- Akaigawa Caldera Observatory
- Highlights of Akaigawa Caldera Observatory (Hiyamizu Pass) — Best Scenic Views & Sea of Clouds
- Access ＋ FAQ
- Nearby Spots (by Category)
- New Hotels (within 3 years)
- Recommended Hotels 3 Picks
- Mori no Terrace (Hinode, Akaigawa)
- Hirune no Sato (Akaigawa center)
- Pension Akaigawa (Akaigawa center)
- Nearby Hotel (outside village)
- Conclusion
Akaigawa Caldera Observatory
Hi there! Today I visited the Akaigawa Caldera Observatory (Hiyamizu Pass) 😊
It’s a quiet viewpoint where you can overlook the caldera landscape — and on the right morning, catch a magical sea of clouds☁️
This time, I couldn’t catch the dramatic sea of clouds, but a calm and serene view stretched before me✨When the clouds roll in, the whole valley turns dreamlike. I’m keen to try again — and I’ll add a sample sea-of-clouds photo here for inspiration! 🌿
Highlights of Akaigawa Caldera Observatory (Hiyamizu Pass) — Best Scenic Views & Sea of Clouds
Best chance for a sea of clouds 🌤
- Caldera terrain can trap cool air and mist
- Best window: early morning in summer–autumn
- Look for clear skies, calm wind, radiational cooling
- Arrive before sunrise; golden hour is ideal
- Bring warm layers and grippy shoes
- Be mindful of others; protect plants and shoulders
Quiet charm of the old road 🚗
- A small pullover viewpoint on the old Hiyamizu road
- Low traffic, but watch the curves and pullouts
- Parking is limited — share and be considerate
- After rain or at night, surfaces can be slick
- Use headlights/reflectors for visibility
- Watch for wildlife crossing
Four-season color palette 🍃🍁
- Lush greens from late spring through summer
- Autumn delivers a rich tapestry of colors
- Morning mist adds a dreamy layer
- On clear days, ridgelines pop with contrast
- Wind chill can bite — pack a windbreaker
- Dress for the season; add an extra layer
Nearby treats & breaks 🍦
- Yamanaka Dairy soft-serve along Route 393
- Michi-no-Eki Akaigawa for local produce & snacks
- Use restrooms at nearby facilities
- Pack it in, pack it out — no littering
- Bring water and quick snacks
- Cell reception can be spotty
Safety & etiquette matter 🙌
- Keep shoulder parking short; rotate fairly
- Place tripods off the driving line
- Check local rules before flying drones
- Pre-dawn: bring a light and a bell
- Respect closures; protect vegetation
- Leave the spot cleaner than you found it
Access ＋ FAQ
Access
📍 Google Maps: Akaigawa Caldera Observatory (Hiyamizu Pass)
- Location: Near Hinode, Akaigawa Village, Hiyamizu Pass old road
- By car: Take Route 393 → switch to the old Hiyamizu road. Narrow curves; drive carefully.
- Parking: Free spaces nearby, limited capacity (please share considerately).
- Winter: Road closures from November to early May — check conditions in advance.
FAQ
Q. When is the best season?
A. Early morning in summer to autumn gives the best chance of sea of clouds, especially on clear, calm days with radiational cooling.
Q. Is it accessible in winter?
A. Some local roads are closed from November to early May. Always check the latest road conditions before your trip.
Q. Where can I park?
A. There is a small free parking area nearby, but space is limited. Shoulder parking should be short and safe.
Q. Are there restrooms?
A. No official restrooms at the observatory. Use facilities at Michi-no-Eki Akaigawa or other stops before/after visiting.
