- Hokkaido’s Night View Journey by Camping Car: Showcasing Art of Light
- 1. Mount Hakodate Observatory (Hakodate City)
- 2. Ishikari Bay New Port Industrial Night View (Ishikari City)
- 3. Otaru Mount Tengu Observatory (Otaru City)
- 4. Asahiyama Memorial Park (Sapporo City)
- 5. Muroran Industrial Night View (Muroran City)
- Camping Car Travel Precautions
- Conclusion: Unforgettable Journey Painted with Hokkaido’s Night Views and Camping Cars
Hokkaido’s Night View Journey by Camping Car: Showcasing Art of Light
A journey through Hokkaido’s night views by camping car is an emotional experience where free movement and magnificent night scenery interweave. The jewel-like view from Mount Hakodate, the fantastical industrial night views spreading across Ishikari Bay, romantic lights reflecting in Otaru’s canals, the citywide spectacle enjoyed at Sapporo’s Asahiyama Memorial Park, and the dynamic night views of Muroran’s factories and port. The landscapes of light showing different expressions at each spot can be fully savored precisely because of the freedom of camping car travel. Today, we bring you the charm of a luxurious journey touring Hokkaido’s night view spots.
1. Mount Hakodate Observatory (Hakodate City)
Night View Features
The “Hakodate Night View” seen from Mount Hakodate is famous as one of Japan’s three major night views. The attractive carpet of lights spreading across the city’s narrow terrain formation is captivating. Reflections from the port and sea create an even more fantastical atmosphere.
Parking Points
You can use the parking lot near the Hakodate Ropeway base station, but early evening arrival is recommended due to expected congestion. The summit parking lot (paid) is also available.
Important Notes
When using the ropeway, check the final operating hours. Also, the road to the summit is narrow with many sharp curves, so careful driving is required for camping cars.
2. Ishikari Bay New Port Industrial Night View (Ishikari City)
Night View Features
Around Ishikari Bay New Port, you can enjoy fantastical scenery where lights from factories and warehouse complexes reflect on the sea surface. This is an irresistible spot for industrial night view enthusiasts.
Parking Points
There are several spacious parking areas in the Ishikari Bay New Port region. The “Ishikari Bay New Port Tarukawa Wharf Park” parking lot is particularly convenient and has nearby restroom facilities.
Important Notes
Since this is an industrial area, be careful not to approach restricted zones. Also, as many areas are extremely dark at night, carrying a flashlight provides peace of mind.
3. Otaru Mount Tengu Observatory (Otaru City)
Night View Features
A spot where you can overlook the beautiful night view created by Otaru’s streetscape and port. Street lights and ship lights create a warm and inviting scene.
Parking Points
You can use the Mount Tengu Ski Resort parking lot. The observatory is accessible by ropeway or on foot. Be aware of congestion during winter as it overlaps with ski resort users.
Important Notes
The ropeway’s final departure is early, so adjust your visit timing accordingly. Also, in winter, there’s heavy snow and slippery footing, so prepare non-slip shoes.
4. Asahiyama Memorial Park (Sapporo City)
Night View Features
A hilltop park overlooking the Sapporo city area, it’s an optimal spot for enjoying urban night views. The scenery toward Sapporo Station and Odori Park is particularly magnificent.
Parking Points
There’s a free parking lot within the park. However, it tends to fill up on weekends and during tourist seasons, so early arrival is better.
Important Notes
Since you’ll be driving up mountain roads, be careful of slippery surfaces on days with bad weather. The area around the observatory can be windy, so don’t forget cold weather protection.
5. Muroran Industrial Night View (Muroran City)
Night View Features
Muroran’s industrial night view is famous for the majestic light emitted by large-scale plant complexes in the industrial zone. The scenery viewed from around Hakucho Bridge is particularly spectacular.
Parking Points
You can use parking lots at “Hakucho Bridge Viewpoint” or “Michi-no-Eki Mitara Muroran.” Both provide walking access to night view spots.
Important Notes
Since there’s vehicle traffic around the industrial area at night, confirm surrounding safety when parking or photographing. Also, bringing warm clothing is recommended.
Camping Car Travel Precautions
For camping car travel in Hokkaido, keeping the following points in mind will ensure comfort:
- Check fuel stations: Especially on mountain roads and in industrial areas, gas stations may be scarce.
- Prepare thoroughly for cold weather: Hokkaido nights can be cold regardless of season.
- Utilize maps and GPS: Since signal reception may be poor on mountain roads and in industrial areas, check routes in advance.
Conclusion: Unforgettable Journey Painted with Hokkaido’s Night Views and Camping Cars
Mount Hakodate, Ishikari Bay’s industrial night views, Otaru, Sapporo’s Asahiyama Memorial Park, and Muroran. The Hokkaido night views enjoyed at each spot boast heart-stirring beauty. By utilizing a camping car, movement and accommodation become free, allowing you to fully savor time immersed in night views to your heart’s content. This journey combining daytime sightseeing with nighttime spectacular views is sure to deliver special moments to you. Using this article as reference, please experience Hokkaido’s night view tour with a camping car. A new journey of emotion begins amidst the sparkling lights. If you’re planning night view tours with camping cars, please also check out this article on preparation and photography techniques.
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