SORA terrace — Restaurant in Yamanouchi

It was described on their website and also here that business hours is until 7PM, (last trip of gondola return ride). However, we went there on a Thursday, went up the gondola at 5:40PM, and at 6PM, you can't order any food anymore at the cafe, except some drinks, and I was told that I could drink till the store's closing time of 7PM. However, all customers except us went down the 6:20PM gondola (each trip is 20minutes apart), then when we noticed it's only us who were left, we rode the 6:40PM return gondola, and the restaurant's staff also rode down with us. Upon reaching the station, reception windows were already closed then upon disembarking, the staff turned off all the lights and the gondola itself. It was 6:50PM, and everything was shut off and staff went home. I guess they don't have to be open if there's no more customers, so it's better to change the business hours to until 6PM (instead of 7PM, at least on Thursdays). Nevertheless, we were lucky to have seen the sun setting beneath the clouds as we were going up the gondola and for a good 20minutes upon reaching the summit. It's just disappointing to not have eaten nor drunk anything that night. I guess the sunset and night sky would be best seen if you time your visit on days that they have starry night cruise package (it's supposed to be until past 8, including food and drinks at the cafe). I will surely be going back for another experience, hopefully during autumn when I expect to see various colors of the vegetation depending on...

The Sora Terrace atop the Ryuo Ski Resort offers breathtaking views amidst the snow-covered landscape. Accessible via a short snow buggy ride after purchasing a lift ticket, the journey to the terrace is as enjoyable as the destination itself. The staff’s assistance during the buggy ride and boarding of the ropeway adds to the seamless experience.

Speaking of the ropeway, it’s indeed impressive in size, accommodating a large number of visitors with scheduled trips every 20 minutes. The journey up provides panoramic views that are simply awe-inspiring, making the ascent a memorable part of the visit.

Once at the Sora Terrace, the winter vistas are nothing short of magnificent, although be prepared for the chilly temperatures. While the lunchtime rush can make it crowded, it’s understandable given its popularity among skiers and snowboarders. The food selection, while varied, doesn’t offer anything particularly exceptional.

Overall, the Sora Terrace is a must-visit for its stunning views and convenient access, but perhaps manage your expectations when it comes to the...

Sora Terrace Cafe is situated at a height of 1770 meters. There is a free shuttle service from Yudanaka station from 0900 at an interval of 30mins. It takes about 20 mins to each the Information Center. From here you can take a snowcat ( if there are sufficient snow ) or another free shuttle to the ropeway. It cost 2500 Yen for a return trip on the rope for an adult. The duration is about 20 mins to the top. Even with a crowds at the doorway station, it only take a while as the ropeway car can take up to a 100 ppl! The view from the top is fantastic, overlooking the surrounding mountain and valley below. Didn't witness the sea of cloud, you would have to be lucky! Sora Terrace Cafe is next to the station. They served hot food, drink and small bites. It offer a panoramic view from the cafe. Opening hours during winter are from...