Q. Is it family-friendly?
A. Yes, but keep an eye on kids near road edges. Hold hands and watch for passing vehicles on the old road.
Q. Can I fly a drone?
A. Check aviation laws, road rules, and local regulations. Always respect safety and privacy.
Nearby Spots (by Category)
① Gourmet
Yamanaka Dairy
- Type: Dairy & Soft-serve
- Address: 478 Ochiai, Akaigawa Village (Route 393)
- Highlight 1: Famous rich soft-serve, perfect for a drive break
- Highlight 2: Convenient stop from the observatory
- Note: Hours vary seasonally
- Map: View on Google Maps
Michi-no-Eki Akaigawa
- Type: Roadside station (produce, snacks, restrooms)
- Address: 356-1 Tokiwa, Akaigawa Village
- Highlight 1: Local veggies and processed goods available
- Highlight 2: Perfect rest stop and info hub
- Note: Check schedule before visiting
- Map: View on Google Maps
② Activities
AKAIGAWA TOMO PLAYPARK
- Type: Outdoor park / Activities
- Area: Akaigawa Village, Meiji area
- Highlight 1: Easy camping & outdoor programs
- Highlight 2: Great for family fun
- Note: Dates & prices vary by season
- Map: View on Google Maps
A-Brand Golf Club
- Type: Golf (18 holes)
- Address: 2361-1 Noboricho, Yoichi Town
- Highlight 1: Hillside course with wide views
- Highlight 2: Hotel attached, day use & stay
- Note: Closed in winter, icy roads possible
- Map: View on Google Maps
③ Scenic
Kenashi Pass Scenic Point
- Type: Mountain pass viewpoint
- Area: Border of Akaigawa & Otaru
- Highlight 1: Stunning ridge panorama
- Highlight 2: Summer gondola rides nearby
- Note: Confirm operation & road status in advance
- Map: View on Google Maps
④ Camping
AKAIGAWA TOMO PLAYPARK｜Camp Field
- Type: Camping / Glamping
- Area: Akaigawa Village, Meiji area
- Highlight 1: Unique “JYUBAKO” tiny houses
- Highlight 2: River play & nature experiences
- Note: Reservation required
- Map: View on Google Maps
🔍 Klook | 🔍 Hotels.com | 🔍 Expedia
New Hotels (within 3 years)
-
Club Med Kiroro Grand (Opened Dec 2023)
Guests: Families / Couples / Multi-generationFacilities: Onsen, sauna, indoor pool, kids’ facilitiesLocation: Tokiwa area, Akaigawa Village (Kiroro)Rates: All-inclusive (seasonal variation)Dining: Buffet & specialty restaurantsOther: Onsen available, wide activities -
Club Med Kiroro Peak (Opened Dec 2022)
Guests: Adults only (12+), quiet retreatFacilities: Spa, open-air bath, loungesLocation: Tokiwa area, Akaigawa Village (Kiroro)Rates: All-inclusive (seasonal variation)Dining: Buffet & barOther: Onsen & seasonal activities
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Recommended Hotels 3 Picks
Mori no Terrace (Hinode, Akaigawa)
- Guests: Families, groups, training camps
- Facilities: 10 rooms, capacity 40
- Location: Hinode, near Akaigawa Caldera Observatory
- Rates: Check official site / phone
- Dining: Ask directly
- Other: Nearest onsen – Caldera Onsen
- Phone: 0135-34-7227
- Website: Official site
- Map: View on Google Maps
Hirune no Sato (Akaigawa center)
- Guests: Slow-stay travelers, foodies
- Facilities: 3 rooms, capacity 8
- Location: Village center, quiet surroundings
- Rates: Check official site / phone
- Dining: Homemade bacon & local produce
- Other: Onsen nearby
- Phone: 0135-34-6232
- Website: Official site
- Map: View on Google Maps
Pension Akaigawa (Akaigawa center)
- Guests: Families, small groups
- Facilities: 7 rooms, capacity 24
- Location: Village center, good base for sightseeing
- Rates: Check official site / phone
- Dining: Ask directly
- Other: Caldera Onsen within walking distance
- Phone: 0135-34-6686
- Website: Official site
- Map: View on Google Maps
Nearby Hotel (outside village)
A-Brand Hotel (Yoichi, Noboricho)
- Guests: Golf travelers, couples, friends
- Facilities: Hotel, restaurant, hot spring bath, spa
- Location: Noboricho, Yoichi (attached to A-Brand Golf Club)
- Rates: Check official / booking sites
- Dining: In-house restaurant
- Other: Popular for golf + stay packages
- Phone: Not listed publicly
- Website: Official site
- Map: View on Google Maps
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Conclusion
Akaigawa Caldera Observatory (Hiyamizu Pass) is a quiet scenic spot with seasonal views and, if you’re lucky, a sea of clouds. Combine it with nearby hot springs, local gourmet, and village stays for a complete Hokkaido experience✨
Wrapped in Akaigawa’s nature, you’ll surely feel “It was worth it!”. Drive safe, respect nature, and enjoy your trip 🚗🌿
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