Just a short drive up the road from the monastic temple complex of Mount Koya lies the Gomasan Sky Tower. Although this tall observation tower is closed from December until the beginning of March, intrepid visitors (snow tires or chains a must) can still use the parking area as a jumping off point for exploring the surroundings. You don't have to go far to appreciate the iced-over tree branches, the snowy fields, or the stunning views over central Wakayama's mountain ranges, including nearby Mt Gomadan.
- 1 min read
Winter Views in Wakayama
Snow and ice near Mt Gomadan
By Mandy Bartok
Community writer
Join the discussion
Alena Eckelmann
3 years ago
In winter the Koya-Ryujin Skyline, which connects Koyasan with Ryujin Onsen via the Gomadan Mountain with the Gomadan Tower, is officially closed. Anyone who ignores the warning signs and drives along this route is at risk of not being found for some time in case of an emergency.
The "short drive" is actually 30km, which usually takes 40 minutes but definitely longer in deep winter as this road is not well serviced and snow can pile up high. Hence, it is not recommended to drive this way!
The "short drive" is actually 30km, which usually takes 40 minutes but definitely longer in deep winter as this road is not well serviced and snow can pile up high. Hence, it is not recommended to drive this way!
Jerome Lee
10 years ago
Wow...this is simply amazing. Great photos Mandy!
Thanks, Jerome! I'm lucky to have friends who lived in Wakayama who insisted on driving me up to the lookout last weekend. The views are superb.
Justin Velgus
10 years ago
Very nice indeed!
Takako Sakamoto
10 years ago
Wow! How beautiful Mandy! Great jobヽ(^o^)丿
Thanks Takako! Living down here in Kyushu, I do get very excited to experience true winter weather. :)
Cathy Cawood
10 years ago
I see you found some snow, Mandy! Great Photos!
I did indeed, Cathy ... it at least assuaged my snow craving somewhat!
8 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
2Exploring Japan Through the Seasons: Three First-Time Classic Tours
Culture -
3An Immersive Look Into Akita’s Food Heritage
Akita - Sponsored -
4See Southern Japan with Kirishima As Your Gateway
Kagoshima - Sponsored -
5Ultimate Japan Car Culture Journey - From Auto Salon 2026 to the Open Road
Chiba -
6A Journey Through Western Kyushu
Nagasaki - Sponsored -
7Spa Resort Hawaiians: A Tropical Escape with a Japanese Soul in Iwaki
Fukushima - Sponsored -
8A Taste of Shiga at COCOSHIGA
Tokyo - Sponsored -
9Discover Shiga Prefecture: Events at COCOSHIGA in Tokyo
Tokyo - Sponsored -
10A Hidden Getaway in Yaizu, Shizuoka
Shizuoka - Sponsored
-
1Tokyo Christmas Market
Tokyo -
2Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
3The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5Shibuya Blue Cave Illumination
Tokyo -
6Nabana no Sato Illumination
Mie -
7Winter in Japan: Your Seasonal Guide
Planning -
8Bad Bunny Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour
Tokyo -
9Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
10Tokyo Auto Salon
Chiba
The "short drive" is actually 30km, which usually takes 40 minutes but definitely longer in deep winter as this road is not well serviced and snow can pile up high. Hence, it is not recommended to drive this way!