Japan's top 10 travel experiences in the sky
Your feet being in contact with the ground is a pretty fundamental aspect of walking, so the concept of going for a mid-air walk might sound like something you'd hear about from aspiring musicians or college freshmen philosophy majors. Today, though, it's Japanese travel provider Jalan that's broaching the subject, releasing its list of the top 10 places for 'a walk in the sky' in Japan.
So what's Jalan's criteria? It has to be somewhere with high altitude-related breathtaking views and/or thrilling activities. That means places like skyscraper observation decks, suspension bridges, and alpine cable cars/ropeways are all eligible, and to compile its list, Jalan collected survey responses from 1,036 of its users, aged 20 to 59, with each participant allowed to vote for up to three places.
10. Kobe Port Tower Rooftop Observatory
Website
Adjacent to Meriken Park on one side and Kobe's harbor on the other, Kobe Port Tower is a symbol of the city that offers beautiful views, with the best coming from its observation deck, the Brilliance Tiara Open-air Deck. It earns that opulent name, though, thanks to a 2024 renovation that now allows guests to get out in the open air 90.28 meters (296.2 feet) above the street for 360-degree views, and with Kobe boasting some of Japan's best after-sundown city-lights skyline scenery, it's worth a visit day or night.
9. Ryujin Suspension Bridge
Website
Continuing on to another place with a cool name, Ryujin means 'dragon god,' and this suspension bridge that crosses the Ryujin Gorge in Hitachiota, Ibaraki Prefecture, is fittingly dynamic. It's 375 meters across and, more importantly, 100 meters straight down to the river below, with clear acrylic viewing panes for you to look down through if you're brave enough…and if you're really courageous, you can bungee jump off the bridge too. Meanwhile, those who get enough adrenaline from the height alone can stay firmly on the bridge while admiring the surrounding forestland, which turns a beautiful shade of crimson in the fall.
8. Shibuya Sky
Website
We're back in the big city for Tokyo's Shibuya Sky, which refers specifically to the rooftop observation deck of the Shibuya Scramble Square entertainment complex high-rise. The building also has observation spaces on its 14th, 45th, and 46th floors, but it's Shibuya Sky that really puts you in the skies of downtown Tokyo's most popular international tourism district, and the unobstructed lines of sight from 229 meters up are a great place to watch the sun set and the neon lights of the city come on from.
7. Tateyama Ropeway
Website
Having trouble seeing to the other end of the route in that photo? That's because at 37 kilometers in length, Toyama Prefecture's Tateyama Ropeway is the longest single-span ropeway route in all of Japan, with no support beams in the middle so as to lesson the impact on the surrounding environment and keep the view as pristine as possible. The ropeway is part of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, a multi-mode-of-transportation linking the town of Tateyama with Omachi in Nagano Prefecture, and includes a stop at Kurobe Dam, Japan's largest dam, along the way.
6. Mt Hakodate Ropeway
Website
Hokkaido Prefecture's Hakodate is beautifully situated on a narrow strip of land with ocean on two sides and a mountain rising up on another. With few tall buildings within the town, the best way to appreciate its picturesque positioning is to take a ride on the cable car that whisks you up Mount Hakodate, and it's an especially popular date-night destination when the lights of the city twinkle like jewels.
5. Umeda Sky Building Kuchu Teien Observatory
Website
Osaka's Umeda Sky Building skyscraper sticks with the Japanese name for its observatory even in its official English-language documentation, but Kuchu Teien translates to 'midair garden.' The facility bridges the 39th and 40th floors of the twin-spire building, letting you see one of Japan's most vibrant cities below, gaze at Mount Rokko off in the distance of neighboring Hyogo Prefecture, and watch the planes coming and going at Osaka Airport.
