The sea of clouds, or "unkai," offers a surreal, heavenly view that seems almost otherworldly. However, it’s a phenomenon that doesn’t appear just anywhere; it requires specific conditions, locations, and timing. In this article, we’ll explore the conditions under which unkai occurs and recommend seven top spots across Japan where you can witness this breathtaking spectacle. Although there are many unkai spots nationwide, we’ve carefully selected seven of the best. Use this guide to plan your visits during the unkai season and experience the magic for yourself.
* Purchasing or reserving products introduced in this article may result in a portion of sales being returned to FUN! JAPAN.
Best Time and Places to See the Sea of Clouds in Japan
A sea of clouds is a phenomenon that occurs when several conditions align perfectly. Generally, it can be seen when there have been two or three consecutive sunny days, the temperature difference between day and night is more than 15 degrees Celsius, there is sufficient humidity, and the morning is clear and windless. Let’s dive into these conditions in more detail.
When is the Sea of Clouds Season
For fog to form, the air must be humid, and there must be a significant temperature difference between day and night. This is why unkai is often seen in spring and autumn. The best chance of witnessing unkai is on a clear, calm morning after a night of radiation fog, or the morning after rain when the fog is dense. If you’re eager to catch a glimpse of unkai, these are the ideal conditions to look out for. When heading to the mountains to see unkai, be sure to check road conditions, weather forecasts, and any disaster alerts beforehand.
Where Can You See the Sea of Clouds? What Are the Conditions?
In valleys, when radiation fog forms, it stays trapped in the area, and from a slightly elevated viewpoint, you can see what looks like an ocean of clouds—this is unkai. However, since the conditions required for its formation are specific, unkai isn’t something you can see every day.
The clouds that form unkai, such as stratus or stratocumulus clouds, usually appear at altitudes below 2,000 meters. To enjoy unkai, you’ll need to be higher than that. However, in some cases, fog can form at much lower altitudes, even just a few dozen meters high, which means you might even spot unkai from the upper floors of tall buildings or apartments. While the view might differ from that seen in nature, unkai is actually a phenomenon that can be enjoyed closer to home than you might think.
1. Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Unkai Terrace | Hokkaido
Opened in 2006, Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Unkai Terrace offers a luxurious experience where you can witness dynamic sea of clouds right before your eyes. It's a perfect spot for capturing Instagram-worthy shots, especially in the early morning when the gondola is in operation and you can enjoy morning coffee and snacks at the café while taking photos of the unkai. With six different observation spots, you can capture the sea of clouds from various angles. The terrace is particularly popular with female visitors and draws crowds from all over the country on weekends.
It’s about a 1-hour and 40-minute drive from New Chitose Airport, about 2 hours by car from Sapporo City, and about 1 hour by car from Obihiro City. Additionally, there is a daily bus service from Sapporo, making it a convenient location to visit. If you're in Hokkaido, this is a must-see spot.
- Address: Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, Shimukappu, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido
- Best Viewing Season: Early mornings from May to October
2. Mt. Fuji | Shizuoka Prefecture
The summit of Mount Fuji is another famous spot for viewing the sea of clouds. Recommended viewing points include Yoshida 6th Station, Subashiri New 6th Station, Fujinomiya 5th Station, and Gotemba New 6th Station. At elevations above the 5th station, from early July to early September, the chances of seeing a stunning sea of clouds increase, so be sure to give it a try when you visit.
Another unique feature of Mount Fuji is that you can enjoy both the sunrise and the sea of clouds at the same time. The clouds illuminated by the morning sun create a heavenly atmosphere, offering a breathtaking view that you can only experience here. If you’re lucky, you might even witness the rare phenomenon of the sun emerging from within the sea of clouds.
- Address: Awakura, Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture
- Best Viewing Season: Mid-October to Mid-December
3. The Veranda at Ishiuchi Maruyama | Niigata Prefecture
Primarily a ski resort in winter, The Veranda at Ishiuchi Maruyama began its green season operations in 2022. It has quickly become a popular new viewing spot, featuring one of the largest observation terraces in the area. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the expansive rural landscape below. While taking in the vibrant, natural scenery, you can also savor delightful meals and drinks made with local ingredients.
- Address: 1655 Ishiuchi, Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture
- Best Viewing Season: Mid-February to March
4. SORA terrace | Nagano Prefecture
Located at Ryuoo Mountain Park, a popular ski resort in Nagano Prefecture, SORA Terrace is a top tourist destination where you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea of clouds and stunning sunsets. In the evening, this sunset spot offers a unique experience where the sun sets at eye level, allowing you to witness the sunset and the sea of clouds simultaneously. During the best season, photographers from all over the country flock here to capture this magical moment.
While the sea of clouds is typically associated with early mornings, the best chance to see the sea of clouds from SORA Terrace is in the evening. The combination of sunset and sea of clouds creates a unique and breathtaking view that can only be experienced here.
- Address: Nagano, Yomase, Yamanochi, Shimotakai District, Nagano prefecture
- Best Viewing Season: Summer evenings
5. Mt. Kuruhi | Hyogo Prefecture
Mt. Kuruhi, standing at 567 meters, is one of the "100 Best Mountains of Hyogo." The mountain is easily accessible by car, making it a favorite hiking destination for both tourists and locals. During autumn, when the sea of clouds is most likely to appear, the mountain attracts many photographers from across the country, all eager to capture the breathtaking view.
- Address: Mt. Kuruhi, Kinosaki Town, Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture
- Best Viewing Season: Early mornings from September to November
［kkday]👉3-Day Pass: Kinosaki Onsen Attraction Pass | Japan
6. Takeda Castle Ruins | Hyogo Prefecture
Often referred to as the "Machu Picchu of Japan," Takeda Castle Ruins sit at an elevation of 353.7 meters and are a symbolic spot that popularized the image of the sea of clouds in Japan.
There are three highly recommended photo spots for capturing stunning, social media-worthy shots. The first is the Tenshudai (main keep) platform, offering views that make you feel as if you're standing in Machu Picchu. The second is Ritsuunkyo Gorge, where you can see the entire Takeda Castle floating in the sea of clouds. The third is Fujiwatoge Pass, providing a view of Takeda Castle as a silhouette. Each spot offers a unique perspective of Takeda Castle, making them must-visit locations.
- Address: 169 Kojoyama, Takeda, Wadayama-cho, Asago City, Hyogo Prefecture
- Best Viewing Season: Early mornings from September to November
［klook]👉Takeda Castle Town Hotel
7. Kunimigaoka | Miyazaki Prefecture
Located at an elevation of 513 meters, Kunimigaoka in Miyazaki Prefecture is another excellent spot to view the sea of clouds. On clear, windless mornings with a significant temperature drop, you can witness this mystical phenomenon. The best time to see the sea of clouds in this area is from mid-September to early December in the early morning. With only a 15-minute drive from Takachiho town, it's a conveniently accessible sea of clouds spot in Miyazaki Prefecture.
- Address: Oshikata, Takachiho-cho, Nishiusuki-gun, Miyazaki Prefecture
- Best Viewing Season: Early mornings from mid-September to early December
［kkday]👉Explore Miyazaki: Recommended Leisure, Activities, and Tourist Information
Plan Your Visit to See the Sea of Clouds!
We’ve introduced the mystical phenomenon of the sea of clouds and selected seven must-visit spots where you might experience it. While seeing the sea of clouds depends on luck and timing, visiting these spots under the right conditions will increase your chances. When you visit Japan to see the sea of clouds, let this article guide you to a spiritually refreshing experience with these breathtaking views.
Comments