured by pure spring water and mountain air. Highly recommended local favorites include "Uzuraya" and "Sobanomi." The noodles' firm texture and aroma are exceptional. Be sure to try them at least once.
Furthermore, the northern area of Nagano Prefecture is also famous for its hot springs. Among them, Nozawa Onsen is home to one of Japan’s largest ski resorts and is particularly popular among advanced skiers. It is a charming hot spring town where you can enjoy both the historic hot spring atmosphere and winter sports at the same time.
Why not visit Nagano and experience its magnificent natural beauty and rich history for yourself?
Access from Tokyo to Nagano Prefecture
Shinkansen from Tokyo
- Tokyo Station → Nagano Station: About 1 hour 30 minutes by JR Hokuriku Shinkansen
Express Bus from Tokyo
- Ikebukuro (Ikebukuro Sunshine City Bunka Kaikan) → Nagano Station: About 3 hours 42 minutes
- Shinjuku (Busta Shinjuku) → Nagano Station: About 4 hours 40 minutes
Express buses also operate from various locations in Tokyo to Nagano Station and surrounding sightseeing spots. Enjoying the scenery from the bus window is one of the pleasures of the journey.
SORA terrace
- Address: 11700 Yomase, Yamanouchi-machi, Shimotakai-gun, Nagano Prefecture, inside Ryuoo Mountain Resort
- Access: About 1 hour 17 minutes from Tokyo Station to Nagano Station on the Hokuriku Shinkansen Hakutaka, about 50 minutes from Nagano Station to Yudanaka Station on the Nagano Electric Railway Limited Express, then about 25 minutes by free shuttle bus from Yudanaka Station.
- Operating period: April 25 (Sat), 2026 – November 8 (Sun), 2026 (Green Season)
- Opening hours: 09:00–19:00 (Ropeway operating hours. May vary by season)
- Fare (Ropeway round trip):
- Adults (junior high school students and older): from ¥2,500
- Children (elementary school students): from ¥1,300 *Free for preschool children
- Pets: ¥600
- Official website: https://ryuoo.com/green/
*Please check the official website for the latest fares and operating information.
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