4. Biwako Valley Zipline Adventure
Website
Looking at a map of Japan, it's hard to miss Shiga Prefecture's Lake Biwa ('Biwako' in Japanese), since the country's biggest lake sits right in the middle of the main island of Honshu. It's also hard to miss Lake Biwa while ziplining around Biwako Valley, an outdoor activity center at the summits of Mount Uchimi and Mount Horai. The center has a total of six zipline courses, but Line 6, the one pictured above, is the one you don't want to miss.
3. Yume no Tsuribashi
Website
Things are more relaxed at Yume no Tsuribashi ('the suspension bridge of dreams') in Haibara, Shizuoka Prefecture. Part of the Sumata Gorge Prominade Course nature walk, rather than gazing up at the sky above a walk across this bridge surrounds you with the colors or the river and forest. Ordinarily, it takes about 90 minutes to walk the course, but that's not accounting for time spent taking in the view, and taking photos, from the bridge, so you might want to allocate some extra time if you're visiting, and also maybe get an early start (the course's gate opens at 7 a.m.) if you want to encounter the smallest crowds.
2. Mishima Skywalk
Website
Also in Shizuoka is the massive Mishima Skywalk suspension bridge, which is 400 meters across, but if instead of walking all the way back you'd rather return by its 560-meter zipline course, that's also an option. The big draw here, though, is the view of Japan's biggest mountain, Mount Fuji, which isn't all that far away, and with Mishima being at the northern end of the Izu Peninsula, you can see Suruga Bay as well.
1. Akashi Kaikyo Bridge Bridge World
Website
When it was completed in 1998, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge finally linked Hyogo Prefecture's Awaji Island with Japan's main island of Honshu, crossing the Akashi Strait and coming ashore in Kobe. It also created an opportunity for incredible views like the one seen in the photo above. As you can probably guess, the spot where that picture was taken isn't part of the regular route across the bridge, as it's part of the Bridge Tower Top Tour that the facility offers. Yes, prior reservations are required, and there are a number of special safety precautions (such as all participants must be 13 years old or older), but fans say the extra trouble is worth it to see the scenery from 300 meters above sea level, making it the list's top pick for an unforgettable sky experience in Japan.
Source, images: PR Times
Read more stories from SoraNews24.
-- Japan's top 10 food travel destination prefectures【Survey】
-- Explore Japan's volcanic beauty at Hakone's latest attraction
-- Sorakaze: New Hakone sightseeing cruise boat on Lake Ashi is as stunning as the Mt Fuji views
External Link
https://soranews24.com/2025/06/22/japans-top-10-travel-experiences-in-the-sky%E3%80%90survey%E3%80%91/
© SoraNews24
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Tokyo Weekender
2 hours ago
- Tokyo Weekender
The Most Beautiful Japanese Gardens Beyond Kyoto
As Japan's cultural capital, Kyoto is synonymous with some of the country's most stunning traditional gardens. However, to limit your exploration of Japanese garden artistry to Kyoto would be to overlook a wealth of serene beauty and naturalistic harmony across lesser known prefectures. In fact, none of the 'Three Great Gardens of Japan' are in Kyoto. Read on to discover the most beautiful Japanese gardens and what makes them special. List of Contents: Three Great Gardens of Japan Beautiful Japanese Gardens in Tokyo Traditional Gardens To Visit Across Japan Related Posts Three Great Gardens of Japan Japan's 'Three Great Gardens' refers to Kenrokuen, Korakuen and Kairakuen, each with distinctly beautiful features and landscapes. All three were created by daimyo (feudal lords) during the Edo period, and feature the era's emblematic kaiyu (circuit) style design. The gardens are based around a central pond and meant for strolling, in comparison to zakanshiki gardens meant to be admired from indoor spaces. Kenrokuen Located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Kenrokuen was originally developed as the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle by the Maeda clan, who worked on it over hundreds of years. The landscape is celebrated for its adherence to the six essential attributes of a perfect garden: spaciousness, serenity, man-made