The Sea of Clouds at Mt. Jūbunichi

In autumn, when the temperature difference between day and night becomes more pronounced, Mt. Jūbunichi is often enveloped in a mystical sea of clouds.

On nights when the temperature drops sharply due to radiative cooling, cold water vapor accumulates in the Okitama Basin. As it condenses into droplets, vast clouds are formed, creating the phenomenon known as the “sea of clouds.”

No two views are ever the same, which is part of the rarity and charm that makes this spectacle so beloved.

Please note: As this is a natural phenomenon, visibility depends on weather conditions and cannot be guaranteed.

Mountain Excursions with Yamagata The Takinami

At Yamagata The Takinami, we invite our staying guests every morning to join our guided excursion, “Mountain Adventures with Yamagata The Takinami.”

We drive up to Mt. Jūbunichi, introducing interesting local spots in Nanyō along the way. As the car ascends the mountain road in the crisp morning air, the surrounding mountain ranges gradually come into view through the trees.

From the summit, guests can admire the majestic peaks of Mt. Zao, Mt. Azuma, the Iide Range, and the Asahi Range—four of Japan’s most renowned mountain landscapes.

[Reservation required / Free participation]
Please inform our staff when making your room reservation or at check-in.

The meeting and return times may vary depending on the season and weather conditions. Kindly confirm details with our front desk staff.

Schedule:

• 6:00 am – Meet in the lobby of Yamagata The Takinami

• 7:15 am – Return to the inn

Notes:

• The excursion will proceed even in light rain.

• Depending on wind conditions, the activity generally takes about one hour per guest from departure to return. Please allow extra time when joining as a group.

• Please bring a warm jacket if temperatures are expected to be low.

• Rubber boots are available for rent (limited supply).

• During the snowy season, when the road to the summit is closed, we will guide you to an alternative scenic spot instead.

We invite you to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime moment, available only here and only at this time of year.