Japan is a country known for its stunning landscapes and iconic mountains. To explore these natural beauties, cable cars have become one of the most popular and practical ways. These aerial transport systems provide incredible panoramic views, connecting visitors to hard-to-reach places, such as mountain peaks, hot springs, and national parks. In addition to functioning as means of transport, cable cars are also tourist attractions in their own right, with spectacular views throughout all seasons of the year.
In this article, we will explore the main cable cars in Japan, their locations, what makes them unique, and why you should include them in your itinerary.
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Cable Cars in Japan: Overview
The Japanese cable cars (also known as “ropeways”) are spread throughout the country, from Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south. They serve various roles, such as facilitating access to remote areas and offering an unforgettable tourist experience. Many cable cars have been strategically installed in famous mountains, tourist spots, and national parks.
In Japan, cable cars are called sakudō (索道), which can be literally translated as “Rope Path” and encompasses any type of aerial transport by cable. Colloquially, the Japanese refer to cable cars as elevators (rifuto – リフト) and also as gondolas (kēburukā – ケーブルカー).
Features of Japanese Cable Cars:
- Modern Design: Most are equipped with spacious and comfortable cabins designed to offer panoramic views.
- Advanced Safety: Cable cars in Japan follow strict safety standards.
- Accessibility: Many are accessible for people with reduced mobility, including the elderly and wheelchair users.
Now, let’s dive into the regional highlights of Japan’s most popular cable cars.
Zao Ropeway
Located in the Yamagata region, the Zao Ropeway covers a distance of 1.8 km, ascending 806 meters in a 14-minute ride. This cable car is famous for its “frozen trees”, a phenomenon that occurs in winter when the trees are covered with ice formations. The name “Zao” refers to the mountain of the same name, an area rich in hot springs and natural views.
Komagatake Ropeway
In the Central Alps, the Komagatake Ropeway takes visitors to an altitude of 950 meters, traversing 2.3 km in just 7 minutes and 30 seconds. Its name, “Komagatake,” means “horse peak,” referring to a local legend about horses that inhabited the mountains. This is an ideal spot to observe the Japanese Alps and, on clear days, Mount Fuji.
Shinhotaka Ropeway
Located in Gifu Prefecture, the Shinhotaka Ropeway is the first two-story cable car in Japan. It covers two sections: one of 573 meters and another of 2.6 km, with a total elevation of 848 meters. The ride lasts about 12 minutes and offers spectacular views of the Northern Alps. The name “Shinhotaka” alludes to the Hotaka area, famous for its mountains and hot springs.
Tateyama Ropeway
Part of the famous Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, the Tateyama Ropeway covers 1.6 km, ascending 488 meters in a 7-minute ride. The name “Tateyama” means “standing mountain,” referring to its imposing shape and spiritual connection to nature. This cable car offers stunning views of the Tateyama mountains and is highly sought after in spring when visitors can see the famous snow walls.
Tanigawadake Ropeway
On Mount Tanigawa, in Gunma, the Tanigawadake Ropeway covers 2.3 km in 10 minutes, ascending 573 meters. “Tanigawadake” means “mountain of the river in the valley,” representing the landscapes formed by rivers that cut through the mountains of the region. It is a popular destination in autumn when the leaves tint the mountains in golden and red hues.
Kurodake Ropeway
Located in Hokkaido, the Kurodake Ropeway takes visitors to an elevation of 629 meters, covering 1.6 km in about 7 minutes. The name “Kurodake” means “black mountain,” reflecting the dark color of the rocks in the area. This cable car is the gateway to Daisetsuzan National Park, known for its trails and volcanic views.
Kankakei Ropeway
On Shodoshima Island, the Kankakei Ropeway passes through the Kankakei gorge, covering 917 meters in 5 minutes and ascending 312 meters. “Kankakei” means “valley of splendid views,” a name that perfectly describes the landscapes of dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, especially in autumn.
Hakone Komagatake Ropeway
The Hakone Komagatake Ropeway, in the Hakone region, covers 3.9 km in a 7-minute ride, ascending 579 meters. Its name combines “Komagatake” (mountain of the horse) with “Hakone,” an area known for its hot springs and proximity to Mount Fuji. It is one of the best options for views of Lake Ashi and Fuji.