elements, antiquity, abundant water and panoramic views. Hence, Kenrokuen means 'garden that combines six characteristics.' Visitors can wander through a meticulously crafted landscape featuring large ponds, meandering streams, diverse trees and flowering plants that offer seasonal beauty. There are also charming teahouses and iconic elements like the Kotoji stone lantern and the Flying Geese Bridge. Kenrokuen is accessible by bus from Kanazawa Station. Korakuen Located in Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture, Korakuen was constructed by the Ikeda family of Okayama Domain roughly 300 years ago. It initially served as a place for the daimyo to entertain important guests. The garden's layout emphasizes borrowed scenery, a key aesthetic concept that incorporates elements external to the garden — both natural and manmade — to its design. Okayama Castle and its surrounding hills become one with Korakuen's contours and textures in seamless harmony. A central pond with small islands, artificial hills, a tea plantation and even a rice field are all interconnected by walking paths that boast picturesque vistas at every turn. The Enyo-tei tea house offers a particularly beautiful and calm view of the garden. Kairakuen The third of Japan's Three Great Gardens is Kairakuen in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Kairakuen was established in 1842 by Tokugawa Nariaki, the ninth lord of the Mito domain. Its name translates to 'park to be enjoyed together,' which reflects its unique original purpose of being open to the public, not just nobility. While the garden is beautiful year-round, with a bamboo grove, cedar woods and seasonal flowers, it is most well-known for its spectacular plum blossoms in early spring. Home to approximately 3,000 plum trees of around 100 varieties, Kairakuen transforms into a vibrant display of white, pink and red from late February through March, and its Mito Plum Blossom Festival attracts visitors from far and wide. The garden also features the Kobuntei, a traditional Japanese-style historic residence offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Beautiful Japanese Gardens in Tokyo Among the most popular gardens to visit in Tokyo are the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and Shinjuku Gyoen. But there are far more spaces to explore — read on for some lesser-known, but equally enchanting Japanese gardens in Tokyo. Rikugien One of Tokyo's most beautiful traditional Japanese gardens, Rikugien exemplifies the tranquility of Edo period landscaping. It was designated as an important cultural asset and a site of exceptional beauty by the city of Tokyo in 1953. Compared to some of Tokyo's larger and well-trodden parks, the space retains an intimate and peaceful atmosphere. Depending on the month, the garden highlights the season's charming flora and fauna. Rikugien is known in particular for its weeping cherry tree, which typically blossoms in late March. There's also a Meiji-era teahouse, Tsutsuji-no-Chaya, which is surrounded by fiery red maples in the fall. Togetsukyo, a stone bridge named after a famous waka poem, is another unmissable sight. Hama-rikyu Gardens If you're visiting the Tsukiji Fish Market, we highly recommend stopping by this sprawling landscaped garden. Hama-rikyu Gardens, which stands in serene contrast to the towering skyscrapers of the adjacent Shiodome district, was originally a villa and duck hunting grounds for the shogun during the Edo period. It opened to the public in 1946. The garden's most distinctive feature is its large, central seawater pond, Shioiri-no-ike, which draws water directly from Tokyo Bay. Visitors can enjoy a cup of matcha tea and traditional sweets at the Nakajima Tea House, which seemingly floats on the pond. The garden is also home to a magnificent 300-year-old black pine tree and seasonal flower fields, including plum blossoms, canola flowers and cosmos. Kiyosumi Gardens Located near the trendy, cafe-laden neighborhood of Kiyosumi Shirakawa, Kiyosumi Gardens showcases a glistening pond surrounded by lush greenery and distinctive rocks, referred to as meiseki. Designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, the garden is known for its Japanese black pine trees and hydrangeas in the summer. In the winter, you will see peonies and camellias. Much like Rikugien, the space