The famous Kameoka Fog Terrace is engulfed in mist in the early hours of the morning in Japan’s cold seasons, except when I’m there…
I thought I’d done everything right when I woke up at 4 am in the morning on a freezing autumn day and trekked up to the Kameoka Fog Terrace. Yet, I still missed out on the epic scenery of a wilderness valley blanketed in pure white mist. Despite such a disappointing turn of events, the journey through Kameoka’s beautiful mountain ranges made it a worthwhile venture!
Stunning Autumn Leaves
Autumn is truly one of the most beautiful times of year in Japan, particularly in Kyoto where forests and mountains are in close proximity.
Starting my journey from Kameoka station, I decided to hike up to the Fog Terrace without taking a bus or taxi, as most travel websites advise.
The roads were mostly clear anyway, with a car passing by every 15 minutes or so. It was worth taking it nice and slow as I gave myself more time to enjoy the amazing golden leaves of Kyoto’s autumn.
Expectations
Vast open lands completely shrouded in a mysterious fog. Nothing in sight but the occasional peaks of mountaintops peering out of the clouds. Indeed, it is a sight to marvel at. This truly was an incredible billboard to gaze at.
Reality…(not bad tho!)
While it would’ve been amazing to see the entire valley covered in white fog, it is also quite charming to be able to see the small details of the villages and farmlands below. It can be a wild thought to think that it all gets engulfed in mist at certain times of the year.
At the very least, being scammed off the fog is not all doom and gloom. Making the journey to Kameoka Fog Terrace (or in this case, just “Kameoka Terrace”) will always be a worthwhile trek for the amazing views you get to enjoy at the top. Pack yourself a delicious lunch and have a lovely rest on the wooden seats of the observation deck as you soak in the natural landscape of Kameoka.
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!