All Reviews of Otaru Tenguyama Observation Platform, Otaru Tenguyama Ropeway

Standing by the ropeway station getting ready to head up the mountain, I was already surrounded by autumn leaves turning red and cool air. As the ropeway slowly climbed, the forest below looked like a huge colorful carpet spread out beneath my feet. As we went higher, Otaru Port and the blue sea in the distance came fully into view, and the scenery opened up tremendously.

After reaching the summit, you can first take a walk around the small and charming Tenguyama Shrine. Fallen leaves completely covered the ground around the rustic torii gate, making a rustling sound underfoot, while the area had a very quiet and mysterious atmosphere.

Finally, I walked to the outdoor observation deck, where the densely packed houses of downtown Otaru and the beautiful curves of the harbor stretched out before me. Standing there and looking at the scenery below really makes you want to stop and stay for a long time, and before you know it, your mind begins to feel calm too.

When visiting Otaru, I recommend taking the Tenguyama Ropeway up the mountain to one of Otaru’s most iconic viewpoints! As the ropeway climbs, you can enjoy views of the mountains and downtown Otaru along the way. Once you reach the summit, you can take in sweeping views of Otaru’s streets, harbor, and coastline. The scenery is truly spectacular.

A separate ticket is required for the ropeway. Although only two cars operate, with one going up and the other going down, the intervals between departures aren’t very long, so you won’t have to wait too long even if there’s a line.

Besides the observation deck, there’s also Tenguyama Shrine on the mountain, and you can browse Tenguyama merchandise. There isn’t a huge variety, but strolling around with the beautiful scenery still gives you that special Otaru travel atmosphere.

Mt. Tengu is an attraction you absolutely shouldn't miss when visiting Otaru! I specifically chose a clear day, took the train from Sapporo to Otaru, then transferred to a bus and the ropeway up the mountain. I enjoyed the mountain scenery all the way up, and once I reached the observation platform, I could see all of Otaru, Otaru Port, and the coastline. The elevation here isn't particularly high, which actually makes the view of the city feel just right. The views are also great as you slowly walk along the hiking trails. Overall, the scenery is every bit as good as Mt. Hakodate, with an added touch of romance unique to Otaru. I recommend heading up the mountain when you visit Otaru!

If you're visiting Otaru, I really recommend planning a trip to Mt. Tengu!

Take Bus No. 9 from bus stop No. 4 at Otaru Station, ride it all the way to the last stop, and then take the ropeway up the mountain.

There weren't too many visitors before noon, so there was almost no wait for the ropeway. As it climbed, we watched the scenery through the windows. Once we reached the summit, we had sweeping views of downtown Otaru, the harbor, and the endless sea. The scenery was really beautiful!

Mt. Tengu also has plenty of fun attractions in summer. Besides enjoying the scenery, you can visit the chipmunk park. Admission is free, and you can buy food to feed them for JPY 300.

The speed at which the chipmunks devour sunflower seeds is honestly ridiculous. As soon as you have the food in your hand, it's gone in an instant, giving you no chance to feed them slowly. Watching them eat up close is unbelievably cute and so soothing!

If you visit Otaru, Mt. Tengu is definitely worth adding to your itinerary〜

You can enjoy the ocean views, ride the ropeway, and feed the chipmunks during the day. The whole outing is relaxing and fun!

Otaru Tenguyama Observation Platform is best known for its dreamy night view, and it’s even considered one of Hokkaido’s Three Best Night Views. This time, though, we chose to go during the day, and we weren’t disappointed at all!

As we rode the ropeway up, we had a clear view of Otaru Port, the city, and the snow-covered mountains. The silvery white winter scenery looked like something out of a fairy tale, and every angle was perfect for photos.

Although we didn’t get to see the city lights at night, the pure snowy landscape and wide-open views during the day actually made it even easier to feel the charm of winter in Hokkaido. If you visit Otaru in winter, consider adding a daytime trip to Mt. Tengu too. I’m sure you’ll be just as captivated by this beautiful white scenery as I was!

Mt. Tengu is located on the outskirts of Otaru. After taking the ropeway up, you can enjoy one of Hokkaido’s top three night views.

The mountain was pleasantly cool and lush with greenery, and the beautiful scenery stretched out before us. No wonder movies like Love Letter and First Love were filmed here.

I hope I can visit again next time. Going up in the evening would probably let us stay until the city lights start to glow...

The night view from Mt. Tengu in Otaru is really famous. Besides the night scenery, the mountain turns into a ski resort in winter, attracting lots of ski lovers. You can also enjoy the beautiful snowy landscape!

Most people who come here at night are couples. It's definitely one of the best spots for a date.

The night view of Otaru City from the top of Mt. Tengu is really nice!