sees fewer tourists than more well-known parks, making it a good choice for those who want a private yet scenic setting. Traditional Gardens To Visit Across Japan For those traveling in prefectures beyond Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, we highly recommend stopping by these stunning, treasured gardens. Adachi Museum Gardens The Adachi Museum of Art in Yasugi city, Shimane Prefecture, is renowned for its harmonious integration of art and nature. Founded in 1970 by local businessman Zenko Adachi, the museum houses a significant collection of modern Japanese paintings, including over 120 works by the prominent artist Yokoyama Taikan, alongside ceramics, wood carvings and other Japanese artworks. Arguably its most celebrated feature is its vast and meticulously maintained Japanese gardens. Spread over 165,000 square meters, it has various sub-gardens, including the Dry Landscape Garden, Moss Garden, Pond Garden and White Gravel and Pine Garden. When viewed from the museum, the landscape creates 'living framed paintings' and 'living hanging scrolls' through strategically placed windows that blend seasonal scenery with the interior art displays. Suizenji Garden Suizenji Garden is an enchanting strolling garden located in Kumamoto City. Built in the 17th century by the Hosokawa clan, the ruling lords of Kumamoto, it's designed to evoke the 53 post stations of the historic Tokaido Road that once connected Edo (present-day Tokyo) with Kyoto, complete with a miniature Mount Fuji and other iconic landscapes. The garden's central pond is fed by natural springs from Mount Aso, known for their exceptionally clear water, which adds to the garden's tranquility. Stroll along the circular path while gazing at the meticulously maintained miniature landscapes, including a picturesque arched bridge. A charming teahouse, the Kokindenju-no-ma, lets visitors savor matcha and traditional sweets while overlooking the garden. Izumi Shrine, located within the garden and dedicated to the Hosokawa clan, is another key site to admire. Banryu-tei Garden at Kongobu-ji The Banryu-tei Garden — 'Garden of the Guardian Dragons' — at Kongobu-ji Temple is situated in Koyasan in Wakayama Prefecture, a sacred and secluded monastic complex. It is known as Japan's largest karesansui (dry rock garden), and was completed in 1984. Its design features 140 granite stones, arranged within a bed of immaculately raked white gravel, depicting a pair of dragons emerging from a swirling sea of clouds — symbolizing their protection of the temple. The temple complex was founded in 816 by Kobo Daishi, who established Kongobu-ji as a headquarter of the Shingon sect of esoteric Buddhism after studying in China. At the entrance, you can spot the paulownia flower insignia, the crest of the Toyotomi clan. The story goes that a monk named Ogo (also known as Mokujiki Shonin) prevented Toyotomi Hideyoshi from attacking and destroying Koyasan in the late 16th century, instead inspiring him to build what was then known as Seiganji Temple in memory of his late mother. Kitabatake Samurai Gardens The Kitabatake Samurai Gardens, located within the grounds of Kitabatake Shrine in Tsu city, Mie Prefecture, are a rare and historically significant example of a warrior-class garden. Designated a national scenic spot and historical landmark, this ornamental garden is believed to have been designed by the warrior Hosokawa Takakuni around 1528-1531, and showcases the refined aesthetics of the Kitabatake clan, a powerful noble family with imperial ties. Despite a violent past — the site of a massacre that led to the clan's downfall at the hands of Oda Nobunaga's son — the gardens today offer a calm and contemplative atmosphere, featuring intricate stone arrangements, a complex pond shape, small bridges and ancient stone lanterns, designed to be appreciated in all four seasons. The spot is particularly lovely surrounded by vibrant spring greenery or autumnal foliage. Sankeien Garden Sankeien Garden is a sprawling traditional garden in Yokohama that originally was the private residence of wealthy silk merchant Tomitaro Hara (known as Sankei Hara). It opened to the public in 1906. Spanning approximately 175,000 square meters (45 acres), it's distinguished not only by its meticulously designed ponds, streams and walking paths, but also by its remarkable collection