The Caldera Observatory (カルデラ展望所) on Route 36 in Hiyamisu Pass is an observation point with views of the village of Akaigawa and the surrounding forests and mountains. It is located on the northern outskirts of the village in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Caldera Observatory |
Caldera Observatory Details
WINTER
Established in 2006, the Caldera
Observatory offers one of the most stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the Caldera
terrain, surrounded by majestic mountains. Over the years, it has gained
popularity among photographers, especially those seeking to capture the beauty
of the landscape.
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| Caldera Observatory - Akaigawa village, Hokkaido Prefecture |
If you're lucky, you might witness a sea of clouds that envelop
the village below, creating a breathtaking and ethereal scene. The best time to
experience this phenomenon is in the early morning when the clouds are most
likely to form.
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| The road to the Caldera Observatory is covered in snow in winter. You can reach it only by foot. |
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| You will cross the boundary of the town of Niki before reaching Caldera Observatory in Akaigawa |
Despite its incredible views, the Caldera
Observatory is a simple pull-off area along the Hiyamizu Pass, offering no
facilities for visitors—no vending machines, toilets, or other amenities. The
only notable feature here is a memorial plaque installed in the parking area,
marking the spot. While basic, the location still provides an excellent vantage
point for a quick stop and a chance to appreciate the landscape.
View from the Caldera Observatory
Even without amenities, the Caldera
Observatory is a must-visit if you're traveling from Yoichi to Akaigawa. This
quiet, uncrowded spot is perfect for those looking to take a break and enjoy
some time away from the hustle and bustle. With luck, you might even catch a
glimpse of Mt. Yotei in the distance, adding to the allure of this tranquil
stop. Whether you're a photographer, nature lover, or simply in need of a
peaceful break, the Caldera Observatory is an ideal destination to take in the
surrounding beauty.
Team Nicerio visits Caldera Observatory
My family and I visited the Caldera
Observatory during the first day of our 3-day B-day Road Trip last April 1,2023. It was my 516th day here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. During our visit, it was still late winter, and the snow hadn’t fully
melted yet. As a matter of fact, Hiyamisu Pass is still unpassable to motorists, and for us to reach the observatory, we had to walk for about 500
meters in deep snow. Regardless, it was totally worth it. The observatory's
majestic view made us excited about what other beautiful places we’d see on
this 3-day road trip.
Caldera Observatory Admission Fee
It’s FREE to park and enjoy the view from
Caldera Observatory.
Caldera Observatory Operating Hours
Caldera Observatory is open 24/7. However,
the road is closed during winter (November to Early May). You can, however,
walk going to the observatory. Just make sure that you find a parking area
where you can leave your vehicle.
Why visit the Caldera Observatory?
The Caldera Observatory is a must-visit
destination for nature lovers and photographers, offering breathtaking
360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding Caldera terrain and mountains.
It’s especially popular for those hoping to witness the rare sea of clouds that
often envelop the village in the early morning, creating a mystical atmosphere.
The observatory is a peaceful, uncrowded spot, perfect for a relaxing break
while traveling between Yoichi and Akaigawa. On clear days, visitors can also
catch a glimpse of the iconic Mt. Yotei in the distance. While the observatory
lacks amenities, its stunning views and tranquil setting make it a memorable
stop for anyone seeking natural beauty and a unique photographic opportunity.
Getting to Caldera Observatory
Public transportation is not available to directly access the Caldera Observatory, making a rental car the most convenient option. To get there from Sapporo City, drive through Otaru City via National Route 5. Continue through the town of Niki along Fruit Highway, then proceed onto National Route 753. Finally, follow Route 36, which will lead you directly to the Caldera Observatory.
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