Cover photo by AO
The color of the sky, the angle of light, the flow of clouds, and the seasonal hues—all of these change moment by moment, creating landscapes that will never appear the same way twice. The higher you climb, the more breathtaking the views become, offering dramatic scenes that compel you to press the shutter. Across Japan, there are countless mountains that you’ll want to capture through your lens.
This time, we’ve carefully selected stunning spots that are both beginner-friendly and rewarding for photography. Get inspired to grab your camera and head to the mountains!
A Treasure Trove of Seasonal Mountain Beauty: Yatsugatake
Photo by Yuichi Masuda
The Yatsugatake mountain range offers dramatic scenery throughout the seasons. From Yokodake, you can view Akadake and Amidadake, which transform beautifully from spring’s snowmelt to autumn’s vibrant foliage. At altitudes above the tree line, the open mountain slopes and skies provide great freedom for composition. Right after the snow melts, you can capture striking contrasts between coniferous trees and rocky surfaces.
A Paradise of Stars and Mountains: Senjojiki Cirque
Photo by Ohama
Located in the Central Alps, Senjojiki Cirque is easily accessible via a ropeway that takes you over 2,600 meters above sea level. Summer brings alpine flowers, autumn offers vibrant foliage, and winter showcases snowy landscapes, making it a year-round haven for photographers. For nighttime photography, balancing the silhouettes of mountains with the starry sky is key. For astrophotography, a faint blue background can create a dreamy effect.
Hidden Drama in a Small Mountain: Kentokusan
Photo by Yui
Around Tsukimi Rock and the Kogen Hut, you may encounter deer running across grasslands or see Mount Fuji floating above a sea of clouds. Despite its modest size, Kentokusan offers a wealth of subjects, making it ideal for telephoto and macro photography. Early mornings are particularly rewarding, with soft light perfect for backlit or translucent compositions. It’s also a great mountain for beginners to practice hiking.
Chasing the Great Mountain Range Across the Sea: Tateyama Range
Photo by Jonaka
The view of the Tateyama Range across Toyama Bay is unparalleled. From Amaharashi Coast or Shinminato Fishing Port, you can capture the combination of snowy peaks and sailing ships in winter. During sunrise and sunset, the sky and sea are painted in vibrant colors, highlighting the mountain contours. Use a tripod and ND filter for long-exposure shots to create a magical atmosphere.
The Harmony of Silence and Symmetry: Aoni District, Hakuba Village
Photo by takigawa_kris_s
Photographing the water mirror effect in the rice paddies of Aoni District, with the Northern Alps in the background, is best done on windless early mornings. In spring, the contrast between snow-capped mountains and fresh greenery is stunning, and symmetrical compositions shine. Checking weather, wind speed, and remaining snow conditions in advance is crucial, as the perfect conditions are fleeting and rare.
A Burst of Color in Volcanic Terrain: Mount Eboshi, Aso
From late May, the blooming Miyama Kirishima azaleas paint the slopes of Mount Eboshi in vibrant pink. Combined with Aso’s vast caldera, you can create photos with an incredible sense of scale. Experiment with telephoto lenses to compress the density of flowers or use drones for aerial compositions—there are endless creative possibilities.
The Dance of Sunrise and Sea of Clouds: Mount Yufu
Photo by ICHIHO
Encircling the Yufuin Basin, Mount Yufu is a popular spot for photography from Sagiridai or Jagoshi Observatory. In winter, the combination of frost-covered trees, snow-capped peaks, and a sea of clouds creates an ethereal scene reminiscent of traditional Japanese paintings. With its convenient access from the station, it’s perfect for early-morning photography trips.