of 17 historic buildings. Many of these are Important Cultural Properties relocated from various parts of Japan, including Kyoto and Kamakura. Sankeien thoughtfully integrates elements such as a three-story pagoda, tea houses, residential houses and a temple hall into the landscape and foliage, creating a harmonious scene that transforms with each season. If you are visiting Yokohama for the day, the garden serves as a wonderful place to unwind and connect with nature. It's especially famed for its breathtaking fall foliage, which shrouds the garden in a fiery haze and blankets its paths with golden carpets. Related Posts 8 of the Most Beautiful Parks & Gardens in Tokyo The Most Beautiful Libraries in Japan Best Places To Visit in Kyushu: Nature, Cities and Hidden Gems
The Mainichi
8 hours ago
- The Mainichi
Japanese police seek info on French woman who vanished 7 years ago
UTSUNOMIYA, Japan (Kyodo) -- Japanese police on Monday renewed calls for information about a French woman who disappeared seven years ago during a trip to a tourist spot north of Tokyo. Officers distributed flyers around Tobu Nikko Station and JR Nikko Station in Tochigi Prefecture, seeking details on the whereabouts of Tiphaine Veron after she went missing on July 29, 2018, at the age of 36. "I am grateful that the police are distributing flyers," said Veron's brother Damien, 45, who also took part in handing them out. "I want the investigation to continue and for her to be found." According to police, Veron went missing a day after checking in at her accommodation in Nikko, leaving her luggage and passport in her room. The flyers were handed out in Japanese, French, English and Chinese. "We hope that the flyers will spark interest," said Miko Obuchi, an official the Tochigi prefectural police. "The number of tips we receive has been decreasing every year, so we want everyone to check their smartphones for any photos that might provide clues about Ms. Veron." She is about 165 centimeters in height with brown hair. Information can be provided to the Nikko Police Station at 0288-53-0110.
Tokyo Weekender
10 hours ago
- Tokyo Weekender
Two Unique Japanese Hotels That Redefine Luxury
Japan is rife with accommodation options, and there are myriad ways to enjoy a stay that feels quintessentially Japanese, whether that means retreating to a centuries-old ryokan nestled in a quiet onsen town, or checking into an elegant, design-driven hotel in the heart of the capital. The pace may shift, and the scenery may change, but the sense of being deeply, thoughtfully cared for stays the same. For those seeking to immerse themselves in tranquil natural surroundings and centuries-old craftsmanship, Ochiairo (stylized as OCHIAIRO) — a luxury ryokan inn in the hot spring town of Shuzenji Onsen — offers a breathtaking escape. Meanwhile, if your plans keep you in the fast-paced capital, The Aoyama Grand Hotel (stylized as THE AOYAMA GRAND HOTEL) provides a stylish mid-century modern oasis right in the heart of Tokyo. Both properties offer distinct yet equally indulgent experiences, delivering comfort and charm that linger long after your stay. Ochiairo: A Timeless Retreat in Historic Shuzenji Onsen Nestled in the mountains of Izu, where two rivers quietly converge, Ochiairo is more than just a ryokan — it's a journey into history, artistry and nature. Founded in the late 19th century and now recognized as a registered tangible cultural property, Ochiairo's architecture and ambiance reflect a rich legacy of Japanese craftsmanship and serene living. From the moment you step into its lovingly preserved corridors, surrounded by the soft scent of incense and the warmth of fine wooden furnishings, you sense a shift: time slows, your senses sharpen and the outside world gently fades away. An Architectural Marvel The main building is a masterpiece of traditional architecture, crafted from rare materials such as black persimmon and rosewood. Much of the building, including the dining room and the grand hall, is designed in the elegant sukiya style, which was originally intended for classical tea houses, exuding a refined yet warmly intimate atmosphere. From the wooden kiriko inlaid windows to the precisely joined beams, every detail bears the mark of master artisanship. A Hotel Meant to be Explored Set within an impressive 13,000 square meters, Ochiairo invites guests