Mt. Tengu (Tenguyama)

The basics

The most popular way to reach the summit of Mt. Tengu is by taking the Tenguyama Ropeway. You can enjoy the views going up the mountain, which takes about 5 minutes, and then from the observation point at the top. You’ll also find a gift shop, restaurant, ski museum, bobsled track, and a shrine. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike to the top of the mountain or follow the short, forested hiking path at the top of Mt. Tengu.

Sightseeing tours of Otaru often include a trip up the mountain via the ropeway; in the winter, snowshoeing tours are also available.

Things to know before you go

• Children ride the ropeway for half the adult ticket price.

• The ropeway typically runs every 12 minutes.

• The summit is generally wheelchair accessible.

How to get there

Buses leave from JR Otaru station and the Otaru Canal bus terminal, and take about 15 minutes to reach Tenguyama, which is the final stop. In the evening, from the end of April to the start of November, you can take the Otaru Nightview Shuttle Bus, which leaves from the Otaru Grand Park Hotel.

When to get there

The best time to visit Mt. Tengu is in the evening, when you can see the city of Otaku lit up after dark; the Tengusan shrine at the summit is also especially beautiful at this time, when it’s lit by lanterns. The ropeway typically runs from early morning until late evening.

Tengu masks

At the summit of the mountain you can visit the Tengu-no-Yakata, a museum that displays a large number of tengu masks from around the country. Bearing red faces with angry expressions and long noses, tengu masks are used in Noh perfomances and Shinto festivals. They’re also thought to frighten bad spirits and bring good luck, and are often seen as representing guardians of the mountains.