The “Road to the Sky,” also known as the “Road to Heaven” (天に続く道), begins at its official Start Point located in Minehama, Shari Town, Hokkaido. This iconic viewpoint marks the beginning of a stunning 28-kilometer stretch of perfectly straight road that appears to rise into the sky, creating a dramatic and surreal scene. The Start Point features a small wooden platform with a playful signboard and a limited parking area with around nine spaces. While there are no restrooms on site, the spot is open at all hours and provides one of the best angles to capture the illusion of the road meeting the heavens.
Just a short 15-minute drive from JR Shiretoko-Shari Station, it’s easily accessible and a popular photo spot for drivers, bikers, and photographers. From here, visitors can continue on to the nearby observatory or stop by a small café further along the road. It’s recommended to visit early in the morning or during off-peak hours to enjoy the view without crowds and to drive cautiously, as the road can be...
Read moreWelcome to heaven cafe 🤣 amused by this sign board. You can still grab a drink here even in the winter cold on feb.
Seems like during non winter months you can climb to the observation deck for a better view of the sea.
The drift ice have just came to the area about 2 days back and is still visible in the background of the video.
On a good day like this you can see the mt kounabetsu on the side as well.
Do check out the end point for some great photos but its abit of a drive down. -End of the road...
Read more「天に続く道」は、まさに名前の通り、空へと吸い込まれていくような一直線の道。斜里町の丘陵地帯を貫く約28kmの道は、夕暮れ時になると空とアスファルトが溶け合い、まるで“地球と宇宙の境界”に立っているような感覚になる。 特に夕陽が沈む時間帯は、オレンジ色の光が道を照らし、遠くに知床連山のシルエットが浮かび上がる。車を止めて、ただその景色を眺めるだけで、旅の疲れも心のざわめきもすっと消えていく。北海道の広さと静けさを体感できる、まさに“心が空にほどける道”でした。
The “Road to the Sky” in Shari, Hokkaido, is a breathtaking stretch of highway that seems to rise straight into the heavens. Spanning nearly 28 kilometers, this scenic route offers a surreal experience—especially at sunset, when the sky glows orange and the road becomes a glowing ribbon leading into the horizon. With the silhouette of the Shiretoko mountains in the distance and the vast silence of Hokkaido all around, it’s a place where time slows down. Whether driving or simply standing still, the view evokes a sense of peace and wonder. It’s not just a road—it’s a moment of connection between...
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