Nothing beats the feeling of being on top of the world! These 5 observation decks in Japan are not only stunning but 100% free to access!
As a backpacker in Japan, one of my favorite hobbies is finding a high-altitude location where I can truly appreciate the city I’m in.
Instead of paying big bucks (or yen) to ride an elevator to the top of a building, I prefer to use my legs and walk to the highest points in town myself!
1. Mt. Komonji – Kitakyushu
Starting off the list with my personal favorite, we have an amazing view from the top of Mt. Komonji! Located on Japan’s southern island of Kyushu in the city of Kitakyushu, this observation deck offers the full package of mountains, cities, and oceans all in one!
The walk to the top is no easy one though, so make sure you’re physically prepared for some steep steps. Be sure to pack some lunch and liquids for your journey to the top, but I assure you once you get there, it’s an unforgettable view!
2. Horomitoge Lavender Garden – Sapporo
Heading up north on Japan’s island of Hokkaido, we have the infamous Horomitoge Lavender Garden in Sapporo. It may not look so lavender in this photo, but that’s the price you pay to see a beautifully bloomed sakura (cherry blossom) tree instead!
No matter what time of year it is, Horomitoge offers one of the best free observation decks in Japan. Unlike Mt. Komonji, this one is relatively easy to get to, about an hour’s walk from Maruyama Park with a gradual incline on the way up.
3. Mt. Moiwa – Sapporo
Sapporo is truly the town of free observation decks because another one of their gorgeous lookout points simply had to be on this list! Mt. Moiwa is a publicly accessible observation deck that can be accessed via cable car or on foot (I recommend the latter, otherwise it wouldn’t be free!).
Again, this route is about an hour’s walk from Maruyama Park, and about an equal level of difficulty to hike up as Horomitoge Lavender Garden. Once you get to the top, you will have access to the Mt. Moiwa souvenir shop, observation binoculars (fee required), a restaurant, a cafe, and free Wi-Fi!
4. Philosopher’s Path – Kyoto
Perhaps the easiest observation deck to reach on this list is the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto. In fact, most would seldom call it an observation deck as it’s not too high above the ground, but I think it deserves a spot for its picturesque scenery anyway!
Unlike the other observation decks, the Philosopher’s Path offers unique views just about the roofs of houses and buildings, giving you something of a “ninja” vibe. The path itself is quite beautiful from start to finish, but the view on the left is truly a sight to behold with the classic Japanese mountain backdrop, surrounding forests, and village-like atmosphere.
5. Aoba Castle – Sendai
Last but not least is the incredible (and free) viewpoint at the top of Aoba Castle in Sendai. A town that is rich in Edo history, it’s interesting to see how Sendai has developed from its daimyo days under the rule of Date Masamune to the modern city that still honors its roots.
This is also one of the easier observation decks to reach on foot, though there is a bit of an incline you must overcome on the way up! Regardless, the view from the top of Aoba Castle is quite impressive, and you’ll be able to see some of Sendai’s famous landmarks and Buddha statues if you know where to look!
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!