【Gozaisho Ropeway】One of Japan’s premier ropeways, offering breathtaking views in every season

Spectacular Seasonal Views from the Gondola

One of the highlights of the Gozaisho Ropeway is the “White Iron Tower,” the tallest ropeway tower in Japan. From inside the gondola, you can also enjoy searching for uniquely shaped rock formations and wildlife on the mountainside as you admire the scenery below.

Above all, the landscape of Mount Gozaisho is stunning in every season.

Spring:
A variety of plants bloom, including vibrant pink Akayashio azaleas. The sight of flowers blooming from the foothills all the way to the summit is truly breathtaking.

Summer:
Temperatures are about 10°C cooler than in the lowlands, with average daytime highs around 20–21°C. It’s the perfect escape from the city heat, allowing you to relax and refresh in nature. You may also spot red dragonflies that migrate here seeking cooler air.

Autumn:
Fall foliage is the main attraction. Because the mountain changes color at different elevations, the peak season progresses gradually from the summit to the mid-slope and finally to the hot spring town below. Reds from azaleas, yellows from camphor trees, and greens from conifers create a vibrant tapestry that unfolds over about a month.

Winter:
On certain days when weather conditions are just right, you can witness rare “ice trees” (frost-covered trees). From January to February, the natural ice formations transform the mountain into a stunning silver-white wonderland.

Mount Gozaisho is known as a year-round destination. A gondola ride through its magnificent natural surroundings feels like a walk in the sky, with the mountain offering a different expression not only each season, but each day.

Leisurely Stroll or Full Hiking Experience

At the summit area, Gozaisho Mountain Park offers various sightseeing and photography spots. There are two main types of courses:

Strolling Course:
Ideal for visitors who want to see the highlights but have limited time or energy. You can use the sightseeing lift to reach the summit and easily explore the main attractions.

Hiking Course:
Perfect for those who want to take their time and fully enjoy the scenery on foot. Unlike rugged mountain trails, most of the route consists of well-maintained walking paths, so sneakers are sufficient.

Restaurants with Signature Dishes and Panoramic Views

After reaching the summit by ropeway, stop by one of the two restaurants:

• Observation Restaurant “Nature” – Enjoy your meal while overlooking Ise Bay.
• Restaurant “Alpen Hall” – Dine with views of the Mount Gozaisho summit. A wide range of takeout options is also available, including soft-serve ice cream and Gohei-mochi (grilled rice skewers with sweet miso sauce).

A must-try at either restaurant is the specialty “Gozaisho Curry Udon.”
This dish features Mie’s famous chewy Ise udon noodles coated in rich curry sauce, topped with tender braised pork belly packed with collagen. It’s a popular choice with both men and women.

At Observation Restaurant “Nature,” you’ll also find Instagram-worthy pancakes and soft-serve ice cream inspired by the ropeway’s mascot characters, Blanc and Lumiere.

Exclusive Souvenirs You Can Only Find Here

Both the summit and base stations have shops offering souvenirs, climbing badges, and original Gozaisho merchandise.

At the base station souvenir shop “Belle Foret,” you’ll find a wide selection of ropeway- and Mount Gozaisho-themed products. Popular items include:

• An original Takara Tomy “Choro-Q” miniature ropeway car (the first of its kind in Japan)
• A Gozaisho Ropeway original puzzle featuring seasonal views from the gondola

Mascot character goods are also available—perfect as keepsakes or gifts.

At the base station, you’ll also find mont-bell room Gozaisho Store, offering mountaineering gear and exclusive collaboration items such as original Gozaisho T-shirts available only at this location. Sizes range from children’s to adults’, making matching family outfits a fun option.

Souvenirs are also sold at Alpen Hall on the summit. Since the product selection differs between the summit and base stations, be sure to explore both.