Plenty of night view spots that color the night of Mie Prefecture! A hearty selection of 5!

Mie Prefecture, with its long north-south shape, offers nightscapes that vary by region. There are viewing spots scattered all over, making it quite intriguing. Also, Yokkaichi is home to one of Japan’s five great factory night views. In particular, the Yokkaichi Industrial Complex offers a breathtaking panoramic view of large-scale night scenery. In this article, we introduce several recommended night view spots in Mie Prefecture.

1. Night View of Yokkaichi Industrial Complex

The night view of the Yokkaichi Industrial Complex can be enjoyed from many spots such as the Shiohama area, Umiterasu 14 area, Kasumigaura Green Park area, Yokkaichi Port area, and Taisho Bridge. While all are worth visiting, this time we’ll focus on the highly recommended Umiterasu 14 area and the Yokkaichi Industrial Complex Night Cruise.

1-1. Umiterasu 14

The Yokkaichi Port Building stands 14 stories tall at Yokkaichi Port. Located at the heart of the Yokkaichi Industrial Complex, this spot allows visitors to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the overwhelming industrial landscape right in front of them.

From the observation and exhibition room on the 14th floor, "Umiterasu 14", you can witness the powerful night view of the industrial complex—sure to leave you amazed. This building is also a sacred ground for night view photographers from all over Japan. It was certified as a Japan Night View Heritage site (Facility-type Night View Heritage) in 2015.

1-2. Yokkaichi Industrial Complex Night Cruise

At Yokkaichi Port, there is the "Yokkaichi Industrial Complex Night Cruise". This tour lets you enjoy one of Japan’s top factory night views from the sea. It runs almost year-round and is a popular cruise, a highlight of Yokkaichi tourism. The massive industrial complex stretches along the coastline, offering a dramatically different view from the sea compared to land.

There are three plans: a 60-minute course (Daini Shihokaze, capacity 35), a 90-minute course (Meitetsu Marine Sightseeing Boat Hayabusa, capacity 125), and a special 60-minute cruise (Hayabusa). Group charter cruises are also available. The tour is guided by volunteer guides who are former employees of the complex. As the operation period is limited, please be sure to check the website. Free shuttle buses are available from Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station and JR Yokkaichi Station.

2. Nabana no Sato

Located in Kuwana City, the botanical garden "Nabana no Sato" hosts one of Japan’s largest night illuminations. It runs from October through May each year, using an enormous number of bulbs and LEDs. The displays are themed and include water illumination and a sea of clouds made of light.

Among them, the 300-meter-long tunnel of light is a visitor favorite. Recognized as one of the world’s most beautiful sights, it offers a fully immersive light experience. It amazes and moves countless tourists. There are also restaurants, hot springs, and observation decks, making it a great spot to enjoy all day long.

3. Mount Gozaisho Summit Park

Mount Gozaisho, located in Komono Town, stands at an altitude of 1,212 meters and is selected as one of Japan’s 200 famous mountains. It’s also known as a spot for serious mountain climbing. You can reach the summit via the Gozaisho Ropeway. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of Kuwana, Nagoya, Ise Bay, and the Suzuka region.

The illuminated frost-covered trees and icefalls in winter are magical and beautiful. Night operations are only held on weekends during winter, so if you get the chance, be sure to visit. There is also a ski area at "Mount Gozaisho Summit Park", so it’s a great idea to visit after skiing.

4. Night Views inside Nagashima Spa Land

Opened in 1966, "Nagashima Spa Land" is a massive amusement park in Kuwana City. It features the largest thrill rides in western Japan, massive roller coasters, a jumbo pool, day-use hot springs, hotels, and even the Mitsui Outlet Mall inside the park.

At night, the park’s roller coasters are lit up, and the illuminated landscape offers a surreal, otherworldly view. Every August, about five fireworks shows are held as annual events. Spend the whole day enjoying "Nagashima Spa Land", and in the evening, bask in the dazzling illumination and night scenery.

5. Mount Asama Observatory

Mount Asama, standing at 555 meters above sea level, is located along the Ise-Shima Skyline. From the summit’s "Mount Asama Observatory", you can enjoy panoramic views of Ise-Shima and Ise Bay. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji. Soak your feet in the footbath at the 500-meter summit while gazing at Toba City, islands in Ise Bay, and the distant Atsumi Peninsula night view.

Mount Asama is also long known as a famous sunrise viewing spot. During the New Year’s first sunrise, many tourists visit. Enjoy the night scenery from the heavens and challenge yourself to witness the first sunrise of the year.

◎ Summary

The "Yokkaichi Industrial Complex Night View" features a distinctive beauty with inorganic tanks, chimneys, and piping structures intricately lined up. The night views of "Nabana no Sato" and "Nagashima Spa Land" in Kuwana City are grand and overwhelming in scale. "Mount Gozaisho" and "Mount Asama" offer beautiful natural nightscapes. Be sure to enjoy the captivating night views of Mie Prefecture!

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