to explore its grounds at a leisurely pace. Stroll through the traditional Japanese garden and cross the striking bridge outside, all while listening to the soothing rush of the river below. Later, soak in one of three hot spring baths, each offering a unique way to experience the renowned waters of Shuzenji Onsen. Unwind in an award-winning sauna, then relax by the lounge fireplace with complimentary local drinks and snacks. At Ochiairo, quiet moments come naturally — inviting you to savor both the elegant architecture and surrounding nature as if in your own private villa. Izu's Culinary Delights The sensory journey continues with meals that celebrate the flavors of Izu. Ochiairo's kitchen crafts kaiseki cuisine that showcases the freshness and delicate complexity of local ingredients, from seasonal sashimi to Amagi shamo chicken grilled over glowing charcoal. Ochiairo is ideal for travelers seeking not just luxury, but presence — a deep connection to nature, heritage and oneself. Whether soaking in the onsen, resting in a room hand-built over a century ago or savoring an exquisitely prepared meal, you're doing so in harmony with the land and the legacy of the region. The Aoyama Grand Hotel: Mid-Century Modern Elegance in the Heart of Tokyo Meanwhile, in Tokyo's fashionable Minato district, The Aoyama Grand Hotel offers a distinct yet equally unforgettable experience. Built on the historic site of the former Bell Commons, once a symbol of Tokyo's style and culture, the hotel reinterprets that golden era for today's discerning travelers. Your Own Vintage Mansion in Tokyo Inspired by mid-century design and the nearby Victor Studio — a legendary recording space favored by artists and celebrities — the hotel carries a quiet thread of pop culture throughout its interiors. Plush textures, vintage tones and nostalgic silhouettes create a space that's not just impressive but warmly inviting. The guest rooms are spacious and thoughtfully styled, featuring large windows, carefully curated furnishings and the comfort of a private city apartment. Dining Options for Every Occasion Dining is a cornerstone of the experience at The Aoyama Grand Hotel, with several acclaimed venues all under one roof. Start your day at The Belcomo (stylized as THE BELCOMO), the hotel's global all-day dining spot, where brunch options include standout dishes like fluffy pancakes and Thai massaman curry. For lunch, head to Tonkatsu Junchan, led by Michelin-starred chef Jun Kurogi. Here, melt-in-your-mouth tonkatsu is served with classic condiments and rich curry that highlights the natural umami of the pork. By evening, the same space transforms into Shikaku, an elegant Japanese restaurant that celebrates seasonal ingredients and showcases the depth of Tokyo's culinary scene. For Italian fine dining, Rossi on the top floor offers a peaceful trattoria atmosphere with an open kitchen and authentic recipes crafted from the finest seasonal ingredients. With spacious seating and stunning night views of the city, Rossi provides an ideal setting for special occasions. The Aoyama Grand Hotel's Iconic Rooftop Bar In the evening, head up to The Top., the hotel's rooftop bar with a lush, botanical vibe. It's a favorite spot for both guests and locals, thanks to its sweeping city views, colorful lights and exotic plants. The charcoal-free shisha adds a modern twist, turning the space into a relaxed tropical hideaway after dark. For business travelers, creatives or culture-seekers, The Aoyama Grand Hotel makes a wonderful base. Although it's located within walking distance of high-end boutiques, art galleries and iconic neighborhoods like Omotesando and Harajuku, the hotel provides a calm, well-designed retreat from the city's busy energy. Your Pace, Your Place Whether you're decompressing with an onsen soak in the mountains or sipping cocktails above the Tokyo skyline, Ochiairo and The Aoyama Grand Hotel redefine what it means to feel truly at home while traveling. One offers a slow, immersive retreat into Japanese tradition and nature; the other, a stylish, energized stay with a hint of vintage glamour. Luxury in Japan comes in many forms — and with these two exceptional properties, you get to have it your way. More Information To book a stay at Ochiairo, please visit its website . To book a stay at The Aoyama Grand Hotel, please visit its website .
