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
-
1
INDEN-YA: An Over 400-year-old Crafts Business
Yamanashi - Sponsored -
2
Takaharu: Where Legends, Culture, and Nature Coexist
Miyazaki - Sponsored -
3
World Theatre Festival Shizuoka 2025: Where the City Becomes the Stage
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
4
Gyukatsu and Art Unite at Expo 2025
Osaka -
5
Cherry Blossoms, Onsen, and Tochigi Cuisine in Oku-Nikko
Accommodation - Sponsored -
6
Cherry Blossoms and Tuna Gourmet in Nachikatsuura
Wakayama - Sponsored -
7
Kamenoi Hotel Nikko Yunishigawa: An All-Inclusive Resort
Tochigi - Sponsored -
8
Hello Kitty Takes Over Oita Airport For Expo 2025
Oita -
9
Explore the Women’s Pavilion at Expo 2025
Osaka -
10
Create Your Own Adventure in Uchiko, Ehime Prefecture
Ehime - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3
Meguro River Cherry Blossom Festival
Tokyo -
4
Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival
Tokyo -
5
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
6
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
7
May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
9
Kanamara Penis Festival
Kanagawa -
10
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture
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!