Japan's Famous Night Views: 5 Spectacular Locations

From the north to the south, Japan offers spectacular night views! Awe-inspiring city lights shimmer under beautiful starry skies along coastal fronts, showcasing the country's incredible landmarks, unique terrane, and fascinating infrastructure.

In this article, we introduce the top 5 night views in Japan, three of which are famously known as the "ten million dollar night views" and have gained international attention due to their beauty!

5 Famous Night Views in Japan

1. Mount Moiwa - Sapporo
2. Mount Hakodate - Hakodate
3. Mount Rokko - Kobe and Osaka Bay Views
4. Mojiko Port - Kitakyushu
5. Mount Inasa - Nagasaki City Views

1. Mount Moiwa - Sapporo

Photo courtesy of Klook
Mount Moiwa is a popular destination that offers visitors a 360-degree panoramic vista of Sapporo and its surroundings. The mountain's elevated vantage point showcases the city lights glittering below, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere after dark.

At the summit, visitors can indulge in delightful take-out treats from The Jewels, a local restaurant, or enjoy dining there while taking in expansive views of the city sparkling below. Adjacent to the restaurant is a 360-degree panorama that overlooks Sapporo, featuring an illuminated diamond sculpture representing the summit. Within the area, guests can also experience Padlocks of Love, an interactive heart lock spot, along with the Bell of Happiness.

Heart lock pads are available for purchase at either of the ropeway station's stores. With its easy accessibility via ropeway or car and amenities like restaurants, Mount Moiwa ensures a convenient and enchanting experience for both locals and tourists, making it a standout destination for those seeking a memorable evening immersed in the beauty of Sapporo's night landscape.

2. Mount Hakodate - Hakodate

Photo by Pixta

Known for its Million Dollar Night View, Mount Hakodate in Hokkaido is renowned for its exceptional night vistas, towering over a captivating landscape that glistens like a sea of stars along the Tsugaru Strait.

At 334 meters, this mountain provides an impressive vantage point, showcasing unique geographical features alongside iconic landmarks and ever-changing seasonal colors.

Hakodate's layout, illuminated streets, and the peninsula's position enhance this picturesque scene, complemented by clear skies due to favorable weather conditions, making Mount Hakodate a mesmerizing destination where urban lights harmonize with nature.

Enthusiastic visitors, enchanted by the sight, can savor a romantic dinner at the summit's elegant restaurant, appreciating this unparalleled beauty. Additionally, souvenirs are available at the ropeway station's shops.

Accessing Mount Hakodate is convenient via the ropeway; guests can board the Mount Hakodate Ropeway Shuttle from Hakodate Station and relish breathtaking 360-degree views through the wide windows as they ascend the mountain, further enhancing the experience.

3. Mount Rokko - Kobe and Osaka Bay Views

Photo courtesy of Klook
Mount Rokko offers a remarkable vantage point with captivating night views of Kobe and Osaka's neon cityscapes. At its summit, visitors are treated to a mesmerizing sight of city lights sparkling along the coastal line, with opportunities for stargazing at Mount Rokko Star Plaza and the terrace.

Renowned for its panoramic vistas, Mount Rokko offers one of Japan's Three New Major Night Views. Strategically placed viewing platforms offer ideal spots to admire the spectacular night scene. The summit boasts charming facilities creating a miniature village in the clouds, guests can enjoy various dining options, shopping, golfing, hotels, a snow park, and the Nunobiki Herb Gardens.

Throughout the year, Mount Rokko's night view transforms with the seasons, offering unique experiences showcasing cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, and vibrant foliage in autumn. Easily accessible via a 12-minute ropeway ride from Arima Onsen, the mountain ensures a memorable journey through its ever-changing beauty across all seasons.

4. Mojiko Port - Kitakyushu

Photo by Pixta
Built in the early 1900s, Mojiko Retro, a part of the city's historically preserved port, consists of retro-western buildings and streets that add international charm to Kitakyushu City.

With excellent cuisine, illuminations, and shops, the port exudes a nostalgic charm with well-preserved buildings that are lit up after dusk, earning it the esteemed title of one of Japan's New Three Most Spectacular Night Views in 2022. The architectural beauty of landmarks like the Moji Customs Building set against the backdrop of the Kanmon Straits, creates a visually striking scene.

Thoughtful lighting design enhances the port's features, casting a mesmerizing glow on the waters and structures.

5. Mount Inasa - Nagasaki City Views

Photo by Pixta

Mount Inasa in Nagasaki is famous for its stunning night views, providing visitors with a panoramic spectacle of the city and its surroundings from a 333-meter elevated vantage point. Nagasaki's vibrant city lights illuminate the landscape, creating a mesmerizing display that extends across the bay and into the distant rolling mountains.

The mountain's 360-degree observation deck provides unobstructed views, allowing guests to immerse in the enchanting nighttime scenery and appreciate Nagasaki's unique landmarks and port. Special nighttime events and illuminations, such as the permanent beautiful LED lights installed along the mountain terrain, enhance the atmosphere by depicting star constellations, a dove, a dragon, and a heart with color-changing lights every 15 minutes.

Mount Inasa is easily accessible by ropeway or car and is renowned as one of Japan's Three New Major Night Views. Paired with other enchanting night spots like Megane Bridge at Nakashima River, Glover Garden, Oura Cathedral, and the annual Nagasaki Lantern Festival, Nagasaki is an ideal destination for those captivated by multicultural charm and beautiful nightscapes.

Take in Brilliant Night Views in Japan!

Photo by Pixta
Whether it is a trip up north to the snowy region of Hokkaido or a journey full of retro delight in Nagasaki, a visit to one of these beautiful locations is a great addition to your next trip!