Hakkoda Ropeway
In northern Japan, the Hakkoda Ropeway, in Aomori, covers 2.4 km in 10 minutes, ascending 650 meters. “Hakkoda” means “eight peaks,” referring to the interconnected mountains that form the area. This cable car is famous for its autumn foliage landscapes and hiking trails.
Gozaisho Ropeway
In Mie Prefecture, the Gozaisho Ropeway ascends 780 meters in a 12-minute ride, covering 2.1 km. The name “Gozaisho” refers to Mount Gozaisho, known for its panoramic views and rich biodiversity. Ise Bay can be seen from the top, creating an impressive contrast between sea and mountain.
Miyajima Ropeway
The Miyajima Ropeway, located on Miyajima Island, connects visitors to Mount Misen. It covers 1.6 km in about 10 minutes, ascending 330 meters. “Miyajima” means “island of the shrine,” a reference to the famous floating Torii of Itsukushima Shrine. This cable car offers views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding islands.
Unpenji Ropeway
Located in Kan’onji, Kagawa, the Unpenji Ropeway stands out for having the longest free span between towers in Japan, covering a distance of 1.9 km. It connects visitors to Unpenji Temple, one of the 88 temples of the famous Shikoku pilgrimage. The name “Unpenji” means “Temple of Clouds and Moon,” reflecting its location at a high altitude that often crosses the clouds.
Yoshino Ropeway
Situated in Yoshino, Nara, this is the oldest operating cable car in Japan, inaugurated in 1929. It connects the city of Yoshino to Mount Yoshino, famous for its cherry blossoms (sakura) that bloom in spring. The name “Yoshino” refers to the region, a place of great historical and cultural significance in Japan, associated with poetry and spirituality.
Awashima Kaijō Ropeway
This unique cable car is located in Numazu, Shizuoka, and was the first maritime cable car in Japan. It spans 500 meters over the ocean, connecting the mainland to Awashima Island, famous for its aquarium and stunning views of Suruga Bay and Mount Fuji. The name “Awashima” means “Island of Awa,” reflecting its insular identity.
Biwako Valley Ropeway
Located on the shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga, this cable car is known for being the fastest in Japan, operating at a speed of 12 meters per second. It takes visitors to Biwako Valley, a ski resort and hiking area. The name “Biwako” refers to Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, while “Valley” describes the mountainous area in which it is located.
Hachikō Ropeway
Located in the city of Hachimantai, Akita, this cable car connects visitors to hiking trails and ski areas on Mount Hachimantai. “Hachikō” is a combination of “Hachi” (eight) and “Ko” (peak), highlighting the various peaks that make up this mountain range. It offers incredible panoramic views, especially in autumn.
Mount Takao Ropeway
The Mount Takao Ropeway, located near Tokyo, connects the base to the middle of Mount Takao, a mountain known for its trails and religious significance. It is used as an alternative for those who wish to reduce the physical effort of the climb. “Takao” means “High Mountain,” reflecting the elevation of the region.
Iya Valley Ropeway
Located in the remote Iya Valley, in Tokushima, this cable car is a unique attraction, providing views of a steep gorge. It is mainly used to access the famous hot springs in the region, including one that is located at the end of a 200-meter path. “Iya” refers to the isolated valley, known for its traditional suspension bridges.
Shodoshima Olive Ropeway
On Shodoshima Island, in Kagawa, the Shodoshima Olive Ropeway connects the base to Kankakei Park, famous for its dramatic rock formations. “Shodoshima” means “Island of Shodo,” while “Olive” reflects the strong tradition of olive cultivation in the region.
Takamatsu Ropeway
Located in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, this cable car is less known but essential for connecting rural areas to local mountain trails. “Takamatsu” means “Tall Pine,” highlighting the natural vegetation that covers the nearby slopes.
Nokogiriyama Ropeway
On the Bōsō Peninsula, in Chiba, the Nokogiriyama Ropeway connects visitors to Mount Nokogiri, famous for its rock formations that resemble saw teeth. The name “Nokogiriyama” means “Saw Mountain,” referring to the peculiar shape of the terrain. From the top, there are stunning views of Tokyo Bay.
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