April 26th (Sat) - September 28th (Sun) 9:00-19:00
September 29th (Monday) - November 3rd (Monday/Holiday) 9:00-18:00
*The last ropeway trip up is at 18:40/17:40 (20 minutes before the end of the tour).
*On days when the SORA terrace morning service is available, the ropeway will operate from 8:00.
*On the days when the starry sky night cruise is held, the ropeway will operate until 9:00 p.m.
To reach the Ryuo Mountain Resort Ropeway, you can travel by car or public transport. If driving, there are parking facilities available at the resort. For public transport, take the train to Nagano Station, then transfer to a local train line (e.g., Nagano Electric Railway) to Yudanaka Station. From Yudanaka Station, seasonal shuttle buses or local buses typically operate to the resort area, which includes the ropeway base station. Always check the latest bus schedules for accurate timings.
The Ryuo Mountain Resort Ropeway is renowned for being one of the world's largest, capable of accommodating up to 166 passengers in a single cabin. This impressive capacity allows for efficient transport and ensures a comfortable journey for many visitors at once. The ride itself offers a scenic 10-minute aerial journey, providing breathtaking panoramic views as you ascend the mountain, making it a memorable part of the overall resort experience.
SORA terrace is located at the summit of Ryuo Mountain Resort and is primarily accessed by taking the Ryuo Mountain Resort Ropeway. After obtaining your ropeway ticket, you will board the large gondola at the base station. The ropeway ride takes approximately 10 minutes, transporting you directly to the SORA terrace area, where you can then step out to enjoy the views and facilities.
SORA terrace at Ryuo Mountain Resort is situated at a magnificent altitude of approximately 1,770 meters (around 5,800 feet) above sea level. This high elevation is a significant aspect of its appeal, as it provides expansive, clear views of the surrounding landscape and creates the ideal environmental conditions for natural phenomena such as the sea of clouds.
Yes, pets are welcome on the Ryuo Mountain Resort Ropeway. This makes it a convenient destination for visitors who wish to bring their furry companions along to explore the mountain scenery and experience the SORA terrace. It is generally recommended to keep pets on a leash or in a carrier and to ensure they do not disturb other guests during your visit.
SORA terrace offers a unique "Starry Sky Night Cruise" event for evening visitors during specific periods. This special activity allows guests to gaze upon the magnificent starry sky from the high altitude, offering an exceptionally clear and unobstructed celestial view. For a truly luxurious experience, visiting before sunset allows you to witness the beautiful transition from a vibrant sunset to a stunning night full of stars.
Witnessing the sea of clouds from SORA terrace largely depends on specific weather conditions. It typically requires high humidity, calm winds, and a temperature inversion, often occurring after rainfall or during clear mornings that follow a cloudy night. The early morning hours, shortly after sunrise, are generally considered the most favorable, but late afternoon can also present opportunities. It is highly recommended to check local weather forecasts on your visiting day for the best chance of experiencing this breathtaking phenomenon.
From the Ryuo Mountain Resort Ropeway and SORA terrace, visitors are treated to expansive panoramic views of the entire Nagano Prefecture, including vast mountain ranges and the Shinshu plains. The high altitude of 1,770 meters ensures a sweeping, unobstructed vista in nearly all directions. On days with ideal weather conditions, a spectacular "sea of clouds" often forms below, creating an ethereal and unforgettable landscape.